Welcome back, listeners, to the podcast that exists to celebrate the working dog! The Hero Beside Me explores the professional and private lives of working dogs of all disciplines, and today we're delving into the world of conservation detection dogs.

I recorded this episode in Seligman, Arizona, when I went there to photograph a k9 team that was tracking black footed ferrets. These little guys are endangered and Working Dogs for Conservation is one organization that is helping with efforts to bring them back. This nonprofit deploys detection dogs for many conservation purposes around the world, and in this episode, you'll hear about some of them from WD4C's Outreach and Canine Specialist, Kayla Fratt. She talks to us about dogs who track endangered species that need protection, find troublesome invasive species that are wreaking havoc on their environments, and stop wildlife poachers in their tracks. She talks about the unique lifestyle of dog handlers in this field, and how having her personal pet dog become her professional partner has impacted their relationship.

If you are interested in conservation, the environment, and of course, dogs, then this episode is for you!

If you enjoy this episode, please consider subscribing to it, rating it, leaving a positive review, and sharing with people you know who are interested in the topic. This show exists in support of its sister photography project on the same topic and of the same name. You can learn more about it by visiting www.herobeside.me. 

I'd love to hear your feedback, questions, recommendations and ideas concerning this podcast. Please reach out at [email protected].

Get in touch with Working Dogs for Conservation at www.wc4d.org.