Desmond's Army Podcast

SPECIAL GUEST: 👤 We're thrilled to welcome Stasia Dempster, CDBC — lead canine trainer, behaviorist, and founder of Synapse Canine Learning Center — as our special guest on Episode 9. EPISODE 9: 9️⃣ In this powerful and compassionate conversation, we dive deep into the complex, emotional, and misunderstood topic of behavioral euthanasia in dogs. We explore when severe, unmanageable aggression or...

📚 It's often overlooked, but one of the most powerful tools in preventing abuse is children's books that teach courage and awareness at a young age. Jackie Ford, a child advocate and social worker with over 30 years of experience, shares the inspiring story behind her new children's book, The Courage to Tell . This tender resource empowers kids to identify safe helpers, speak out against cruelty—...

Most legislation for animals gets caught up in complex politics — but what if your voice could actually change the game? In this episode, Joshua Levin, legislative advocacy manager for Connecticut Votes for Animals, reveals the behind-the-scenes strategies that are shaping real change at the Connecticut State Capitol. Discover how a single voice can make a difference to expand protections through...

Watch a new episode of the Desmond's Army Podcast! This is an impromptu episode where we talk about the responsibility associated with being an animal advocate and Desmond's Army member AND we discuss the responsibility that state and municipal officials have to do their jobs - which is increasingly falling on resource-strapped rescues. REMEMBER: If you like our content, email us about the show at...

In this episode of the Desmond's Army podcast, hosts Matt Caron and Zilla Cannamela discuss the complex and troubling case of Sarah Smolak, an individual charged with multiple counts of animal cruelty. The conversation delves into the rescue of a dog named Marshmallow, the subsequent investigation, and the broader implications for animal welfare and rescue practices. Michele Walsh from AMA Animal...

In this episode of the Desmond's Army podcast, host Matt Caron is joined by Zilla Canamella, the president of Desmond's Army, and attorney advocate Joyce Glass. They discuss the ongoing efforts in animal advocacy, particularly focusing on the implications of Desmond's Law, which aims to protect animals from cruelty and neglect. The conversation highlights the importance of data in understanding th...

In this episode 🎙️ of the Desmond's Army Podcast 🐾, host Matt Caron and Vice President Linda Pleva discuss various cases of animal cruelty and neglect, highlighting the urgent need for legislative changes in Connecticut ⚖️. They cover specific cases, including the abandonment of dogs Eeyore and Piglet, the opening of a controversial retail pet shop 🚫, and the tragic stories of Bambi and Bear, wh...

In this episode of the Desmond's Army podcast, President Zilla Cannamela, Vice President Linda Pleva and Host Matt Caron engage in a profound discussion with Phil Arkow, a leading figure in animal welfare. They explore the critical link between animal cruelty and domestic violence, emphasizing the need for legislative reforms, education, and collaboration among various agencies. Personal stories h...

Welcome to the Desmond's Army Podcast @DesmondsPodcast. This is Episode 1 featuring Desmond's Army President and Co-Founder Zilla Cannamela. We are discussing Desmond's Law, the beginnings of how Desmond's Army was formed, and all about our mission to keep #SpeekingForTheVoiceless. Please, LIKE, SHARE, COMMENT, SUBSCRIBE and contact us at desmondspodcast@gmail.com .