It is not about animals. It is not about people. There is not a increase in cruelty and neglect in this country. There is not an increase in horrible dogs. The system is lower functioning than it’s been in a long time. It’s moving more slowly and it never really worked in the first place. – Kristen Hassen
Episode 6 of Series 8 Transcript
In this episode we dive headfirst into the complexities of animal shelters while also
shedding light on the systemic issues that animal shelters battle. We’ll delve into the delicate balance within the shelter system, as the staff strive to serve both the animals and the public.
Guest: Over the previous decade, I’ve led three, large, government animal shelters in major U.S. cities. I’ve demonstrated that effectively leading animal services agencies requires a careful balance among five elements: public health and safety, lifesaving outcomes, community programs, humane care, and cost efficiency. I believe the most successful animal shelters engage their entire community in solutions, opening their doors, making it easy to help, and celebrating every single person who helps lost and homeless pets.
Today, I provide consultation and support services to many of the nation’s largest and most high-profile animal shelters. I also lead projects and provide consultative services to numerous national organizations including Petco Foundation, Pedigree Foundation, Banfield Foundation, VCA Charities, and Best Friends Animal Society.
Book Recommendations: All About Love: New Visions by Bell Hooks and The Lives and Deaths of Shelter Animals: The Lives and Deaths of Shelter Animals by Katja M. Guenther
Other Links:
The Netherlands: Worlds First Country with Zero Stray Dogs-
Outcomes for Pets with Kristen Hassen
44: Animals and Domestic Violence with Theres…
49: The Culture of Free Living Dogs wit…
Guest Profiles and Book Recommendations
What to start your own podcast in he Animal Advocacy or Animal Welfare Space? Check out my Beginner Podcast Consulting Services!
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Humans interact with animals every day of our lives. Even those without pets interact with animals in various ways: diet, wildlife, the clothes they wear. Even most medicines use animals in testing or in the medicine itself. This is a podcast about Anthrozoology: the study of interaction between humans and non-human animals.
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Episode 5 of Series 8: The World of Animal Welfare and Sheltering TranscriptDiscover a groundbreaking initiative between Father Joe’s Villages and Helen Woodward Animal Center. This unique collaboration is changing the sheltering landscape and enhancing the lives of both humans …continue
Proudly brought to you by: 26 September 2023
Send us a textEpisode 8 of Series 14: The Dog’s Days of Autumn… TranscriptFeatured is a roundtable discussion focusing on the integration of humane, science-based techniques that prioritize emotional safety and trust. Key insights are provided on how trainers’ philosophies …continue
Proudly brought to you by: 17 November 2025
Send us a textEpisode 7, Series 14: Dog’s Days of Summer/Autumn… TranscriptFrom genetics to environment, we unpack the science behind your dog’s actions and what it means to live compassionately with them. Plus, a follow-up conversation with Kim and …continue
Proudly brought to you by: 3 November 2025
