In this episode of The Real Dog Talk, we’re busting a big one — the myth of the perfect dog. Spoiler: they don’t exist (and that’s okay).

Nicole shares real talk from the rescue front lines about the unrealistic expectations people often have when adopting — and how embracing imperfection can lead to the most meaningful connections. From messy beginnings to beautiful bonds, this episode is all about shifting our perspective on what "perfect" really means when it comes to dogs.

Whether you’re thinking about adopting, fostering, or just want to feel seen in your own dog journey — this one’s for you.

🎧 Listen now and let go of the checklist.

Taking in a pregnant rescue dog is one of the most rewarding experiences a foster can have—but it’s also a BIG responsibility. In this episode, we’re talking all about:

🐕 What it’s like to foster a pregnant dog (spoiler: lots of belly rubs and midnight check-ins!)
 🍼 Our responsibilities as fosters vs. what mama naturally does
 💖 The emotional rollercoaster and the ultimate reward—helping a mama dog bring her puppies safely into the world!

Whether you’re thinking about fostering or just love a good heartwarming dog story, this episode is for you!

This week on Real Dog Talk, we’re diving into the tough conversations that most people in the rescue world don’t want to talk about. Rescue work is full of heart, but it also comes with hard realities—and we’re breaking them down with complete honesty.

We know these topics can be controversial, but they need to be discussed. Our goal isn’t just to stir the pot—it’s to bring awareness, education, and real talk to the world of rescue and adoption.

This week on The Real Dog Talk, we’re chatting with the incredible Michelle Shaffer from Triangle Canine Club! Michelle shares all about the amazing work Triangle Canine Club does for the community, as well as the fun events they host—both with and without our furry friends. 🐶🎉

From bringing dog lovers together to making a difference in the community, you don’t want to miss this inspiring episode!

This week’s episode is a special one! One of my best friends and fellow Perfectly Imperfect Pups board member, Nicole M., took the reins and interviewed me about, well, everything. From the highs and lows of running a rescue to my favorite type of movies, no topic was off-limits.

We laughed, we reflected, and we got real about what drives me—whether it’s my passion for saving dogs or finding joy in everyday moments. This candid conversation offers a peek behind the curtain of my life, giving you a deeper look at the person behind PIPs.

Tune in for a fun, heartfelt, and honest chat that might just surprise you!

 Love learning about unusual dog health issues? Then today’s episode is for you! Tune into Real Dog Talk as we dive into the fascinating world of parvovirus myocarditis—spoiler alert: it’s not the parvo you think you know! 

 Join us today while we talk about training a hearing challenged dog. Training a deaf dog is not harder, it's just a little different and super easy! 

 Let's break the stigmas of rescues and rescue dogs. Some don't adopt because they are scared all rescue dogs are broken, scared, old or not the breed they want. This is further from the truth!!! 

Today is all about Cocoa the Tour dog, who she is and what an amazing life she has! 

Today is a tougher subject, when is it time to let your dog go. When they are sick and you have to make that tough, but kind choice, here is how I made it and some things to think about when you are facing that choice.

We talked with a grief counselor back in May of 2023, here is the link to it, it was a great episode if you are coming to this decision or if you have had to recently.  

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2090907/12837182