Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty

No single person can help 400+ animals alone...it takes a village. In this episode, we shine a light on the volunteers, transporters, fosters, veterinarians, and community partners who come together to pull off our largest rescue effort of the year, Out of the Cold. 

One year, the need was higher than ever before and the Coco's Heart Dog Rescue community came together to welcome 400+ animals to rescue in one weekend.

In this episode, we take a look back at how it all began, the early days of this incredible rescue effort, the evolving language and understanding around animal welfare, and the partnerships that made it all possible. From long road trips and sleepless nights to joyful adoptions and wagging tails, this is a heartfelt reflection on what it means to truly come together for animals in need.

Join us as we share behind-the-scenes stories, lessons learned, and how compassion continues to drive this annual effort forward... one rescue, one volunteer, and one animal at a time.

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In this episode, we're celebrating the 12 year journey of our friend and true OG of Coco's Heart Dog Rescue. She’s a volunteer, a coordinator, and a constant source of love — and for over 12 years, Alisha has been part of what makes Coco’s Heart truly special. We chat with Alisha about her favorite memories, proudest moments, and what keeps her inspired after all these years. Get ready for stories, smiles, and a heartfelt reminder of how one person really can make a difference.

Not to mention, she singlehandedly carried on her back a large chair in and up a tall staircase BY HERSELF. What can't Alisha do?! 

Photo attached to this episode is Mike. The soulmate dog of Alisha's family (her dad specifically!)

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The fun continues in part two of our conversation with Angel’s Pet World! From the early rescue days to big community moments, Angel, Al, and Erica share all the joy, laughter, and love that have made this partnership so special. We’re celebrating friendship, dogs (and birds), and the bright future ahead — because when passionate people come together, amazing things happen!

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We’re thrilled to welcome one of Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue’s biggest supporters who have become family to us — Angel’s Pet World, a beloved small business in the heart of Hudson, WI with even bigger hearts behind it. 

In this special two-part series, Angel herself, alongside Al and Erica join us to share the story of how our partnership began, memorable moments along the way, and plenty of laughter in between. Take a trip down memory lane with us as we celebrate the incredible kindness, dedication, and community spirit that they and the entire Angel’s Pet World team bring to both the human and animal communities. 

Tune in, smile, and help us say a heartfelt thank you to our friends at Angel’s Pet World for their unwavering love and support of rescue. 

Every rescue has a story... and ours wouldn’t be the same without Angel’s Pet World.

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Two of our amazing veterinary team members, Shannon and Amber, join us to give you a behind-the-scenes look at the Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue Veterinary Clinic. From the day-to-day hustle to some surprising “did ya know?” moments, they share what it’s really like to care for the rescue animals who come through our doors. Whether you’re curious about rescue medicine, want to learn more about the incredible work our clinic does, or just love hearing heartwarming (and sometimes funny!) stories, this episode is full of insights you won’t want to miss.

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In this episode, we welcome Sara, our adult dog Foster Coordinator and her partner and high school sweetheart, Jarred- our very first male guest too, woohoo! Together, they share what it’s like to foster as a team and give us a behind-the-scenes look at the dynamic between primary and non-primary foster caretakers in the home. From heartwarming stories to fun moments, Sara and Jarred open up about their journey with Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue, the balance of responsibilities, and the joy that comes with giving dogs a safe place to land.

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In this episode, we introduce you to Amber, one of our newest coordinators of the Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue team! Amber’s role is a unique hybrid—she bridges the gap between our veterinary team and the rescue, overseeing special medical cases and ensuring each pup receives the care they need to thrive when they need speciality care- whether cardiology, orthpedic, neurological, you name it. From managing complex treatments to helping oversee extra TLC to our most fragile rescue cases, Amber’s compassion makes her an invaluable part of our mission. Tune in to hear how she’s already making a difference for the dogs of Coco’s Heart!

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This week, we’re sharing a very special chapter in our rescue’s journey. What started with saving dogs has grown into something even more unexpected... welcoming mini horses into our Coco's Heart Dog Rescue family and community.

In this episode, we talk about the heart behind expanding into an equine program and establishing Richard’s Place, our on-site forever home for mini horses Lily and Donk. We also honor the life of our beloved little fella, Richard, who passed away this summer. His impact on our rescue... and on all of us... was profound, shaping not just who we are, but who we’re becoming.

Join us for a heartfelt conversation about dogs, horses, healing, and the lasting legacy of one very special soul.

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Behind every happily-ever-after adoption story is someone working tirelessly to make it happen. In this episode, we sit down with our amazing Adoption Applications Processing Coordinator, Tascha, the heart and soul who stays up late into the evening making sure families and dogs find their perfect match. From the excitement of approving an adoption to the challenges of finding just the right fit, she shares what it’s like to help turn hopeful applications into forever homes. 

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This week at Coco's Heart Dog Rescue, we’re thrilled to welcome Kim, a foster mentor, event rockstar, super foster, and one of the most dedicated volunteers of the Coco’s Heart family. From guiding new foster families, to working with quirky (often big, adult, and overlooked) dogs, and learning the language of Italian Greyhounds, Kim has truly done it all.

Kim and her family have opened their hearts and home to over 230+ dogs through rescue... an impact that’s hard to put into words. She brings experience, humor, and perspective that will both inspire you and make you smile.

Tune in to hear Kim’s journey and wisdom on fostering, rescue life, and everything in between!

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View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE!

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