Unmuzzled: A Pawdcast with Sarah Lauch

A few weeks ago, I happened upon a live tik tok where Rachel was doing readings for pet parents. I had briefly seen this before, but wanted to find out more. Much to my shock, anyone can "train" to communicate with animals, you just have to "let them in" by using a sign. Rachel has helped many clients connect with their lost pets and in this conversation, though I had some doubts about this, she tells us that meaningful connection means a lot to grieving pet parents. #petloss #podcast #animalcommunicator

"I am not a believer in exclusion in any way. People have options for access to care, so I can get to as many people as I can. I love helping people and and I love helping animals." Dr. Tom Vega decided to leave Corporate America and has built Concierge Companions Vet Med to help people get access to the vet care they need via a mobile vet unit. For Dr. Vega, the importance of helping as many people as possible AND providing as much care as he can via his mobile truck is paramount. For more: https://conciergecompanionsvmed.com/ Listen to the podcast now at the link in the bio. #conciergevet #vetmed #conciergecompanions #podcast #unmuzzzled

"Birds are not meant to live in cages. Birds should not. be pets."  Pete is an investigator that helps to expose inhumane treatment of animals from farmland to puppy mills and pet stores. This is an eye-opening podcast about bird mills. It is really astonishing how the birds that feed into pet stores live and die, including being suffocating by the breeders. Absolutely awful. This podcast does contain some tough subject matter and photos if you watch on video. For more about SEED investigations: https://www.seedundercoverinvestigations.com/

Wild and Free Rescue is based in Wisconsin and specialized in senior pets and matching adoptable animals with their perfect home. Rachel joins me to discuss the important work their rescue has been doing since 2021. For more: www.wildandfreerescue.org #dogrescue #seniorpets #podcast #unmuzzled #fyp

When creating a brand, there is always a passion wrapped up in it. For Scout's Honor Formulas Founder Whitney, the passion has turned into pride in making the best possible product for his customers. That passion started with the heartache of losing his best friend Scout.  For more: www.scoutshonorformulas.com

Finding a vet that cares as much about your pets as you do, can be difficult. It took me a few tries to find someone who really understood Mac, my 3lb chihuahua. We found Dr. Bean when we really needed him and I am so thankful. Boulevard Vet has not sold out to a huge corporation and remains owned and operated by Dr. Dylan, who you can always reach, if needed. (Sorry Dr. D haaaa) There is comfort in knowing you are like family. This is a great convo with a veterinarian who has guided people through SO MUCH with their pets...all while keeping a calm demeanor and an understanding tone. A great podcast! 

Art therapists are trained to work specifically with people using the medium of art. For people that struggle with traditional therapy, Sarah Vollman is able to reach people in a new way. For humans that have lost a pet, Sarah says this can be a game changer. This is an in-depth conversation with so many great insights. For more on Sarah's book: https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/born-into-loss-9781538172162/

"We have seen some amazing things over the years. Paralyzed dogs that can move again." Swimming and hydrotherapy for dogs is so beneficial. Cindy, the owner of Splash Dog, has a veterinary background and has helped so many dogs heal and enjoy some time in her pool! For more: https://swimatsplashdog.com/

"Just because it is a little different doesn't mean it is more difficult. You just need the confidence to do it." The Bunny Queen Brooke Basaran has cared for rabbits for many years by providing support for rescues and shelters and information for bunny owners. I learned so much in this episode! For more: https://happyrabbitco.org/

"We don't charge a dime to come out and search." Recently, a local man disappeared and unfortunately he still has not been found. The SAR Sheps came in early on to see if they could track Dan Davis. As a nonprofit, they are able to assist with searches at no cost. Taylor has so much knowledge. You will love this podcast. For more: https://thesarshepsoh.square.site/

"You know when you are with a dog you are not being judged."  This is one of those podcasts that could have gone hours. Mary from Happy Hound University has soooo much great dog knowledge. She is my go-to trainer near me and has a great story about how this all came to be. More here: https://www.happyhounduniversity.com/

Grooming is an art and for Gabby finding her passion and launching it into a big business has been one of the best decisions of her life.  A great chat with a great human!  For more: www.gabbythegroomer.com

"It is about letting the dogs get comfortable so they can trust people." Movement Lounge integrates rescue dogs into their space, helping them get adopted. It is a space where you are free to lounge or move with no judgement. Alex and I also have a great conversation about the "new" craze of puppy yoga, which has become very controversial More here: https://www.yogamuttz.com/

"It is a full circle moment." Shopping small and local includes artists who do incredible custom one-of-a-kind gifts. Lindsey Vidmar was inspired to start her business by her dog Mila. Here more about this young artists journey and inspiration in our latest podcast! For more: https://www.instagram.com/milaspaintedpaws/

Trigger WARNING: euthanasia Dr. Murray joins me to chat about in-home euthanasia and everything surrounding it. One of the questions that I get asked the most about how you know when it is time. Follow Dr Murray here: https://www.instagram.com/drmurrayhospicevet/

A holistic approach to pet wellness has taken off. Vuvuv Pet CBD has been at the forefront of research and educating others of the benefits of CBD. Their treats are for cats and dogs and have proven that providing your pet with intergrative care helps them have a long life. A brilliant conversation on CBD for pets AND for humans. For more: https://vuvuvcbd.com/

Intergrative pet care for dogs and cats is on the rise and Dr. Picking is at the forefront of healing and happiness for our 4-legged friends. From acupuncture to laser therapy, she is helping pets have a better quailty of life, giving owners peace of mind. For more: https://www.thevitalsparkrehab.com/

Since 2020, Gabe and his team at Pawster have been helping to KEEP pets safe when their owner is facing a crisis. From loss of home, rehab, domestic violence, and much more, his team of fosters takes in pets when their owners need some time. This is an in-demand program as shelters feel the weight of owner surrenders and high euthanasia rates. Seeing the video of the owners reuniting with their pets brought me to tears! Gabe joins me to tell us all about Pawster. More here: https://pawsternashville.org/

All small businesses start with a passion to change the status quo. Something clicks because you have had an experience and want to make it better. For Kym, it was nutrition for her dog Koko. What started as testing various flavors and combinations has grown into Koko's Kitchen-frozen treats for your pet! Kym is a great guest, who has built a passion into an incredible business. For more: https://treatsbykokoskitchen.com/

"A safe haven for souls in need." YES! The Henry Haven is doing SO MUCH GOOD! Heidi, the Founder, joins me to talk about all the good they are doing in Arkansas and beyond! More here: https://www.thehenryhaven.org/

It is so special to watch an organization grow and change so many lives. Formerly Spay IL, Paws for a Cause has a brand new building and what started as helping people to spay and neuter their pets has evolved into SO much more.  In 2023, 8900 cats and dogs spayed and neutered, but also they have assisted over  252,000 pets, helping out their owners immensely. A great conversation with the Development Manager Matt East! For more: https://pcvetcare.org/

You gotta love vodka that does good for the animals! John Daly backs the vodka that "drives positive change!" Through their charitable arm "Good Boy Foundation, they have given checks to municipal shelters and rescues all over the country. Social Media, Marketing Director Jenna Ashmead joins me! more here: https://goodboyvodka.com/

In 2024: 10 million meals.  4 million pounds of food and supplies.  Rescue Pack is doing so much good for rescues and communities by providing food, supplies, clinics and so much more to people that really need it. Started in 2016, Kathy had built it into an incredible resource for so many and on this episode her and Jessica, the Program Director, BREAK NEWS! For more: www.rescuepack.org

As technology advances, we are able to reach people quickly and easily and for someone facing the loss of a pet, this could be a game-changer. A new platform called Pawprints Care enables users to text with a therapist or doctor about anticipatory grief or pet loss grief. For people that would rather not face someone in a large group or in person, this could be an incredible way to connect about the immense loss they have just endured. One of the Founders Dr. Julie Austin joins me for a candid conversation. For more: https://www.pawprints.care/

"As long as we are alive, we need to live." The Live Like Roo Medical Director sent me an email and said "sit down and watch this with no distractions." The brilliant short film that I watched touched my soul immediately. Renee Baffert joins me to talk about Eben, the inspiration behind the film, as well as her work in pet loss grief counseling. It is a great convo. Watch the film here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bac0xY0hSS8

In 1953, six women noticed an issue with the local "pound" and started to help with resources and education. Now, 72 years later, Hinsdale Humane Society's mission is built around not only saving animals, but providing resources and education in their community. The Director of Development, Erin joins me for a conversation on the big difference Hinsdale Humane Society is making for pets and the people in and around Hinsdale. For more: https://www.hinsdalehumanesociety.org/

Jessica Siegfried is the founder of Pittie Chicks, a clothing brand for pit bull lovers.  She recently collaborated with an author to tell the story of her own dog Bull, with the message of not judging a book by its cover and breaking stereotypes for pit bull type dogs. A great podcast! To buy the book: https://www.amazon.com/Curious-Case-Beefy-Bull-Collection/dp/B0F89FXJNG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1L0WMA14OQXPE&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.qk7d5b9h6_91kZvDxmLeLg.vHwbJbvOW746V-TAaMr3FJZC6DlqDR-vqLxDbDaC1GM&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+curious+case+of+beefy+bull&qid=1750863638&sprefix=the+curios+case+of+beefy+bull%2Caps%2C134&sr=8-1

John Fabiano tired of corporate America and decided to travel the world photographing dogs in their environment. In the process, he snagged the 2024 Documentary Photographer of the Year with a photo he took in Greenland. John is a great example of taking chances.  Another special guest. Thank you John. More here: https://www.instagram.com/fabs5180  Unmuzzled is presented by Yutka Fence, Canine Crews, Bond Vet and Kiki's Korner. 

Mark helped me out in a desperate time needing a photographer for our calendar and what he sent back to me was breathtaking. Mark does a lot of end-of-life sessions and has one of the best eyes for photography that I have ever seen. Mark joins me for a terrific conversation on how tough it can be to shoot these sessions and how he learned photography. For more: https://www.facebook.com/markluther.photos/  Unmuzzled is Presented by Canine Crews, Yutka Fence, Kiki's Korner and Bond Vet 

"I hope we can get our message out and show you how dog food can be made because no one else really wants you to know how they make your dog's food."  With so much buzz about dog food, it is so hard to know what is best for your pet. Matthew Anderson, the Founder of Kibbies dog food, joins me. With a recipe of WHOLE ingredients, delivered fresh, it is easy to see why he decided on this business model. The path here was born out of a love and care for his dog Future Man. Matthew has a ton of insight on the pet food industry and just wants the best for you and your pet! For more: www.kibbies.co Unmuzzled is presented by Yutka Fence, Kiki's Korner, Bond Vet and Canine Crews. 

"What I was not prepared for is the heartache of losing them."  Farm animals are often discarded in some of the worst ways. More and more farm sanctuaries are popping up and doing the really tough work. Freedom Run Farm Sanctuary assists abused and neglected farm animals in Illinois and is hoping to help even more! For more: www.freedomrunfarmsanctuary.com Unmuzzled is presented by Yutka Fence, Kiki's Korner, Bond Vet and Canine Crews. 

"It is so easy to sit behind a keyboard and berate people. Change is possible if people are willing to work with them." Imelda has been a friend of mine for 10+ years and I have watched her blossom into a beautiful human being who keeps evolving. We first met at Chicago Animal Care and Control where she was an Animal Control Officer and I was a volunteer. We each helped the other to save lives. She was a bright spot in a really tough place. Now, she has a new business called Tanimu and advocates for tripods. This is a great conversation and you can tell it is solid because this is my longest podcast. GREAT INSIGHT. For more: https://www.etsy.com/shop/Tanimubodega

"It takes $75,000/month to run the sanctuary." With over 700 in their care Sara (Society for Rescue and Adoption) Sanctuary is often a last stop for animals that would otherwise be euthanized or discarded. Founder Tracy Frank converted her family ranch to a magical place for all kinds of animals including pigs, llamas, dogs, donkeys an so much move. She is a terrific guest. For more: https://www.sarasanctuary.org/ Thank you to our sponsor: Kiki's Korner, Yutka Fences, Canine Crews and Bond Vet. 

"Don't tell them your sorry, tell them thank you. You are helping them."  -Dr. Kent Morton It is never too late to make a career change and for Dr. Morton of Bond Vet, he not only made a switch, but he has made a huge splash in the vet med field with FIP cats and frenchies. Though he has some specialties, being in a general practice WITH urgent care at Bond Vet has taught Dr. Morton that each day brings new challenges, which he absolutely loves. We chat about euthanasia, vet depression, doodles, compassion fatigue and so much more. A terrific guest! For more: www.bondvet.com Unmuzzled is presented by Bond Vet, Canine Crews, Yutka Fence, and Kiki's Korner. 

"You do not have to give up your whole life and have 100 acres to be an animal advocate or to save pigs." Pigs are magical animals. I had a few pet pigs growing up. They are SO smart and the abandoned and abused have been given a 2nd chance with Chicagoland Pig Rescue. They are doing incredible work and are celebrating  years this month, with over 300 PIGS SAVED! For more: www.chicagolandpigrescue.com Unmuzzled is presented by Yukta Fence, Canine Crews, Kiki's Korner and Bond Vet. 

Planting a tree in memory of a beloved pet helps the human grieve, but it is also great for the environment. Trees for Pets started in Australia and has had so much success that it is now available in the US. Marlen Farley joins me for a great conversation on this remarkable business she founded. More here: https://www.treesforpets.com.au/ Unmuzzled is presented by Yukta Fence, Canine Crews, Kiki's Korner and Bond Vet. 

"I would love a dog sanctuary." -says every animal-lover Attorney David Kerpel is making his dream (and thousands of others) a reality in the suburbs of Illinois. As construction starts on an old horse farm, David and his team are busy making sure everything is perfect for their new residents. The key to this sanctuary is that it is just a stop along the way of the dog's journey. The hope is to pull dogs from euthanasia and homelessness and provide a temporary spot for them to land before they are adopted. More here: fureverhomedogsanctuary.org Unmuzzled is presented by Yukta Fence, Canine Crews, Kiki's Korner and Bond Vet. 

Starting a rescue is never easy....starting a rescue in the middle of a shelter crisis is ballsy....but 1 year in and Chicago Rescue Authority (CRA) has proven that they are here to stay. CRA takes many pregnant Moms, as well as many other discards animals... and sometimes they have to make tough decisions. CRA strives for advocacy and education so more people decide to rescue. They have also seen some of the worst breeder cases and have some advice for you if you are looking to buy a dog. For more: www.chicagorescueauthority.org Unmuzzled is presented by Yukta Fence, Canine Crews, Kiki's Korner and Bond Vet. 

Tanya Smith, the CEO of Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge joins me to discuss the incredible work they do with big cats who have been abused and neglected. For more: https://www.turpentinecreek.org/

I remember hearing about cremation by water a few years ago and dismissing the idea. After talking to Founder Phillip Flores Jr, I am not sure I will ever do a fire cremation. Knowledge is power and Phillip does a great job of telling us why water cremation is kinder and greener. For more: https://www.petcremationbywater.com/

From Cage to Couch does incredible work taking broken beagles from labs that were used for testing and giving them back the life thy deserve. Mary, the Founder, and her sister started the organzation as a huge bust happened in 2022. They took in a bunch of beagles that were bred to be used in labs for testing and from there have kept going to save even more. It is a tricky process and with patience and perseverance they have changed so many lives. For more: https://cagetocouch.org/

A few weeks ago, my jaw dropped as a drone operator zeroed in on a lost dog. The drone targeted an area where no one could get to during the search. It was incredible! I reached out to Mike Smith of Smithic Air and he agreed to come chat with me about the work he does with lost pets and beyond. As technology advances, so does the way we are able to search for lost animals and humans. An INCREDIBLE podcast with so much great knowledge. For more: www.smithicair.com Also, a warm welcome to our new sponsors: Yutka Fences, Intuitive Animal Behavior, and Templestowe Pub! And a thank you to our longtime sponsors: Canine Crews, Kiki's Korner, The K9PT! 

One of the questions that I get asked the most is, "do you now somewhere that will take a pet for a few weeks while the owner gets back on their feet?" Ruff Haven Crisis Sheltering in Utah does JUST that. With times really tough, especially the last few years, this organization has changed so many lives. Pets belong with their owner. Kristina is a wonderful guest! For more: https://www.ruffhaven.org/

"There is a universal truth and people that have loved an animal and have been loved by that animal want to give it love, respect and dignity in the end."  Paul Koudounaris book "Faithful until Death" bring a new light to a sometimes difficult topic. This is a great podcast with tons of insight on pet cemeteries, loyalty, and the brilliance of cats! Take a listen at the link in the bio! #pets #podcast #petcemetary #dogs #cats #fyp

"The less human interaction with the animals, the more neglect. The more human interaction, the more violence. At livestock auctions there is constant interaction, so there is constant violence."  Pete and Cailen, from SEED (Strategies for Ethical and Environmental Development) give us the latest on livestock auction investigations and it is SHOCKING and appalling. For more: https://www.seedlivestockauctions.org/

Rescue rides can be the link between death and life. Rachel came up with this idea of Rescueber back in 2019 and has not slowed down since. Rescues, shelters and animal controls from all over the US depend on her to get animals to safety. This is a great podcast with Rachel! For more: https://www.rescueber.org/

"They will have puppies in the back and wiping the snot off their nose and get them out the door." The best way to get to the puppy mill and puppy store problem is to SEE what is going on that is hidden behind closed doors. It is atrocious and inhumane. Thanks to investigators like Pete, slowly but surely, puppy mills are running into more and more laws and crackdowns that impede the work that they do. But they need our help. Knowledge is power. Pete has SO much knowledge because he has seen so much--he has been to over 1000 puppy mills! This is a must-watch/must-listen.  For more: https://www.caps-web.org/  https://www.humanesociety.org/  #dogs #podcast #puppymill #fyp 

 I met Alicia many years ago and we did a lot of cool work in the rescue community, including a calendar with some big name Chicago athletes and quite the opposite --sitting in the chilly weather on a diversion shift at Chicago Animal Care and Control. Now, Alicia has moved back to her hometown where she is making an impact with a children's book, as well as a new brand called The Lake Dog. I LOVE SMALL BUSINESSES! This is a great podcast! For more: www.thelakedog.com

Abby Smith has spent over 2 decades with Felines and Canines and seen so much and done SO MUCH. Moving from Chicago to Alabama to help run a shelter was not easy, but she is doing magnificent work, saving close to 20,000 animals since 2018. And the work in Chicago continues too. We hear what life is like in Alabama and we meet the famous OATIE and hear his story! A great freaking chat, as always with a legend. For more:https://www.felinescanines.org/

"I want their remaining days to be a good quality of life and I think the integrative way is a good way to do it." Dr. Chen of Integrative Pet Wellness Center specializes in integrative oncology. New advancements and incredible education have lead her down a path that is significantly helping pets with cancer, whose owners decide to take a more holistic path. She is also available for virtual advice! It is such an interesting conversation. More here: https://integrativepet.com/