Adopting a rescue dog feels like a dream—until a surprise heartworm diagnosis turns it into something much harder.
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em and Josh sit down with Molly to share the real story of Polo—a sweet rescue pup who made it to his forever home, only to face the fight of his life. From navigating costly treatment to supporting Polo with nutrition, enrichment, and round-the-clock care, Molly opens up about the reality of heartworm—and the emotional rollercoaster no one warned her about.

In this episode:

• Learn what heartworm treatment actually involves—from vet visits to lifestyle restrictions

• Understand how targeted nutrition and gentle enrichment can support healing and mental stimulation

• Hear how grief, hope, and deep love often coexist in the rescue dog journey

Press play to learn how education, empathy, and everyday care can change the outcome for dogs like Polo—and the people who love them

Guest Info:

Follow Molly & Polo: @polothepittie (Instagram + TikTok)

Learn more about heartworm disease: heartwormsociety.org

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of The Messy Middle: Getting Unstuck with your Big Feeling Dog

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Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

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Email ⁠[email protected]⁠ to get in touch with Em

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This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.