Over 2,200 dogs. One shelter. One year. Many of them healthy, treatable, or simply misunderstood.
In this urgent episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em is joined by trainer and advocate Mattison Skoog-Simpson (Freed By Training) to expose the heartbreaking truth behind the rescue crisis—why good dogs are being euthanized, why the system is failing, and how dog lovers everywhere can be part of the change without burning out.

In this episode:

• Learn why shelters are overwhelmed—and how behavior issues and underfunding play a role

• Understand the emotional toll on rescue workers and volunteers—and how to protect your own mental health

• Discover how small acts of advocacy, time, or skill-sharing can create real, lasting impact

Press play to uncover what’s really happening inside shelters—and how your voice, time, and compassion can help save good dogs from being lost to a broken system.

Guest Info:

• Website: freedbytraining.com/explore

• Instagram: @freedbytraining & TikTok: @unpacked.stream

This Episode is Proudly Sponsored By PetMatRx

Use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

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Email ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ to get in touch with Em

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! ⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/PETMATRXtdwafm⁠⁠

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.