The Foster Files - Stories about Animal Rescue and Welfare

This week's episode is a conversation Kelly had on the podcast, Beyond Compassion Fatigue: Make Your Passion for Helping Animals Sustainable with Jennifer Blough. This time she's the one being interviewed about the way she and her husband approach fostering, setting boundaries, and maintaining her sanity in animal welfare. You can find Jennifer's podcast and website below!  Beyond C...

Kelly dives into the rapid temperature rise inside vehicles—just five minutes in an 85-degree day can turn a car into an oven dangerous enough to cause heatstroke or death. She reveals how even tinted windows and open vents do little to slow the deadly heat. But more than that, she unpacks the specifics of Pennsylvania’s Libre’s Law, explaining crucial regulations that every animal advocate must u...

This solo episode uncovers the often-overlooked impacts of foster language on morale, public perception, and animal welfare. Kelly shares powerful insights from her own experiences and discusses common phrases like "keeping them" or "giving them up" that may reinforce guilt and confusion. You'll discover practical alternatives—like asking “what's the best home for thi...

The tragic death of a carriage horse in Central Park has ignited a fire under the fight to end NYC's horse-drawn industry—and the stakes couldn’t be higher. With footage of the heartbreaking incident circulating widely, the urgent question is: how many more lives must be lost before decisive action is taken? In this gripping episode, Kelly sits down with Julie Cappiello, president of Voters f...

Most animal shelters are caught in a cycle of tragedy and miscommunication—until now. Tawny Hammond, Director of No Kill Advancement at Best Friends Animal Society, unveils a revolutionary approach that’s transforming shelters into lifesaving havens. With her unique background in public service and community wellness, Tawny shares how shifting the narrative around "no kill" and embracing...

Recorded at the "Paws and Pints" event in Oakmont, Pennsylvania, it features interviews with representatives from various rescue organizations, including Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh, Biggie's Bullies, Animal Protectors of Allegheny Valley, and Cross Your Paws. The episode highlights the stories of adoptable dogs and the efforts of these organizations to find them loving homes...

Most of us are unknowingly supporting a billion-dollar industry that's devastating the planet, exploiting countless animals, and harming human health — but Cameron Harsh reveals how a shift in awareness and action can tip the scales toward compassion and sustainability. In this eye-opening episode, Cameron, Interim Executive Director of World Animal Protection, pulls back the curtain on the d...

When it comes to protecting animals, having the right legal foundation can be the game-changer your organization needs—but most nonprofits are flying blind when it comes to navigating regulations, governance, and funding challenges. Jaclyn Leeds, Executive Director of the Animal Defense Partnership, reveals how free legal services are empowering hundreds of animal nonprofits across the United Stat...

Nick Pisciottano is a dedicated Pennsylvania state senator and animal advocate committed to bipartisan progress on animal welfare. His insights illuminate the often-hidden legislative process, empowering everyday advocates to be part of meaningful change. Perfect for animal rescuers, pet lovers, or anyone frustrated by the slow pace of reform—this episode shows you how your voice matters more than...

Most people don’t realize that investing in prevention and retention can drastically reduce the number of animals entering shelters—and save lives. Kimmi Rasky shares her inspiring journey from fostering to building innovative programs that focus on keeping pets out of shelters altogether. If you’ve ever wondered how focusing on prevention, like accessible spay/neuter initiatives and community tra...

Join Kelly as she explores the fascinating world of gray wolves and wolf dogs at the Wolf Sanctuary of PA. Michelle Vanderneut shares incredible stories about wolf reintroduction, the importance of respecting their wild instincts, and the challenges of managing a sanctuary dedicated solely to rescue and conservation. You'll learn how wolves influence ecosystems — from controlling overpopulati...

Most pet owners underestimate how quickly an incident can escalate when safety isn't a top priority. In this episode of The Foster Files, Kelly exposes the unseen risks that can turn a routine walk or playtime into tragedy—and what every animal lover needs to know to protect their furry friends. Subscribe to my Newsletter:  https://the-foster-files-podcast.kit.com/220e069679 https://linktr.ee...

Most kids are bored easily—and that's a problem for dogs and responsible pet ownership. But what if a subscription box could transform the way children connect with their furry friends? Enter Pup O'Clock, a revolutionary program that turns responsibility into an engaging, educational adventure for kids aged K-8. Founder Brian Manni reveals how his innovative boxes combine fun, learning,...

Suzanne Gonzalez, president and co-founder of PAVFA, uncovers the nonprofit's innovative approach to reforming animal welfare through policy and politics. She shares how they’re leveraging bipartisan efforts, educational webinars, and direct engagement with voters to influence legislation like Victoria’s Law and the banning of wildlife killing contests. You'll learn about the strategic q...

Reptiles are more than just misunderstood creatures — they’re fascinating, social, and full of mysteries waiting to be uncovered. Jesse Rothacker of Forgotten Friend Reptile Sanctuary shares stories that will change how you see these often-misjudged animals — from a giant alligator surprisingly befriending his tank mates, to the secret social lives of snakes and lizards, and how reptiles actually...

Most of us overlook the emotional complexity behind veterinary care—and that sacrosanct image of vets as heroes masks the human, loving, sometimes imperfect beings they truly are. Patti Eddington, a veterinarian’s wife and author of Don't Look in the Freezer , pulls back the curtain to reveal the raw, honest truth about life in animal rescue, the cost of caring, and the unbreakable human-anim...

This week the organization I work with lost an important member to suicide. This episode about Compassion Fatigue with Jennifer Blough is a great listen and can help you learn the tools you need to protect yourself in this hard and demanding work. Take care of yourself as you take care of animals.   Jennifer Blough | Compassion Fatigue Help for Animal Welfare Professionals To Save a Starfish: A Co...

Most animal advocates focus solely on habitats and laws — but understanding how political change happens can turn passion into real victories. In this episode, Ali Feldman Taylor, founder of Voters for Animal Rights, reveals the secret strategies behind passing impactful legislation with limited resources—and how anyone can become a powerful advocate for animal welfare. From her journey working on...

In this heartfelt episode, Kelly is joined by Kayla Powers, a passionate animal foster in Asheville, North Carolina, who shares her journey, honest insights into rescue life, and practical tips for fostering and advocating for animals. They explore the emotional highs and lows of rescue work, the importance of protecting mental health, and how to foster a positive, supportive community. ADOPT A DO...

Most of what threatens sea turtles today comes down to human impact — but what if your small daily choices could make a BIG difference? In this eye-opening episode, Bette Zirkelbach, General Manager of the Turtle Hospital in the Florida Keys, reveals how everyday actions can protect one of the oldest and most beloved animals on Earth. From cutting plastic waste to understanding critical legislatio...

Pets for Vets Founder and CEO, Clarissa Black, tells Kelly about the important work they're doing to connect shelter pets and veterans across the country. Through intentional training they help veterans form a SuperBond with their pets so they can support each other for life. Pets For Vets Clarissa Black Foster Spotlight: Gucci – Foothills Animal Shelter Subscribe to my Newsletter:  https://t...

In this episode of The Foster Files, host Kelly speaks with Debbie Bauer, a holistic behavior and wellness coach specializing in blind and deaf dogs. They discuss Debbie's journey into dog training, the unique challenges faced by blind and deaf dogs, and effective training methods.  Dog Trainer | Your Inner Dog ARMA’s Aussies | Aussie Rescue of the Mid-Atlantic Emmie - Adoptable Pet | Petfind...

In this short, solo episode Kelly talks about the common objections rescue and shelter volunteers get when encouraging adoption and what resources they can point to in order to overcome them. Adopt a Dog, Cat, or Other Pet Near You Today | Petfinder | Petfinder Foster Spotlight: Kiki - Adoptable Pet | Petfinder | Petfinder Subscribe to my Newsletter:  https://the-foster-files-podcast.kit.com/220e0...

In this episode of The Foster Files Kelly talks to Licensed Professional Counselor and Author, Jennifer Blough about compassion fatigue in animal rescue and animal welfare.  Jennifer Blough | Compassion Fatigue Help for Animal Welfare Professionals To Save a Starfish: A Compassion Fatigue Workbook for the Animal Welfare Warrior: Blough LPC, Jennifer A.: 9798377446132: Amazon.com: Books Foster Spot...

Has anyone every told you that no matter how much they walk their dog it's still crazy? Have you spent hours playing fetch, just to have your dog still be wild when you get inside? Brandon from Run Buddy Austin explains to Kelly just how important their dog gyms are for the dogs of the Phoenix and Austin areas. In addition to partnering with animal rescues to exercise shelter dogs, they'...