Kitticcino Charities provides low-cost veterinary services to under-served communities and rescue groups, in addition to providing employment opportunities for survivors of violent crimes and at-risk youths. Founders Breona and Rachel join me!  For more: https://www.kitticcino.org/

Rats! There is so much to know about them and my guest Niki is a Rat Extraordinaire!  For more on rats or to foster or adopt: [email protected]  

When an undercover animal abuse investigator with 20+ years of experience says something bothers him, you know it is legit. Many years ago, the practice of luring racing greyhounds with live rabbits was investigated and many swept the practice under the rug or claimed "it did not happen." Cue investigator Pete Paxton, who conducted an undercover investigation in partnership with Grey2k USA. What they found was beyond shocking and their investigation, with your help, will hopefully lead to a federal bill called the Greyhound Protection Act.  More here (NOTE: this is not for the faint of heart): https://miami.cbslocal.com/2020/07/26/a-culture-of-cruelty-an-exclusive-look-inside-the-secret-world-of-greyhound-training/

This podcast has always been about learning more about animals and to say this particular one opened up my eyes is an understatement. Cailen LaBarge is the Co-Founder of SEED: Strategies for Ethical and Environmental Development. Before the pandemic, they investigated a dairy auction in Texas that revealed far more than they expected. The findings, as shocking as they may be, are so important, especially in this day and age.  For more information: https://www.seedundercoverinvestigations.com/

"He came to the door naked with a gun. We ended up with 63 snakes."  Cindy Steinle has had a LOT of experience with reptiles and while many people may be nervous around them, Cindy shares some amazing reasons why we should embrace snakes, alligators and more.  For more information or ways that you can help:  www.chicagoherp.org https://www.facebook.com/smallscalereptilerescue/  

Molly Downing is the Recreation Coordinator at SEASPAR and created a Pawsitive Pet Therapy program that brings smiles to faces of the participants.  SEASPAR is committed to the mission of providing dynamic recreation programs and quality services for residents with disabilities. More here: SEASPAR.org

Rachel Jensen is the Founder of Pleasant Heart Pet Food Pantry in Michigan. As a former Animal Control Officer, she saw a need in her community and immediately went to work to help by building a non-profit.  https://www.pleasantheartspetfoodpantry.org/

I always believe people. I give them the benefit of the doubt. I am a helper. I run to the bad when others may be running away.  When I woke up on Sunday with overflowing email, I was like wow, this is great. Then I realized something was really wrong.  This is the story of a how a selfish company mysavings.com took advantage of a small 501c3 and has ZERO apologies or regrets for what they did. They have done irreparable damage during our busiest time of the season. 

Comfy Carepacks are given, free of charge, to benefit pets of individuals experiencing homelessness in the Los Angeles area. Vice President Deborah joins me to chat about this amazing organization. https://www.comfycarepacks.org/

When Carolyn Alonzo lost her beloved Obi in May of 2020, she immediately went to work creating "Obi's Pet Pantry." A story of love, hope and passion to help others. https://www.obispetpantry.org/