Best SPCA Podcasts (2026)

The Rescue Dog Pod – Featuring Neil Laird In this episode of The Rescue Dog Pod, host Helen Summerfield Brown, President of Stray Dog Support, welcomes Emmy-nominated producer and author Neil Laird for an in-depth conversation about storytelling, compassion, and rescue. The episode celebrates the power of second chances—both for animals and for the…

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The Case of the Lobster, a “Living, Sentient Creature” 54:20

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3h ago54:20

54:20

In a bold legal challenge that could redefine animal protection law, PETA is taking on the Maine Lobster Festival for steaming 16,000 lobsters alive on public parkland. The case hinges on Maine’s unique animal cruelty statute that protects “every living sentient creature” – a definition that evolves with scientific understanding. PETA’s Director of…

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Free Adoptions: Do Fees Really Protect Animals? 13:43

8d ago13:43

13:43

Do adoption fees really protect animals — or do they just make us feel better? For years, many in animal welfare have believed that adoption fees act as a safeguard: if someone can't afford the fee, how will they afford the pet? Free adoptions, the argument goes, invite impulse decisions and bad outcomes. In this episode, I explain why I once belie…

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Paws & Purpose #4 "The Challenges of Animal Welfare Cruelty Investigations" featuring Courtney Burns 35:01

13d ago35:01

35:01

Join us for a fantastic conversation about the challenges and rewards of being the Chief Investigator of the ACI.By SPCA of Texas

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Paws & Purpose #3 "Animal Welfare, Rescue, and Helping Those in Need" featuring Tonja Thurman 32:33

19d ago32:33

32:33

Join us for an exciting episode featuring Tonja Thurman, Community Impact Manager and Wildlife Rescuer. Don't miss it!By SPCA of Texas

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Paws & Purpose #1 "The Future of the SPCA of Texas" featuring Chris Luna 26:36

13d ago26:36

26:36

Join us for an inspiring episode of the Paws and Purpose Podcast featuring Chris Luna, the dynamic President and CEO of the SPCA of Texas. With a passion for animal welfare and a vision for a better future, Chris will share insights into the incredible work being done to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in North Texas and beyond. Discover t…

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Paws and Purpose: Pilot Episode featuring Maura Davies, SVP Marketing and Communications 26:15

13d ago26:15

26:15

The SPCA of Texas is excited to announce the launch of its brand-new podcast, Paws & Purpose – the Pawdcast. This inspiring series will bring listeners closer to the heart of the organization's life-saving work, featuring in-depth conversations with experts, staff, volunteers, and passionate animal advocates. Each episode will delve into a wide ran…

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Her Name Is Tangi: Why Housing Policy Is Animal Welfare Policy 16:24

14d ago16:24

16:24

When a dog ends up in a taped-shut box outside a shelter, it's not a single-issue problem — it's a sign of how many pressures families and animals are facing right now. In this episode, Penny shares why she set aside her planned topic to talk about the growing number of families forced to give up pets because they can't find or keep housing that al…

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When Cruelty Laws Collide With Inaccessible Vet Care: What Advocates Can Do 14:54

22d ago14:54

14:54

Cruelty laws require pet owners to provide necessary veterinary care, but in many communities that care is financially or geographically out of reach—and the law offers no workable way to address that gap. In this episode, I examine what happens when statutes mandate "necessary veterinary care," but many communities face barriers such as high cost,…

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Animals and the Constitution with Michael Dorf 1:02:54

27d ago1:02:54

1:02:54

In this intellectually stimulating episode of the Animal Law Podcast, Mariann Sullivan speaks with constitutional law expert Michael Dorf about his innovative course “Animals and the Constitution.” Dorf shares how fundamental legal principles intersect with animal protection, revealing both the limitations and opportunities within our constitutiona…

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SPCA Stories - Dr. Jen Wernsing, DVM, SPCA Monterey County Veterinarian 53:00

1M ago53:00

53:00

Meet SPCA Dr. Jen Wernsing, one of SPCA Monterey County's exceptional veterinary staff members! For more information on SPCA Monterey County, visit www.spcamc.org. Season 1 of SPCA Stories is coming to a close with this episode. We will take a bit of a hiatus, with Season 2 commencing in January! We will continue with the interview-style format - w…

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Ending Cat Declawing: Which States Are Enacting Bans in 2025? 15:31

1M ago15:31

15:31

Declawing isn't a nail trim—it's the amputation of the last bone of each toe. In this episode, I break down what the procedure involves, the states banning it, and what advocates should know about the growing movement to end it. We cover: What declawing is—and why it's far more invasive than most owners realize Documented health impacts: chronic pa…

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When Caring Hurts: Understanding Compassion Fatigue with Patricia Smith 1:12:29

1M ago1:12:29

1:12:29

In this episode of The Rescue Dog Pod, we dive into a topic that’s deeply personal and often left unspoken — compassion fatigue. Whether you’re involved in animal rescue, veterinary work, or any kind of caregiving role, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Our host opens up about their own experience with compassion fatigue — the emotiona…

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SPCA Stories - Sherrie McCullough, SPCA Monterey County Board of Directors Chair 40:06

1M ago40:06

40:06

Meet Sherrie McCullough, esteemed Chair of the SPCA Monterey County Board of Directors. For more information about SPCA Monterey County visit SPCAmc.org.By SPCA Monterey County

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Emotional Support Animals and the Housing Crisis: Loophole or Lifeline 14:32

2M ago14:32

14:32

Rising rents and restrictive housing policies are forcing more families to surrender beloved pets to shelters—a heartbreaking choice driven by systemic issues. Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are often seen as a lifeline, but confusion abounds about what ESAs truly are, how they differ from service animals, and what rights pet owners actually have…

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Fundraising with Purpose — A Conversation with Katherine Lacefield 1:02:01

2M ago1:02:01

1:02:01

In this episode of The Rescue Dog Pod, host Helen Summerfield-Brown, founder of Stray Dog Support, welcomes Katherine Lacefield, founder of Just Be Cause Consulting and host of The Just Be Cause Podcast. Katherine shares her 20+ years of experience in the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors, offering insights into how organizations can reignite the…

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Global Rescue In Action: Lori Kalef and the SPCA International Mission 1:11:44

2M ago1:11:44

1:11:44

In this inspiring episode of The Rescue Dog Pod, host Helen Summerfield-Brown, President and Founder of Stray Dog Support, sits down with Lori Kalef, Director of Programs at SPCA International — a true global force in animal welfare. From her early days volunteering at local shelters to leading international rescue missions, Lori shares her journey…

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How to Start an Animal Advocacy Group and Get Results: Lessons from Pennsylvania Voters for Animals 35:49

2M ago35:49

35:49

Think you need a law degree or years of experience to pass animal protection laws? Suzanne Gonzalez started Pennsylvania Voters for Animals with no legislative background and helped pass a comprehensive pet sales ban in Easton, PA. Host Penny Ellison shares their step-by-step blueprint that any group of committed advocates can replicate. In this ep…

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The Case of the Overlooked Law: Challenging Animal Confinement Through Forgotten Legislation 49:13

2M ago49:13

49:13

Attorneys Will Lowrey (Animal Partisan) and Jessica Blome (Greenfire Law) join Mariann to discuss their battle to use California’s century-old animal protection laws to help dairy calves confined in tiny hutches. Despite having clear evidence that a dairy farm was violating Penal Code Section 597t by denying calves adequate exercise, they encounter…

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Understanding Retail Pet Sale Bans: What They Do and Why They Matter 22:20

2M ago22:20

22:20

Over 400 cities, counties, and several U.S. states have banned or restricted retail pet sales—but why does it matter to animal welfare and shelter overcrowding? Host Penny Ellison, animal law professor and advocate, examines how laws targeting commercial pet stores are making a difference and what every animal lover needs to know. In this episode, …

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Finding The Wow In Every Dog - The Importance of Canine Enrichment With Heidi La Cosse 54:28

2M ago54:28

54:28

In this episode of The Rescue Dog Pod, host Helen Summerfield-Brown dives into the world of canine enrichment with special guest Heidi LaCosse, founder of the Canine Enrichment Center in Grafton Wisconsin. Heidi shares her journey from a career in retail management to becoming a professional groomer, certified dog trainer, and lifelong advocate for…

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How Delaware Created a Statewide Office of Animal Welfare- A Model for Advocates 23:34

3M ago23:34

23:34

Over the past decade, Delaware has altered more than 40,000 pets and vaccinated over 31,000 animals against rabies through a single coordinated program. They've achieved a 90% save rate across their shelter system. How? By creating a centralized Office of Animal Welfare that coordinates everything from lost pets to cruelty investigations to subsidi…

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Saving Strays in Mexico: A Conversation with Stephanie Garcia 1:00:47

3M ago1:00:47

1:00:47

In this episode of the Rescue Dog Pod, host Helen Summerfield-Brown, President and Founder of Stray Dog Support, sits down with long-time animal advocate Stephanie Garcia — the South American Partnerships Liaison and Project Manager for Stray Dog Support’s Save a Stray Mexico initiative. With over 25 years of experience in animal rescue, Stephanie …

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Five Advocacy Lessons from Jane Goodall 20:24

3M ago20:24

20:24

When animal advocates face criticism, burnout, and tough ethical choices, how can they stay effective and inspired? In this episode of The Animal Advocate, I pay tribute to the legendary Dr. Jane Goodall by exploring five powerful advocacy lessons we can all apply—no matter where we are in our advocacy journey. Discover how Jane's optimism, strateg…

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When Advocacy Brings Backlash: Dr. Crystal Heath on Standing Strong 40:19

3M ago40:19

40:19

When animal advocates speak up—especially against powerful industry interests—they often face backlash. To be effecive, advocates have to prepare to face criticism and retaliation and use ut to strengthen their resolve. Dr. Crystal Heath is a shelter veterinarian, animal welfare advocate, and founder of Our Honor, a nonprofit working to expose and …

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SPCA Stories - Zack Young, IT Technician, Livewire Information Systems 25:06

3M ago25:06

25:06

Meet Zack Young! Zack is an IT technician for Livewire Information Systems - the amazing company that takes care of all of the SPCA’s important tech needs. Zack is a great guy who loves animals and truly appreciates the work that is accomplished at SPCA Monterey County. For more information about SPCA Monterey County visit spcamc.org; for more info…

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The Case of Banning the Truth in a Public Park | First Amendment, Animal Agriculture & Free Speech 1:10:50

3M ago1:10:50

1:10:50

In this thought-provoking episode of the Animal Law Podcast, we dive into a First Amendment case that cuts straight to the heart of animal advocacy: can the government prevent activists from showing the public what actually happens to animals in industrial agriculture? Mariann speaks with Sara Berinhout of FIRE (Foundation for Individual Rights and…

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Behind The Rescue: Shira Scott Astrofs Mission to Save Animals 53:29

3M ago53:29

53:29

In this powerful episode of The Rescue Dog Pod, host Helen Summerfield-Brown sits down with actress, animal rescuer, and founder of The Animal Rescue Mission, Shira Scott Astrof. Best known for her roles in The Office, Criminal Minds, and more, Shira shares her incredible journey from Hollywood to hands-on rescue work, revealing what truly goes on …

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Why Local Governments Should Be Required to Provide Animal Control Services 35:24

3M ago35:24

35:24

When you find an injured stray dog in your neighborhood, who do you call? In many communities across America, the answer might surprise you: there's often no one officially responsible for helping. This creates dangerous gaps that leave both animals and people at risk. Host Penny Ellison talks with Brian Hackett, Director of Government and Communit…

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SPCA Stories - Crystal Botello, SPCA Monterey County Customer Care Specialist 37:03

3M ago37:03

37:03

Meet Crystal Botello! Crystal is one of our incredible Customer Care Specialists. These vital team members welcome the public to both our adoption center and our intake shelter, holding a wide variety of responsibilities - all performed with the utmost compassion. For more information about SPCA Monterey County please visit www.SPCAmc.org.…

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How Animal Control Really Works: An Advocate's Guide 23:25

3M ago23:25

23:25

When it comes to stray animals, barking dog complaints, and lost pets, why do some towns seem to run efficient shelters while others barely cover the basics? The answer reveals a surprising patchwork of animal control models—and the role advocates can play in making them better. Host Penny Ellison breaks down how animal control really works, the di…

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On The Frontlines of Rescue: A Conversation with Sabrina Fatrdla 51:52

4M ago51:52

51:52

In this episode of The Rescue Dog Pod, host Helen Summerfield-Brown welcomes the incredible Sabrina Fatrdla, our Director of Operations of Stray Dog Support, and our very first guest on the podcast! Sabrina takes us behind the scenes of her work supporting stray dogs globally, including her recent trip to Egypt where she connected with our rescue p…

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Rescuing Dogs, Not Ego: Social Media, Hate and The Real Cost On Rescuers 12:25

4M ago12:25

12:25

In this episode, we take a raw and honest look at the dark side of rescue work — the social media abuse, judgment, and constant criticism that rescuers face online. From the infamous “Why didn’t you save that dog?” comments to the emotional toll of dealing with keyboard warriors who contribute nothing but negativity, we explore how this noise can d…

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SPCA Stories - Jamie Doglione, Ruff Start Pet Behavior Specialist 47:58

4M ago47:58

47:58

Meet Jamie Doglione! Jamie is in charge of SPCA Monterey County's highly regarded Ruff Start program. Ruff Start provides a second chance for shelter dogs that need extra training, socialization or care before being placed for adoption - pairing these shelter dogs with inmate trainers at Salinas Valley State Prison. Learn more at www.spcamc.org!…

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Animal Law Breakthrough: Court Recognizes Dogs as Family Members with Christopher Berry 1:07:16

4M ago1:07:16

1:07:16

This episode of the Animal Law Podcast features Christopher Berry, Executive Director of the Nonhuman Rights Project, discussing a groundbreaking court case that recognizes companion animals as family members in certain legal contexts. Mariann and Christopher explore how this New York decision challenges decades of precedent that treated beloved pe…

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The Pet Care Access Crisis That Telehealth Could Help Solve: A Veterinarian's View 23:39

5M ago23:39

23:39

Guest: Dr. Lauren Hughes, Heal House Call Veterinarians When veterinary costs skyrocket and transportation becomes impossible, pets suffer and families face heartbreaking surrender decisions. But what if the solution is already in your pocket? Dr. Lauren Hughes has practiced veterinary medicine across six states and seen firsthand how barriers to c…

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A Typical Day 14:54

5M ago14:54

14:54

Welcome to The Rescue Dog Pod, where the stories are real, and the glamour? Yeah… that doesn’t live here. In this episode, “A Typical Day,” come and listen as I reveal the thrilling reality of rescue work—it’s basically just paperwork, emails, and endless computer stuff. No, I’m not wrangling wild dogs in a field all day. I’m wrangling spreadsheets…

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SPCA Stories - Christy Jacoby, SPCA Monterey County Benefit Shop Manager 40:57

5M ago40:57

40:57

Meet Christy Jacoby! Christy oversees the day to day operations of the SPCA Benefit Shop, located in Carmel, CA. The SPCA Benefit Shop is an amazing second hand boutique, and all proceeds go to help the animals at the SPCA. For more information visit www.spcamc.orgBy SPCA Monterey County

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Veterinary Telehealth: Expanding Access for Underserved Pet Owners 18:57

5M ago18:57

18:57

Millions of pet owners can't access basic veterinary care—not because vets don't want to help, but because a single legal requirement blocks the technology that could help them connect with each other. What if removing one outdated rule could transform pet healthcare overnight? In this episode, we expose how Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship…