#119 Zach Skow on Redemption, Recovery & the Pawsitive Change Movement

In this moving episode of K9's Talking Scents, host Cameron Ford sits down with Zach Skow, co-founder of Marley’s Mutts and the groundbreaking Pawsitive Change Program.Zach shares his personal battle with addiction—and how it ultimately led him to a purpose-driven mission: rescuing shelter dogs and pairing them with incarcerated individuals to create a powerful cycle of healing and redemption.Through Pawsitive Change, inmates train rescue dogs inside California prisons, giving both a second chance at life. These dogs don’t just find homes—they sometimes go on to become working K9s in security, detection, and emotional support.In this episode:Zach’s story of recovery and building Marley’s MuttsWhy working with rescue dogs heals trauma for both humans and animalsHow the Pawsitive Change program transforms inmates and reduces recidivismAddressing the stigma around bully breeds in K9 and detection workReal success stories—both canine and humanThis one goes beyond dog training. It’s about purpose, second chances, and using K9s to create real social change.Chapters:00:00 Intro & Meet Zach Skow02:45 Zach’s Journey Through Addiction & Recovery07:12 The Origin of Marley’s Mutts10:28 Launching the Pawsitive Change Prison Program15:41 How Inmates Train Rescue Dogs Behind Bars20:03 Giving Purpose to the Forgotten—Dogs and Humans25:36 Stigma Around Bully Breeds in K9 Work31:19 Real Stories of Redemption from the Program37:44 Dogs as a Catalyst for Healing and Reform41:12 Pitbulls, Detection Work & the Future of K9 Training45:10 What’s Next for Marley’s Mutts & Pawsitive Change