The Animal Control Report

In this solo-hosted episode of *The Animal Control Report*, Daniel Ettinger sits down with Kristen Hassen, Principal and Founder of Outcomes for Pets Consulting, LLC, to explore the latest trends and strategies shaping the future of animal sheltering and welfare. Kristen, a nationally recognized leader and innovator in the field, brings a wealth of experience from managing some of the largest animal shelters in the U.S., including the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, Austin Animal Center, and Pima Animal Care Center in Tucson. As the only shelter director to sustain a 90% live outcomes rate across multiple high-intake shelters, Kristen has set a remarkable standard in lifesaving and humane care.

Together, Daniel and Kristen dive into data-driven strategies that help shelters achieve successful outcomes for pets, from fostering community partnerships to leveraging resources that maximize positive results. Kristen shares insights from her work with government shelters in cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, and Dallas, as well as her collaborations with leading nonprofits, foundations, and industry influencers like the ASPCA, Best Friends Animal Society, and Jackson Galaxy Enterprises. Listeners will also learn about her role as a Faculty Fellow at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, where she mentors future leaders in animal welfare.

Tune in to hear Kristen's unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in the industry today, her vision for the future of humane animal care, and her commitment to building sustainable, compassionate shelter systems across the nation.

In this heartfelt episode, hosts Daniel Ettinger and Ashley Bishop take a deep dive into compassion fatigue, a challenge that touches nearly everyone in the field of animal welfare. They explore the emotional toll that rescuing, sheltering, and caring for animals can take on dedicated professionals and the strategies to manage it effectively. With personal stories, insights from the field, and practical advice, Daniel and Ashley shed light on the importance of mental health and resilience in animal care work. This episode is a must-listen for anyone on the frontlines of animal welfare seeking ways to balance their dedication with self-care.

*The Animal Control Report*, hosts Ashlee, Ashley, and Daniel sit down with Mark Sloat, a longtime animal welfare professional with a wealth of knowledge and a dedication to moving the field forward. Mark shares insights from his career and discusses the future of animal control, touching on the challenges and innovations that can help improve the profession. In the spirit of Halloween, the team also dishes out their picks for the best dog-friendly treats to make sure our four-legged friends can join in the spooky celebrations safely! Grab your favorite candy (for you or your pets!) and tune in for this fun, informative episode.

In this episode of *The Animal Control Report*, hosts Daniel, Ashlee, and Ashley dive into the critical topic of disaster preparedness for animals. With natural disasters becoming more frequent, it's essential to have a plan in place for pets. The team discusses best practices for preparing shelters, coordinating rescue efforts, and ensuring the safety of both animals and the people who care for them. Tune in to learn practical tips and strategies that animal control officers, shelter workers, and pet owners can use to protect animals during emergencies.

In this heartwarming episode of The Animal Control Report, hosts Ashlee Bishop and Ashley discuss the transformative power of dog rescue and adoption with Katherine Carver, author of ABANDONED: Chronicling the Journeys of Once-Forsaken Dogs. This visually stunning book captures the lives of nearly 60 once-abandoned dogs, showcasing their incredible journeys from shelters or rescue organizations to loving, forever homes.

Carver shares how her own experience adopting Biscuit, a Shetland Sheepdog who had been abandoned, inspired her decade-long project to document these touching stories. Through striking "before and after" photographs, Carver illustrates the deep connection between dogs and their adoptive families, shedding light on the profound benefits of adoption for both dogs and humans.

Tune in as Katherine discusses her artistic process, the emotional stories behind the photos, and the importance of rescue and adoption. A portion of the book's royalties goes to SPCA International, helping dogs in need around the world. Whether you're a dog lover, shelter advocate, or art enthusiast, this episode is sure to inspire and move you.

ABANDONED has been featured in the Los Angeles Times, The Baltimore Sun, AARP, and L'Oeil de la Photographie.

The final episode (3 of 3) of the animal hoarding nightmare of LuAnne Strickland.

In this episode of *The Animal Control Report*, hosted by Daniel Ettinger and Ashley Bishop, we dive into a recent lawsuit filed by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) against the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) over its alleged failure to properly regulate a notorious Iowa puppy mill. The lawsuit targets breeder Steve Kruse, whose facility has been the subject of countless violations of the Animal Welfare Act, yet continues to operate under USDA licensure.

We’ll explore the shocking details of the USDA’s inspection reports, including the appalling conditions at Kruse’s large-scale kennel and the repeated renewal of his license despite well-documented evidence of animal abuse and neglect. Our hosts will also discuss the broader implications of this case for the animal welfare community and the disturbing pattern of federal oversight failures that allow commercial breeders like Kruse to continue profiting at the expense of the animals’ well-being.

Join us for an eye-opening conversation about the ongoing fight to protect animals from cruelty and the accountability gap in the USDA’s enforcement of animal welfare laws.

In this episode of The Animal Control Report, hosts Ashlee and Ashley sit down with Carie Broecker, Executive Director and Co-founder of Peace of Mind Dog Rescue. Carie shares the inspiring story behind her organization’s mission to provide care and shelter to senior dogs and help senior citizens care for their beloved pets. The conversation delves into the unique challenges faced by older dogs and their owners, the importance of senior dog rescue, and how Peace of Mind Dog Rescue is filling a vital gap in animal welfare. Whether you're passionate about rescue work, community outreach, or simply love animals, this episode will leave you with a greater appreciation for the life-saving impact of compassionate end-of-life care for pets and their people.

Tune in for this heartwarming and insightful discussion!

In this episode of The Animal Control Report, hosts Ashlee, Ashley, and Daniel interview Jill Tucker, CEO of Cal Animals, about the organization’s essential role as a statewide advocate for animal welfare professionals in California. Jill delves into Cal Animals’ leadership in state legislative initiatives, their expert guidance to local governments, and their commitment to advancing animal welfare. The discussion highlights the impact of Hayden’s Law on shelter operations, and Jill shares insights on the ongoing debate surrounding the right of 501(c)(3) rescues to pull aggressive dogs from shelters. Tune in for a deep dive into the policies shaping the future of animal welfare.

In this episode of The Animal Control Report, hosts Ashlee and Ashley Bishop sit down with Genesis, a dedicated Street Vet Nurse, to discuss Project Street Vet. Founded in 2020, Project Street Vet provides free veterinary care to pets of people experiencing or at risk of homelessness through “Street Vet Work,” free pet clinics, and financial assistance. Genesis shares insights into the incredible work their team accomplished in 2022, how their supporters and volunteers have helped them grow, and what’s in store for the future of this vital outreach. Tune in to learn more about their mission and how they’re making a difference in the lives of pets and their people. Click here to check out their website.