Animal Posse

This week on the show, we're talking about two groundbreaking programs that are changing the game for animal rescue. We sit down with Finnegan Dowling of Mutual Rescue to learn all about the Language Accessibility and Doggie Day Out initiatives.

The Language Accessibility program helps connect non-English speaking families with adoptable pets, while the Doggie Day Out initiative gives shelter dogs a much-needed break from the kennel...

In part two of her powerful conversation with Dixie, Ashley Gardenier, founder of Southern Paws Inc., continues her deep dive into the South's animal welfare crisis. She highlights a crucial, often overlooked solution: dog training.

Ashley explains how training isn't just about teaching a dog to "sit" or "stay"; it's a vital tool for preventing dogs from being surrendered to already overcrowded shelters. By addressing behavioral iss...

Dixie welcomes Ashley Gardenier, founder of Southern Paws Inc., for a powerful conversation about the deepening animal welfare crisis in the South. Ashley shares how a trip to Louisiana nearly 11 years ago opened her eyes to the stark differences in pet culture and shelter conditions compared to the North—where dogs are often treated as family, not just property. From overwhelmed shelters and high euthanasia rates to pandemic-era b...

In this week's episode, we sit down with Erin and Cori Caimi and they talk about the cats that have made a sprawling, abandoned shopping mall their home. We explore the complex world of caring for a large colony of feral cats—a task that is as challenging as it is rewarding.

From implementing a rigorous "Trap-Neuter-Return" (TNR) program to ensure the colony's health and prevent overpopulation, to providing daily food, fresh water, ...

Animal rescue advocate Sydney deVictoria Michel shares their journey that began with a "temporary foster" turning into a long-term commitment. This episode explores the difference in animal welfare between the North and South, highlighting the challenges of overcrowded shelters and cultural attitudes toward spaying and neutering. Sydney recounts experiences from working with local rescues and discusses the work of doing dog assessm...

In this heartwarming and eye-opening episode, we sit down with Leslie Poole, director of PetFBI.org, a nonprofit organization dedicated to reuniting lost pets with their families across the United States. Leslie shares the origin story of PetFBI.org and the powerful role technology and community play in bringing beloved animals home.

🐾 From tips on what to do when your pet goes missing, to stories of incredible reunions, Leslie off...

In this episode,Dixie sits down with Jonathan from Rescue Alliance, a Louisiana-based nonprofit committed to feline welfare. You'll hear Jonathan's inspiring story of how a single act of cruelty motivated him to start a rescue, and how that small beginning has grown into an organization that has saved hundreds of cats and implemented a wide range of life-saving programs.

Join us as we discuss:

• The Louisiana Pet Food Bank, which h...

Healing Broken Hearts Rescue founder, Dezzie Howe, joins us to discuss her revolutionary approach to animal rescue. In this episode, Dezzie shares how her organization operates without cages, allowing dogs to live in a communal, home-like environment. She explains how this method fosters healing and prepares dogs for their forever homes. Dezzie also delves into her vision for the future of animal shelters, advocating for a shift fr...

In this episode of Animal Posse, Dixie speaks with Jeanette Garlow from MicrochipHelp.com and Lost Dogs of Illinois about the critical role of microchipping in pet recovery. Jeanette shares expert insights on why microchips fail, how to track down chip data, and what steps to take the moment a pet goes missing. Whether you're a seasoned rescuer or a concerned pet parent, this episode arms you with the tools to turn heartbreak into ...

Join us for Part 2 of our conversation with Lisa Krohn from New Orleans Bulldog Rescue as we discuss TNR and uncover the dedicated efforts involved in getting a foster dog adoption-ready. From essential training and socialization to understanding individual personalities and addressing specific needs, you'll hear firsthand how Lisa assess, nurture, and prepare their charges for a successful transition into a new home. This episode ...

Join us for a heartwarming episode as we sit down with Lisa Krohn from New Orleans Bulldog Rescue! Lisa pulls back the curtain on the daily operations of this incredible organization, sharing invaluable insights into the unique needs of bulldogs and the profound impact they have on these lovable pups and the wider community.

From their adoption process to fundraising efforts and some truly unforgettable rescue stories, you'll get ...

Pet parents, ever wish you had a vet's wisdom on speed dial for those "what if" moments? In this vital episode, Dr. Charlotte Milazzo empowers you with essential pet first aid knowledge. Discover the fundamental "ABCs" of pet emergencies, learn how to manage common issues like profuse vomiting (and why less is often more!), and understand the nuanced dangers of ingested toxins from plants to medications and xylitol. We also cover p...

Are you ready to make a life-saving difference for the most vulnerable felines? In this essential episode, we're bringing you a special segment recorded live from a recent kitten fostering and bottle feeding class taught by me, your host and founder of the Unwanted Feline Organization.

If you've ever dreamed of opening your home to orphaned or simply want to be better prepared for "kitten season," this episode is for you. We dive ...

Step inside the incredible world of animal rescue with our latest episode! We sit down with Jessica Vaccaro, the dedicated Shelter Manager at Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO), to uncover the inspiring work they do every single day. From heartwarming adoption stories to the challenging realities of running a no-kill shelter in our community. Learn about ARNO's mission, their tireless efforts to care for abandoned and homeless animal...

Join us for a crucial conversation with Rachel Goyette from the Jefferson SPCA as we delve into an often-misunderstood topic: spaying pregnant cats and dogs. In this eye-opening episode, Rachel shares vital information on how this procedure plays a significant role in combating pet overpopulation, reducing the strain on shelters, and ultimately creating a healthier community for our beloved animals. Learn about the benefits and imp...

We sit down with Tiffany Smith from the Washington Humane Society in Washington Parish, Louisiana, to explore the vital services they provide.

Join us as Tiffany shares an inside look at the challenges and triumphs of animal rescue, focusing on their crucial spay/neuter initiatives, vaccination programs, and other essential efforts that are making a tangible difference in the lives of animals and residents across Washington Parish....

Losing a beloved pet is terrifying—but knowing what to do immediately can make all the difference. In this episode of Animal Posse, we sit down with Carmen Brothers of Professional Pet Trackers to explore the ins and outs of finding lost pets, using expert tracking methods, and avoiding common mistakes that delay recovery.

What You’ll Learn:

The first critical steps when a pet goes missing

How scent trails help locate lost animal...

Thinking about getting a rabbit? Stop right there! This week, we have Donna Rome from BunnAgain Rabbit Rescue and Education to tell you why adoption is the only way to go. We break down the realities of rabbit care – it's more than just carrots! – and Donna passionately explains the urgent need to adopt, not buy, to help the countless rabbits waiting for their forever homes. Learn about their specific needs, their amazing personali...