#119 Zach Skow on Redemption, Recovery & the Pawsitive Change Movement

K9s Talking Scents

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15d ago 59:09

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In this moving episode of K9's Talking Scents, host Cameron Ford sits down with Zach Skow, co-founder of Marley’s Mutts and the groundbreaking Pawsitive Change Program.

Zach shares his personal battle with addiction—and how it ultimately led him to a purpose-driven mission: rescuing shelter dogs and pairing them with incarcerated individuals to create a powerful cycle of healing and redemption.

Through Pawsitive Change, inmates train rescue dogs inside California prisons, giving both a second chance at life. These dogs don’t just find homes—they sometimes go on to become working K9s in security, detection, and emotional support.

In this episode:

Zach’s story of recovery and building Marley’s Mutts
Why working with rescue dogs heals trauma for both humans and animals
How the Pawsitive Change program transforms inmates and reduces recidivism
Addressing the stigma around bully breeds in K9 and detection work
Real success stories—both canine and human

This one goes beyond dog training. It’s about purpose, second chances, and using K9s to create real social change.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro & Meet Zach Skow
02:45 Zach’s Journey Through Addiction & Recovery
07:12 The Origin of Marley’s Mutts
10:28 Launching the Pawsitive Change Prison Program
15:41 How Inmates Train Rescue Dogs Behind Bars
20:03 Giving Purpose to the Forgotten—Dogs and Humans
25:36 Stigma Around Bully Breeds in K9 Work
31:19 Real Stories of Redemption from the Program
37:44 Dogs as a Catalyst for Healing and Reform
41:12 Pitbulls, Detection Work & the Future of K9 Training
45:10 What’s Next for Marley’s Mutts & Pawsitive Change

120 episodes

#Lifestyle #Animals and Pets #Cameron Ford #Dogs #Detectiondogs #Dogtraining #Nosework #Policek9 #Scentwork #Higher Education #Podcasting Education