The Animal Control Report

Summary In this episode, Daniel Ettinger and Ashlee Bishop discuss the changing approach to handling loose animals and the importance of providing access to care. They emphasize the need for education and outreach, as well as the benefits of spaying and neutering. The conversation highlights the One Health approach and the role of pet health insurance. They also discuss the challenges of distinguishing between stray and lost animals and the importance of consistency and collaboration in the animal welfare profession. In the closing remarks, the hosts express their excitement for the change they hope to bring in 2024 and emphasize the importance of raising awareness and getting more people on board. They also introduce a new slogan: 'Help People Help Animals.'Takeaways Changing the approach to handling loose animals can lead to a decrease in shelter intakes. Providing access to care, including spaying and neutering, is crucial in reducing the stray animal population. Education and outreach are key in changing public perception and promoting responsible pet ownership. Collaboration and consistency among animal welfare organizations are essential for achieving common goals. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/animalcontrolreport/support

In the season finale of The Animal Control Report, hosts Daniel, Ashley, and Ashlee sit down with Tori Fugate, Chief Communications Officer for Shelter Animals Count, to discuss the transformative role of data transparency in animal welfare. With her extensive experience as a communications professional and her leadership at Missouri’s largest shelter, KC Pet Project, Tori brings a fresh perspective on how data collection can drive impactful change. Discover how Shelter Animals Count empowers animal welfare organizations by streamlining shelter data collection, fostering transparency, and promoting meaningful evaluation. Tori explains how this data provides a clearer picture of the movement's progress in saving companion animals and preventing homelessness while equipping shelters with tools to share their compelling stories. Join us as we delve into Tori’s journey, her passion for elevating the field of animal sheltering, and the vital work being done nationwide to improve outcomes for animals and communities alike. Don’t miss this insightful conversation to close out the season! **About Our Guest** Tori Fugate is a nationally recognized leader in animal welfare and an award-winning communications professional. As the Chief Communications Officer of Shelter Animals Count, she’s using her expertise to enhance data transparency and elevate the stories of animal welfare organizations across the country. Her previous role at KC Pet Project saw her spearheading media relations, social media strategy, marketing, and fundraising, helping the organization rise to national prominence. Now, Tori is committed to driving the success of Shelter Animals Count by leveraging data to make a lasting impact. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/animalcontrolreport/support

In this solo-hosted episode of *The Animal Control Report*, Daniel Ettinger sits down with Kristen Hassen, Principal and Founder of Outcomes for Pets Consulting, LLC, to explore the latest trends and strategies shaping the future of animal sheltering and welfare. Kristen, a nationally recognized leader and innovator in the field, brings a wealth of experience from managing some of the largest animal shelters in the U.S., including the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, Austin Animal Center, and Pima Animal Care Center in Tucson. As the only shelter director to sustain a 90% live outcomes rate across multiple high-intake shelters, Kristen has set a remarkable standard in lifesaving and humane care. Together, Daniel and Kristen dive into data-driven strategies that help shelters achieve successful outcomes for pets, from fostering community partnerships to leveraging resources that maximize positive results. Kristen shares insights from her work with government shelters in cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, and Dallas, as well as her collaborations with leading nonprofits, foundations, and industry influencers like the ASPCA, Best Friends Animal Society, and Jackson Galaxy Enterprises. Listeners will also learn about her role as a Faculty Fellow at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, where she mentors future leaders in animal welfare. Tune in to hear Kristen's unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in the industry today, her vision for the future of humane animal care, and her commitment to building sustainable, compassionate shelter systems across the nation. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/animalcontrolreport/support

In this heartfelt episode, hosts Daniel Ettinger and Ashley Bishop take a deep dive into compassion fatigue, a challenge that touches nearly everyone in the field of animal welfare. They explore the emotional toll that rescuing, sheltering, and caring for animals can take on dedicated professionals and the strategies to manage it effectively. With personal stories, insights from the field, and practical advice, Daniel and Ashley shed light on the importance of mental health and resilience in animal care work. This episode is a must-listen for anyone on the frontlines of animal welfare seeking ways to balance their dedication with self-care. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/animalcontrolreport/support

*The Animal Control Report*, hosts Ashlee, Ashley, and Daniel sit down with Mark Sloat, a longtime animal welfare professional with a wealth of knowledge and a dedication to moving the field forward. Mark shares insights from his career and discusses the future of animal control, touching on the challenges and innovations that can help improve the profession. In the spirit of Halloween, the team also dishes out their picks for the best dog-friendly treats to make sure our four-legged friends can join in the spooky celebrations safely! Grab your favorite candy (for you or your pets!) and tune in for this fun, informative episode. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/animalcontrolreport/support

In this episode of *The Animal Control Report*, hosts Daniel, Ashlee, and Ashley dive into the critical topic of disaster preparedness for animals. With natural disasters becoming more frequent, it's essential to have a plan in place for pets. The team discusses best practices for preparing shelters, coordinating rescue efforts, and ensuring the safety of both animals and the people who care for them. Tune in to learn practical tips and strategies that animal control officers, shelter workers, and pet owners can use to protect animals during emergencies. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/animalcontrolreport/support

In this heartwarming episode of The Animal Control Report, hosts Ashlee Bishop and Ashley discuss the transformative power of dog rescue and adoption with Katherine Carver, author of ABANDONED: Chronicling the Journeys of Once-Forsaken Dogs. This visually stunning book captures the lives of nearly 60 once-abandoned dogs, showcasing their incredible journeys from shelters or rescue organizations to loving, forever homes. Carver shares how her own experience adopting Biscuit, a Shetland Sheepdog who had been abandoned, inspired her decade-long project to document these touching stories. Through striking "before and after" photographs, Carver illustrates the deep connection between dogs and their adoptive families, shedding light on the profound benefits of adoption for both dogs and humans. Tune in as Katherine discusses her artistic process, the emotional stories behind the photos, and the importance of rescue and adoption. A portion of the book's royalties goes to SPCA International, helping dogs in need around the world. Whether you're a dog lover, shelter advocate, or art enthusiast, this episode is sure to inspire and move you. ABANDONED has been featured in the Los Angeles Times, The Baltimore Sun, AARP, and L'Oeil de la Photographie. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/animalcontrolreport/support

The final episode (3 of 3) of the animal hoarding nightmare of LuAnne Strickland. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/animalcontrolreport/support

In this episode of *The Animal Control Report*, hosted by Daniel Ettinger and Ashley Bishop, we dive into a recent lawsuit filed by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) against the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) over its alleged failure to properly regulate a notorious Iowa puppy mill. The lawsuit targets breeder Steve Kruse, whose facility has been the subject of countless violations of the Animal Welfare Act, yet continues to operate under USDA licensure. We’ll explore the shocking details of the USDA’s inspection reports, including the appalling conditions at Kruse’s large-scale kennel and the repeated renewal of his license despite well-documented evidence of animal abuse and neglect. Our hosts will also discuss the broader implications of this case for the animal welfare community and the disturbing pattern of federal oversight failures that allow commercial breeders like Kruse to continue profiting at the expense of the animals’ well-being. Join us for an eye-opening conversation about the ongoing fight to protect animals from cruelty and the accountability gap in the USDA’s enforcement of animal welfare laws. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/animalcontrolreport/support

In this episode of The Animal Control Report, hosts Ashlee and Ashley sit down with Carie Broecker, Executive Director and Co-founder of Peace of Mind Dog Rescue. Carie shares the inspiring story behind her organization’s mission to provide care and shelter to senior dogs and help senior citizens care for their beloved pets. The conversation delves into the unique challenges faced by older dogs and their owners, the importance of senior dog rescue, and how Peace of Mind Dog Rescue is filling a vital gap in animal welfare. Whether you're passionate about rescue work, community outreach, or simply love animals, this episode will leave you with a greater appreciation for the life-saving impact of compassionate end-of-life care for pets and their people. Tune in for this heartwarming and insightful discussion! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/animalcontrolreport/support

In this episode of The Animal Control Report, hosts Ashlee, Ashley, and Daniel interview Jill Tucker, CEO of Cal Animals, about the organization’s essential role as a statewide advocate for animal welfare professionals in California. Jill delves into Cal Animals’ leadership in state legislative initiatives, their expert guidance to local governments, and their commitment to advancing animal welfare. The discussion highlights the impact of Hayden’s Law on shelter operations, and Jill shares insights on the ongoing debate surrounding the right of 501(c)(3) rescues to pull aggressive dogs from shelters. Tune in for a deep dive into the policies shaping the future of animal welfare. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/animalcontrolreport/support

In this episode of The Animal Control Report, hosts Daniel and Ashlee sit down with long-time Animal Control Officer Jessica Kooistra to discuss her extensive experience in the field and a powerful blog she wrote that challenges common misconceptions about animal shelters. Jessica shares a scenario many of us might face: finding a lost dog and navigating conflicting advice on what to do next. Should you take it to the shelter? Avoid the shelter at all costs? Rely on a rescue organization? As Jessica unpacks this situation, she dives deep into the myths and realities of "kill shelters" versus "no-kill shelters," shedding light on why shelters sometimes have to make the tough decision to euthanize and the real factors that contribute to overcrowded shelters. Read her blog here. Join us for an eye-opening conversation that not only explores the challenges faced by animal control officers and shelter staff but also calls for a shift in how the public perceives and interacts with these vital community resources. Learn why blaming shelters is misguided and how we can all play a part in creating a more responsible and compassionate community for our animals. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/animalcontrolreport/support

In this compelling episode of The Animal Control Report, hosts Ashlee, Ashley, and Daniel dive into a harrowing case of felony aggravated animal cruelty. The focus is on Lobo, a resilient pointer mix who endured unimaginable abuse at the hands of his owner. Allegations include the use of bear spray, physical assaults, and potential injuries inflicted with an object. The hosts dissect the legal, ethical, and emotional complexities surrounding this case, offering insight into how animal control officers, law enforcement, and the justice system respond to such heinous acts. Join us as we shed light on the steps being taken to ensure justice for Lobo and prevent future cases of animal cruelty. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/animalcontrolreport/support

In this episode of "The Animal Control Report," hosts Ashlee, Ashley, and Daniel are joined by Kim Alboum from the Bissell Pet Foundation for a crucial conversation about the importance of spay and neuter programs. With years of experience advocating for animal welfare, Kim shares valuable insights on how these programs are essential in controlling the pet population and reducing the strain on shelters. They discuss the challenges, successes, and innovative strategies that make spay and neuter efforts a cornerstone of responsible pet ownership and community care. Tune in for an informative and inspiring discussion that highlights the impact of these initiatives on the future of animal welfare. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/animalcontrolreport/support

In this episode of The Animal Control Report, hosts Daniel Ettinger and Ashley Bishop dive into the essential resources available for animal control officers. As frontline defenders of animal welfare, ACOs often face challenging situations that require not only skill but also the right tools and support. Daniel and Ashley share their insights on the latest resources, from training programs to mental health support, and discuss how these can enhance the effectiveness and well-being of officers in the field. Whether you're an ACO, a shelter worker, or simply passionate about animal welfare, this episode offers valuable information to help you stay informed and prepared. Tune in to learn how to access these vital resources and make a bigger impact in your community. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/animalcontrolreport/support