Keep it Humane

In this episode, we sit down with Friends of Animals to explore the wide-ranging work they’re doing to advocate for animals around the world.From their roots in low-cost spay and neuter to wildlife protection, animal law, habitat conservation, vegan advocacy, and sanctuary work, Friends of Animals has taken a unique approach to animal advocacy for more than 65 years.We talk about their work protecting wild horses and burros, fighting for threatened and endangered species, supporting chimpanzee sanctuaries, challenging policies through the courts, and finding new ways to create a better future for animals.It’s a fascinating conversation about animal advocacy that goes far beyond the traditional shelter and rescue model—and the many different ways people can make a difference for animals.

What happens when animal rescue becomes about more than just saving an animal?In this episode, we sit down with The Gentle Barn to talk about the incredible work happening at their sanctuaries in California and Tennessee. From rescuing animals from abuse, neglect, and situations where they might otherwise be euthanized, to creating unique programs that connect people with animals, The Gentle Barn is doing some truly amazing work.We talk about rescue, rehabilitation, animal sanctuary, education, Cow Hug Therapy®, working with children and vulnerable communities, emergency animal evacuations, and the powerful stories behind the animals who call The Gentle Barn home.It’s a fascinating conversation about what happens when animals are given a second chance—and how those animals can, in turn, help people heal.

What happens when a professional hockey team uses its platform to make a difference far beyond the ice?In this episode of Keep It Humane: The Podcast, we sit down with Courtney Mahoney of the Chicago Wolves to talk about the incredible community work happening through the organization.Courtney joined us to help promote the Wolves’ upcoming adoption event at their first home game on October 10, 2026, but our conversation quickly became so much more.We dive into the Wolves’ commitment to animal adoption, their long-running Adopt-A-Dog program, community partnerships, charitable initiatives, and the many ways professional sports can create opportunities to help animals and the people who care about them.It’s a great conversation about animals, community, sports, and using a platform for something bigger than the game itself.🏒🐾 Chicago Wolves vs. Animal Homelessness? Now THAT’S a team we can get behind.Tune in and hear how the Wolves are helping make a difference both on and off the ice.

Animal welfare is rewarding work—but it can also come with an emotional cost that isn't talked about nearly enough.In this episode of Keep It Humane: The Podcast, we sit down with Jamie McNally of Fortifyu for an honest conversation about moral injury, compassion fatigue, burnout, trauma, and the psychological challenges faced by people who work with animals.What happens when you know what you believe is right for an animal, but circumstances, policies, resources, or the system prevent you from doing it? How does repeatedly facing those situations affect the people doing this work?We explore the difference between burnout and moral injury, why animal welfare professionals can experience unique forms of emotional distress, and what organizations and leaders can do to create healthier, more supportive workplaces.This isn't just another conversation about "self-care." It's a deeper look at the realities of animal welfare work—and what happens when caring deeply becomes emotionally exhausting.If you've ever felt frustrated, overwhelmed, powerless, or simply worn down by this work, this episode is for you.🐾 Keep It Humane: The PodcastReal conversations about the people, challenges, and issues shaping animal welfare.

What happens when a police K-9 is critically injured in the line of duty? Who is responsible for getting that animal lifesaving emergency care—and what happens when every second counts?In this episode of Keep It Humane: The Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Lindsay Kendrick of VEG ER for Pets to take a closer look at Nero’s Law in Massachusetts, legislation created to provide emergency veterinary care and transportation for police dogs injured in the line of duty.We discuss the story behind Nero’s Law, how it works in practice, the role emergency veterinarians play when these calls come in, and the unique challenges of treating working K-9s in critical situations.But this conversation goes beyond one law. We also explore emergency veterinary medicine, the relationship between animal control, law enforcement, and veterinary professionals, and what it takes to make difficult decisions when an animal's life is on the line.A fascinating conversation about K-9s, emergency medicine, legislation, public safety, and the people who step up when animals need them most.🎙️ Keep It Humane: The PodcastBecause every animal matters—and sometimes, saving a life starts with knowing what to do when it matters most.