Keep it Humane

Welcome to Keep it Humane: The Podcast! Hosts Daniel Ettinger, Ashley Bishop, and Ashlee Bishop (yes, there are two Bishops) explore the full spectrum of animal welfare—from animal control and shelters to rescue, advocacy, policy, and community care. Through real stories, expert insights, and honest conversations, we challenge misconceptions and reshape how we think about helping animals. Whether you're in the field or simply care about animals, this podcast is about building understanding, strengthening communities, and doing better for both people and pets. Help People. Help Animals

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24 episodes
weekly
Avg 48 min
English

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Tuesday · 54 min
We All Should be Friends of Animals
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.
October 6 · 50 min
Come Hug a Cow! Inside Gentle Barn
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.
September 29 · 47 min
2 Minutes for Doggies: How the Chicago Wolves Are Helping Animal Shelters & Rescues
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.
September 22 · 1 hr 3 min
Moral Injury, Compassion Fatigue & the Emotional Cost of Animal Welfare
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 Podcast Real conversations about the people, challenges, and issues shaping animal welfare.
September 15 · 41 min
When Every Second Counts: Inside Emergency Veterinary Medicine
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 Podcast Because every animal matters—and sometimes, saving a life starts with knowing what to do when it matters most.
September 1 · 54 min
The Animals We Don’t See: Inside the World of Laboratory Research
What happens to animals used in scientific research? And what does the world of laboratory animal advocacy actually look like? In this episode of Keep It Humane: The Podcast, we sit down with Meredith Blanchard of the National Anti-Vivisection Society (NAVS) for a conversation that takes us into a part of the animal welfare world many of us rarely encounter. We talk about laboratory animals, the history of animal research, the push for alternatives, what happens to animals after research, and the complex ethical and policy questions surrounding the use of animals in science. Whether you already have strong opinions on animal research or have simply never thought much about it, this conversation offers a look behind the curtain and into a world you may not even know exists.
August 25 · 48 min
Animal Welfare Resources You Need to Know About
In this episode, Ashley, Ashlee, and Daniel explore the resources available to animal welfare professionals—from training and professional organizations to research, grants, tools, and resources for some of the toughest challenges we face. We’ve also created a Keep It Humane Resource Page to make it easier to find trusted organizations and resources all in one place. 👉 Visit: keepithumane.com/resources And there’s a little something extra at the end! 🎉 Listen all the way through for our trivia question. The first person to answer correctly will receive FREE enrollment in a Keep It Humane course! Think you know the answer? Email your response to info@keepithumane.com.
August 18 · 59 min
Natural Healing or Hype? CBD, Mushrooms & Dog Health
Holistic pet health has become one of the most talked-about—and debated—topics in animal welfare. In this episode of Keep It Humane, we sit down with Angela Ardolino, founder of CBD Dog Health and MycoDog, to explore the growing world of natural therapies for pets. From CBD and medicinal mushrooms to fresh food diets and the endocannabinoid system, Angela shares how she became one of the leading voices in holistic pet wellness and why she believes a more natural approach can help improve the lives of companion animals. We also discuss the science behind these therapies, where the research stands today, and how pet owners and animal welfare professionals can separate evidence from marketing. Whether you're a skeptic, a supporter, or simply curious about alternative approaches to animal health, this conversation offers a thoughtful look at an evolving area of veterinary care. Join us for an engaging discussion that challenges conventional thinking while emphasizing the importance of informed, compassionate decision-making for the animals in our care.
August 11 · 51 min
The Cats of Korea: Inside the YongsanCats Rescue Mission
Join Daniel Ettinger, Ashley Bishop, and Ashlee Bishop as they welcome Julie Choi, founder of YongsanCats in Seoul, South Korea. What happens to community cats when an entire neighborhood is demolished? Julie shares the story behind YongsanCats, the challenges of rescuing cats displaced by urban redevelopment, and how her team has helped hundreds of cats find safety through rescue, foster care, and adoption. The conversation explores community cat management, the innovative Trap-Neuter-Adopt (TNA) model, the impact of large-scale redevelopment on animals, and what other communities can learn from YongsanCats' work. Whether you're an animal control officer, shelter professional, rescuer, or simply a cat lover, this episode offers a unique look at compassionate, community-based solutions from the heart of Seoul.
August 4 · 42 min
From Animal Shelters to Saving Elephants | Nikki Sharp of Wildlife SOS
Elephants are intelligent, emotional, and deeply social animals—but many have endured years of abuse, neglect, and exploitation before finding safety. In this episode of Keep It Humane: The Podcast, hosts Daniel Ettinger, Ashlee Bishop, and Ashley Bishop sit down with Nikki Sharp, Executive Director of Wildlife SOS USA, to explore the incredible work being done to rescue and rehabilitate elephants, sloth bears, leopards, and other wildlife in India. Nikki shares the remarkable stories behind elephant rescues, the successful campaign to end India's dancing bear trade, and what it takes to care for some of the world's largest and most complex animals. We also discuss the intersection of companion animal welfare and wildlife conservation, why public education matters, and how compassion can create lasting change for animals around the globe. Whether you work in animal welfare or simply love animals, this episode offers an unforgettable look into one of the world's most inspiring wildlife rescue organizations.
July 28 · 43 min
A Second Chance for Wildlife
Wildlife rehabilitation is more than rescuing animals—it’s about understanding ecosystems, making difficult decisions, and giving animals the best possible chance to return home. In this episode of Keep It Humane: The Podcast, Daniel sits down with Erin Stacks, founder of Back 2 the Wild Rehab in Michigan. Erin discusses her journey into wildlife rehabilitation, her work with injured and orphaned animals, the challenges of raising and releasing wildlife, and why education is one of the most important tools in conservation. From orphaned deer to birds of prey, Erin gives listeners a rare look into the dedication, heartbreak, and hope behind wildlife rescue. A must-listen for animal lovers, wildlife professionals, and anyone who wants to better understand the animals living alongside us.
July 21 · 38 min
The Thing Nobody in Animal Welfare Wants to Talk About (Part 2)
In Part Two of our interview with Kim Alboum, Director of Field Operations at BISSELL Pet Foundation, we pick up where we left off by answering the question Kim posed to us at the end of Part One. From there, we dive even deeper into bullying in animal welfare, respond to questions submitted by our listeners, and even ask AI for its perspective on one of the profession's toughest challenges. If you work in animal welfare, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Real change starts with honest dialogue—and that's exactly what this episode is about. Help people. Help animals. ❤️
July 14 · 30 min
The Thing Nobody in Animal Welfare Wants to Talk About (Part 1)
Bullying. Toxic workplace culture. Silence. These aren’t topics we often discuss in animal welfare—but they should be. In Part One of this two-part interview, we’re joined by Kim Alboum, Director of Field Operations at BISSELL Pet Foundation, to discuss her powerful article, The Thing Nobody in Animal Welfare Wants to Talk About. Together, we explore why bullying continues to exist in our profession, the impact it has on individuals and organizations, and why creating healthier workplace cultures is essential if we truly want to help animals. This is an honest, sometimes uncomfortable, but incredibly important conversation that every animal welfare professional should hear. And just when you think we’re wrapping up… Kim turns the tables and asks us a question. Be sure to tune in next week for Part Two, where we answer Kim’s question, dive even deeper into bullying in animal welfare, respond to listener questions, and even ask AI for its perspective on one of the profession’s toughest challenges. Help people. Help animals.
July 7 · 1 hr 1 min
On the Front Lines for Animals
Actor, producer, and lifelong animal advocate Billy McNamara joins Keep it Humane for a candid conversation about his remarkable journey from Hollywood to hands-on animal rescue. Billy shares how his passion for animals evolved into a lifelong mission, the unforgettable rescues that have shaped his perspective, and why he believes compassion should always come before convenience. We also discuss the current state of animal welfare, the challenges facing shelters and animal control professionals, and how each of us can make a meaningful difference for animals in our own communities. Whether you know Billy from the big screen or his tireless work advocating for animals, this is an inspiring conversation about purpose, perseverance, and using your platform to create positive change.
June 30 · 42 min
Throwback Episode: The Fourth of July Through the Eyes of Animal Control
The Fourth of July may be a day of celebration, but for animal control officers and animal shelters, it’s often one of the busiest—and most challenging—times of the year. Join Ashlee and Daniel as they discuss the impact fireworks and holiday festivities have on pets, animal shelters, and the professionals working around the clock to reunite lost animals with their families. They also share practical tips to help keep pets safe and reduce the number of animals that end up in shelters over the holiday. Whether you’re an animal welfare professional or a pet owner, this episode is packed with insights that can help make the holiday safer for everyone. 🎧 Give Episode 181 a listen wherever you get your podcasts, and help spread the word before the holiday!
June 23 · 50 min
The Human Side of Dog Behavior
This week on Keep it Humane, we sit down with renowned dog trainer, behavior consultant, author, and speaker Melissa McCue-McGrath. Known for her wit, honesty, and practical approach to animal behavior, Melissa shares lessons learned from years of working with dogs and the people who love them. We discuss the realities of dog training, common misconceptions about canine behavior, and the challenges facing pet owners, shelters, rescues, and animal welfare professionals. Melissa also talks about her books, her podcast, and why understanding behavior is about much more than teaching a dog to sit. Whether you’re an animal control officer, shelter professional, trainer, rescue volunteer, or devoted pet owner, this conversation is packed with insight, humor, and valuable takeaways. Join us as we explore the human-animal bond, behavior science, and the stories behind a career dedicated to helping dogs and their people succeed.
June 16 · 51 min
When Animal Control Loses Its Voice: Melissa Miller Reflects on a Difficult Decision
This week on Keep it Humane: The Podcast, we sit down with former St. Clair County Animal Control Director Melissa Miller following her recent resignation after a controversial vote by county commissioners to rewrite the county’s animal control ordinance. The changes shifted criminal animal cruelty investigations away from Animal Control and placed those responsibilities with local law enforcement agencies, a move Miller publicly opposed before stepping down. (St. Clair Area View⁠) Melissa joins us to discuss the events leading up to her resignation, her concerns about the future of animal cruelty investigations, and what these changes could mean for animal welfare professionals, law enforcement, and the animals they serve. This candid conversation explores the challenges of leadership, advocacy, and navigating policy decisions that impact the profession. Whether you’re an animal control officer, shelter professional, veterinarian, or animal welfare advocate, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
June 9 · 52 min
Community Cats, Community Solutions: A Conversation with Feral Fixers TNR Club
In this episode of Keep it Humane: The Podcast, Daniel Ettinger and Ashley Bishop sit down with the team from Feral Fixers TNR Club to discuss the important role Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs play in managing community cat populations and improving the lives of cats and the neighborhoods they call home. We explore the realities of community cat management, the challenges faced by volunteers and animal welfare organizations, and how grassroots efforts can create meaningful change. From reducing shelter intake to improving cat welfare and strengthening community partnerships, this conversation highlights the impact dedicated advocates can have when they come together with a shared purpose. Whether you’re an animal welfare professional, volunteer, rescuer, or simply someone who cares about cats, this episode offers insight into one of the most discussed and important topics in animal welfare today. Join us for a thoughtful conversation about community cats, collaboration, and helping people help animals.
June 2 · 57 min
Helping Shelters Help More Animals
In this episode of Keep it Humane: The Podcast, Daniel Ettinger, Ashlee Bishop and Ashley Bishop sit down with Dr. Sara Pizano, founder of Team Shelter USA, for a candid conversation about the current state of animal sheltering in America. From intake diversion and community-based programs to public policy, field services, and shelter operations, Dr. Pizano shares lessons learned from working with shelters and communities across the country. The discussion explores how animal welfare has evolved over the years, the challenges shelters face today, and the difficult decisions that come with balancing animal care, public expectations, and limited resources. Whether you agree, disagree, or fall somewhere in between, this episode is an opportunity to hear one of the most influential voices in modern animal sheltering discuss where the profession has been, where it is today, and where it may be headed next.
May 26 · 47 min
Fox Around and Find Out!
Daniel and Ashley are joined by Nicole Navarro from Pawsitive Beginnings to talk animal rescue, advocacy, and the realities of working in animal welfare. From helping vulnerable animals to supporting the community, Nicole shares the passion and challenges behind the work being done every day to make a difference. The conversation covers rescue efforts, public perception, collaboration in animal welfare, and the dedication it takes to keep showing up for animals in need. Honest, insightful, and fun, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

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