The Foster Files - Stories about Animal Rescue and Welfare

This solo episode uncovers the often-overlooked impacts of foster language on morale, public perception, and animal welfare. Kelly shares powerful insights from her own experiences and discusses common phrases like "keeping them" or "giving them up" that may reinforce guilt and confusion. You'll discover practical alternatives—like asking “what's the best home for this animal?”—that foster clearer, more positive conversations around adoption.Foster Spotlight: Wagtopia: Adopt Dogs, Cats, Register Pet Microchip, Geo TagsJoin the Pack: https://linktr.ee/thefosterfilespodcastSubscribe to my Newsletter: https://the-foster-files-podcast.kit.com/220e069679https://linktr.ee/thefosterfilespodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/thefosterfilepodcastEmail Me: [email protected] on YouTube: The Foster Files - YouTubeMeet Kelly Motter – CanvasRebel Magazine

The tragic death of a carriage horse in Central Park has ignited a fire under the fight to end NYC's horse-drawn industry—and the stakes couldn’t be higher. With footage of the heartbreaking incident circulating widely, the urgent question is: how many more lives must be lost before decisive action is taken?In this gripping episode, Kelly sits down with Julie Cappiello, president of Voters for Animal Rights, to unpack the harrowing realities behind the carriage horse industry in New York City. Just days after a horse collapsed and died from ingesting poisonous plants in Central Park, an entirely new incident occurs—this time involving a spooked horse that bolted and fatally injured a teenager. As emotions run high and communities demand change, Julie reveals the behind-the-scenes efforts to ban horse carriages in NYC—and what it truly takes to protect animals and humans alike.Sign The Petition to Ban Horse Carriages in NYC - Voters For Animal RightsDonate - Voters For Animal RightsNYC Residents: Demand Your NYC Council Member Ban Horse Carriages NOWSubscribe to my Newsletter: https://the-foster-files-podcast.kit.com/220e069679https://linktr.ee/thefosterfilespodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/thefosterfilepodcastEmail Me: [email protected] on YouTube: The Foster Files - YouTubeMeet Kelly Motter – CanvasRebel Magazine

Most animal shelters are caught in a cycle of tragedy and miscommunication—until now. Tawny Hammond, Director of No Kill Advancement at Best Friends Animal Society, unveils a revolutionary approach that’s transforming shelters into lifesaving havens. With her unique background in public service and community wellness, Tawny shares how shifting the narrative around "no kill" and embracing compassionate, community-centered strategies can finally end the needless killing of hundreds of thousands of pets each year.Promoting Animal Welfare & Pet Adoption | Best Friends Animal SocietyTawny Hammond, Director of No-Kill Advancement | Best Friends Animal SocietyTawny's Ted Talk: Not Your Grandpa’s Animal Pound | Tawny Hammond | TEDxSUU - YouTubeFoster Spotlight: Adopt a Shelter Cat, Dog, Pocket or Barnyard Animal in Hamilton CountySubscribe to my Newsletter: https://the-foster-files-podcast.kit.com/220e069679https://linktr.ee/thefosterfilespodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/thefosterfilepodcastEmail Me: [email protected] on YouTube: The Foster Files - YouTubeMeet Kelly Motter – CanvasRebel Magazine

Recorded at the "Paws and Pints" event in Oakmont, Pennsylvania, it features interviews with representatives from various rescue organizations, including Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh, Biggie's Bullies, Animal Protectors of Allegheny Valley, and Cross Your Paws. The episode highlights the stories of adoptable dogs and the efforts of these organizations to find them loving homes. Kelly emphasizes the importance of fostering and volunteering, encouraging listeners to get involved in animal welfare. The episode also includes information on how to connect with the featured organizations and support their missions.Humane Animal Rescue - Care They Need. Love They Deserve.Biggies Bullies – Saving One Bully at a TimeANIMAL PROTECTORS OF ALLEGHENY VALLEY - HomeCross Your Paws RescueBellarina - Adoptable Pet | Petfinder | PetfinderIvy - Adoptable Pet | Petfinder | PetfinderStarfire - Adoptable Pet | Petfinder | PetfinderRaven - Adoptable Pet | Petfinder | PetfinderSubscribe to my Newsletter: https://the-foster-files-podcast.kit.com/220e069679https://linktr.ee/thefosterfilespodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/thefosterfilepodcastEmail Me: [email protected] on YouTube: The Foster Files - YouTubeMeet Kelly Motter – CanvasRebel Magazine

Most of us are unknowingly supporting a billion-dollar industry that's devastating the planet, exploiting countless animals, and harming human health — but Cameron Harsh reveals how a shift in awareness and action can tip the scales toward compassion and sustainability.In this eye-opening episode, Cameron, Interim Executive Director of World Animal Protection, pulls back the curtain on the dark realities of factory farming, wildlife trade, and captive animal entertainment. From the cruel confinement of factory-farmed animals to the horrific trade of wild species like pangolins and bears, he explains why these industries persist despite decades of activism and legislation. You'll discover how powerful industry lobbying, hidden costs, and aggressive marketing campaigns keep cruelty in plain sight, and what changes are slowly turning the tide.Our Work | Ending the Suffering of AnimalsPreparing a Disaster PlanEXPOSED: Dead Parrots, Filthy Cages, Birds Crammed into Cages at Pet Store SuppliersMicrosoft Word - Health Impacts of Industrial Livestock Systems-ver1.2.docxPass the OCTOPUS Act and Ban Octopus FarmingFoster Spotlight: A Big Win for a Tiny ParrotSubscribe to my Newsletter: https://the-foster-files-podcast.kit.com/220e069679https://linktr.ee/thefosterfilespodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/thefosterfilepodcastEmail Me: [email protected] on YouTube: The Foster Files - YouTubeMeet Kelly Motter – CanvasRebel Magazine

When it comes to protecting animals, having the right legal foundation can be the game-changer your organization needs—but most nonprofits are flying blind when it comes to navigating regulations, governance, and funding challenges. Jaclyn Leeds, Executive Director of the Animal Defense Partnership, reveals how free legal services are empowering hundreds of animal nonprofits across the United States to operate smarter, stronger, and more impactful. Discover how this unique, donor-funded organization provides transactional legal advice—covering governance, intellectual property, employment, and compliance—fueling mission success without the complexity of litigation or hefty law firm fees.https://www.animaldefensepartnership.orgFoster Spotlight, Max: Wagtopia: Adopt Dogs, Cats, Register Pet Microchip, Geo TagsSubscribe to my Newsletter: https://the-foster-files-podcast.kit.com/220e069679https://linktr.ee/thefosterfilespodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/thefosterfilepodcastEmail Me: [email protected] on YouTube: The Foster Files - YouTubeMeet Kelly Motter – CanvasRebel Magazine

Nick Pisciottano is a dedicated Pennsylvania state senator and animal advocate committed to bipartisan progress on animal welfare. His insights illuminate the often-hidden legislative process, empowering everyday advocates to be part of meaningful change.Perfect for animal rescuers, pet lovers, or anyone frustrated by the slow pace of reform—this episode shows you how your voice matters more than ever. Don’t wait for change to happen—be the change.About - Senator Nick PisciottanoFoster Spotlight: Wagtopia: Adopt Dogs, Cats, Register Pet Microchip, Geo TagsFind Your PA Legislator: Find My Legislator - The Official Website of the Pennsylvania General AssemblySubscribe to my Newsletter: https://the-foster-files-podcast.kit.com/220e069679https://linktr.ee/thefosterfilespodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/thefosterfilepodcastEmail Me: [email protected] on YouTube: The Foster Files - YouTubeMeet Kelly Motter – CanvasRebel Magazine

Most people don’t realize that investing in prevention and retention can drastically reduce the number of animals entering shelters—and save lives. Kimmi Rasky shares her inspiring journey from fostering to building innovative programs that focus on keeping pets out of shelters altogether. If you’ve ever wondered how focusing on prevention, like accessible spay/neuter initiatives and community training, can transform animal welfare, this episode reveals the powerful strategies behind it.Foster Spotlight: Wagtopia: Adopt Dogs, Cats, Register Pet Microchip, Geo TagsRescue Revival: HomeSubscribe to my Newsletter: https://the-foster-files-podcast.kit.com/220e069679https://linktr.ee/thefosterfilespodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/thefosterfilepodcastEmail Me: [email protected] on YouTube: The Foster Files - YouTubeMeet Kelly Motter – CanvasRebel Magazine

Join Kelly as she explores the fascinating world of gray wolves and wolf dogs at the Wolf Sanctuary of PA. Michelle Vanderneut shares incredible stories about wolf reintroduction, the importance of respecting their wild instincts, and the challenges of managing a sanctuary dedicated solely to rescue and conservation. You'll learn how wolves influence ecosystems — from controlling overpopulating prey to fostering biodiversity — and why they deserve our understanding, not fear.A Treasure Awaits at Wolf Sanctuary of PA - Come Visit Us!Adopt a Wolf from the Wolf Sanctuary of PA - Help Us Help ThemSubscribe to my Newsletter: https://the-foster-files-podcast.kit.com/220e069679https://linktr.ee/thefosterfilespodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/thefosterfilepodcastEmail Me: [email protected] on YouTube: The Foster Files - YouTubeMeet Kelly Motter – CanvasRebel Magazine

Most pet owners underestimate how quickly an incident can escalate when safety isn't a top priority. In this episode of The Foster Files, Kelly exposes the unseen risks that can turn a routine walk or playtime into tragedy—and what every animal lover needs to know to protect their furry friends.Subscribe to my Newsletter: https://the-foster-files-podcast.kit.com/220e069679https://linktr.ee/thefosterfilespodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/thefosterfilepodcastEmail Me: [email protected] on YouTube: The Foster Files - YouTubeMeet Kelly Motter – CanvasRebel Magazine