Keep it Humane

Before Keep it Humane, there was The Humane Roundup — the show that started it all. In this special episode, we bring back two of the original hosts of The Humane Roundup — the voices who helped lay the foundation for the conversations we’re still having today. We revisit where it all began, why the show was created, what was happening in animal welfare at the time, and how those early discussions shaped what the podcast has become. We talk about: The original mission behind The Humane Roundup How the profession has evolved since those early episodes The hard lessons, the proud moments, and the behind-the-scenes stories Why the rebrand to Keep it Humane mattered And what still needs to change in animal control and sheltering This isn’t just a reunion. It’s a reflection on growth — personal, professional, and as a field. If you’ve been with us since the beginning, this one’s for you. If you’re new here, this is your origin story. Because the conversations that shaped this profession didn’t start yesterday. They started with people willing to press record and speak honestly about the work. And that’s exactly what we’re doing again.

In this fun and heartfelt episode, Ashley and I dive into one of the most creative shelter fundraisers we’ve seen yet — the “Neuter Your Ex” campaign from Check out the “Neuter Your Ex” promotion and how it helps community cats. We break down how this playful idea raises funds for spay/neuter programs that reduce feral cat overpopulation, support Trap-Neuter-Return efforts, and ultimately save lives. Plus, we share other practical and impactful things shelters can do right now — from low-cost spay/neuter clinics and community TNR efforts to engaging events and creative donor opportunities that help animals find better lives. Whether you’re a shelter team member, volunteer, or animal lover, you’ll come away with fresh inspiration for making a difference!

In this episode of Keep It Humane: The Podcast, Daniel Ettinger, Ashley Bishop, and Ashlee Bishop sit down with children’s author Marshall Silverman. Marshall reads from his heartfelt book Can I Please Have a Dog and shares the inspiration behind the story. We talk about patience, responsibility, and the powerful connection between kids, animals, and storytelling. It’s a warm, family-friendly episode that highlights how books can spark empathy and meaningful conversations.

In this episode, we sit down with Wayne Pacelle — former President & CEO of HSUS and current leader of two powerful organizations shaping the future of animal welfare: Animal Wellness Action (https://animalwellnessaction.org/) and the Center for a Humane Economy (https://centerforahumaneeconomy.org/). Wayne joins us for a wide-ranging conversation about the current state of animal welfare for dogs and cats in shelters, from the progress we’ve made to the persistent challenges that still demand our attention. We explore how innovative policies, corporate engagement, and data-driven strategies can help reduce suffering, strengthen communities, and create a more humane world for animals in need. Whether you’re an animal shelter professional, advocate, or lifelong animal lover, Wayne’s insights — grounded in decades of leadership — will challenge you, inspire you, and leave you energized about what’s possible when we aim higher for the animals we serve. Learn more: 🔗 Animal Wellness Action — https://animalwellnessaction.org/ 🔗 Center for a Humane Economy — https://centerforahumaneeconomy.org/ Tune in for honest conversation, practical takeaways, and a hopeful vision for shelter animals everywhere.

In this episode of Keep it Humane, Daniel and Ashley sit down with Douglas Starr, Professor Emeritus of Science Journalism at Boston University and longtime science writer, to unpack one of the most polarizing topics in animal welfare today: the no-kill movement and the influence of large national organizations like Best Friends Animal Society. Douglas joins the show to discuss his recent Smithsonian Magazine article, “The Nation’s Biggest Animal Sanctuary Operates Under the Mantra ‘Save Them All.’ How Controversial Is That?”, which you can read here: 👉 https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/nations-biggest-animal-sanctuary-operates-under-mantra-save-them-all-how-controversial-180987638/ Drawing from time spent at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and extensive historical research, Douglas shares what he learned about the ideals, psychology, and politics behind the no-kill philosophy. While acknowledging the dedication of many working within the movement, the conversation explores how language, public pressure, and one-size-fits-all approaches can create unintended consequences for shelters, communities, and public safety. Together, Daniel, Ashley, and Douglas have an honest, nuanced discussion about the harm caused by labels like “kill shelter,” the pressure placed on municipal agencies, the silencing of dissenting voices, and the difficult ethical decisions faced by animal welfare professionals every day. With decades of combined experience, the episode emphasizes the need for balance—prioritizing humane care and community safety, accountability in pet ownership, access to spay and neuter services, and moving beyond slogans toward practical, collaborative solutions. This episode challenges simplistic narratives and invites listeners to think critically about what responsible animal welfare really looks like.

It’s the first episode of Keep it Humane for 2026, and we’re kicking off the year by catching up. Daniel Ettinger, Ashley Bishop, and Ashlee Bishop sit down to reflect on the past year—what challenged us, what surprised us, and what reminded us why this work matters. From lessons learned in animal control and animal welfare to the realities of burnout, leadership, and showing up for both people and animals, this episode is an honest look back at where we’ve been. We also talk about the road ahead: what we’re hopeful about in 2026, what needs to change in the profession, and how we can continue to help people help animals in meaningful, sustainable ways. If you work in animal control, shelters, rescue, or animal welfare—or care about the people doing the work—this episode sets the tone for the year ahead.

In this powerful episode, Daniel Ettinger and Ashlee Bishop sit down with Nina Jackel, founder of Lady Freethinker, for an in-depth conversation about the global fight against animal cruelty and what it takes to create real, lasting change. Nina shares her remarkable journey from freelance journalist to leading an international nonprofit that exposes abuse, funds on-the-ground rescuers, and drives policy change around the world. From shutting down dog meat auction houses in South Korea to helping authorities dismantle a dogfighting ring in Chile—resulting in the longest animal cruelty sentence in the nation’s history—Nina walks us through some of Lady Freethinker’s most impactful victories. The discussion digs into the evolving landscape of online animal cruelty, challenges in prosecuting abuse cases under current laws, and why cross-organization communication remains one of the biggest obstacles in animal advocacy. Daniel, Ashlee, and Nina explore what meaningful collaboration could look like—from local enforcement to global activism—and how summits, networking, and unified messaging could strengthen the field. Listeners will also hear candid personal updates, reflections on leadership in animal welfare, and actionable ways to support Lady Freethinker’s work, including their investigative efforts, global campaigns, and upcoming initiative to tackle social media cruelty in 2026. If you care about animals, accountability, and the future of animal protection, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

In this powerful and eye-opening episode of Keep it Humane: The Podcast, Daniel Ettinger, Ashley Bishop and Ashlee Bishop sit down with Dr. A. Michelle Gonzalez—veterinarian, forensic expert, and host of The Animal Welfare Junction. Dr. Gonzalez has been leading a groundbreaking investigative series on Steffen Baldwin, a self-proclaimed “trainer” whose history of animal cruelty and misconduct has sent shockwaves through the animal welfare community. Together, we unpack the complex layers of this case: • how Baldwin built influence in the dog-training world, • the red flags that were ignored or minimized, • the survivors—both canine and human—impacted by his actions, • and the systemic gaps that allow abusers to hide in plain sight. Dr. Gonzalez shares what she’s learned through extensive research, interviews, and forensic review for her podcast, offering a candid look at how misinformation, inadequate regulation, and industry silencing contribute to ongoing harm. Whether you work in animal control, sheltering, veterinary medicine, law enforcement, or advocacy, this episode provides essential insight into how we can better protect animals, empower victims, and build a safer, more accountable animal welfare landscape. This is an episode you won’t want to miss—honest, unsettling, educational, and ultimately a call to action for all who believe animals deserve better.

While Daniel was somewhere over the Rockies on a flight, Ashlee and Ashley held down the fort and sat down with one of animal welfare’s most respected leaders: Kenny Lamberti. In this episode, Kenny shares insights from his decades of experience in community engagement, shelter operations, and national-level advocacy. Together, they dig into the evolving landscape of animal welfare, the importance of building trust with communities, and how we can better support the people doing the work on the ground. Kenny also talks about leadership, equity in access to care, and what the next generation of animal welfare professionals needs from us. This conversation is packed with honesty, heart, and practical wisdom—perfect for anyone striving to “keep it humane” in their daily work.

In this special throwback episode of Keep It Humane: The Podcast, we revisit one of our most powerful interviews featuring David Hunt from the Ohio Department of Agriculture. David was an avid and skilled investigator of animal fighting cases, dedicating his career to uncovering and dismantling some of the most complex operations in the field. This episode is packed with insight, strategy, and practical tips for animal welfare professionals, law enforcement, and anyone passionate about ending cruelty. David’s deep experience and calm, methodical approach to investigations make this a must-listen for those who want to understand how to identify, investigate, and build solid cases against animal fighters. 💡 Tune in to learn from one of the best — a true professional who helped set the standard for humane investigations and collaboration between agencies.

In this episode of Keep it Humane, Daniel and Ashley explore an inspiring initiative where teens aren’t just learning about animal welfare—they’re actively shaping it. We dig into the story of the Snake River Animal Shelter’s “Paws for a Cause” program, which brought local teenagers into direct service with shelter animals and their community. East Idaho News You’ll hear how the five-week program immerses teens in the world of animal care, advocacy and emotional growth—starting with tours and instruction on humane treatment, engaging presentations from animal control officers and vet techs, and then reaching a hands-on high point: creating enrichment activities for shelter pets and a visit to a nearby assisted-living facility with a shelter dog in tow. East Idaho News We’ll discuss how this kind of humane education benefits everyone involved: For teens: building life skills, emotional health, leadership, and a sense of purpose. East Idaho News For shelter animals: improved socialization, enrichment, and increased chances of adoption. East Idaho News For the community: stronger connections between youth, animal welfare and service. We’ll also unpack how shelters and agencies can replicate or adapt similar programs in their own jurisdictions—even if resources are limited—and how these initiatives tie into larger themes of staff and volunteer engagement, retention, and building culture in animal welfare (something we often talk about on this show). Grab your earbuds, because this conversation brings hope, practical ideas and a reminder that when young people are empowered—and animals are included—the ripple effects can be powerful. Takeaways for listeners: What it actually looks like to run a hands-on humane education program for teens. How to measure and communicate the benefits for all stakeholders (teens, animals, shelters, community). Ideas for adapting the model to your local animal control or shelter setting. Lessons on staff and volunteer culture: empowering younger generations, creating meaningful roles, and building an inclusive “we” culture. Inspiration for turning caring into action—both for the animals you serve, and the people working in the trenches every day.

As Albuquerque faces what some are calling a “kitten takeover,” shelters across New Mexico are stretched to capacity. In this episode, Daniel Ettinger and Ashley Bishop sit down with Val Wilson, Executive Director of Animal Humane New Mexico, to discuss what’s behind the surge in kitten intakes and how shelters can adapt to the changing landscape of animal welfare. Val shares insights from her leadership journey and the innovative strategies her team is using to balance lifesaving outcomes with sustainable operations. From expanding foster networks to improving access to spay and neuter, she explains how collaboration—not competition—is the key to weathering the storm of kitten season. We also explore the human side of shelter work: how to maintain staff morale, prevent burnout, and lead with compassion during times of crisis. Whether you’re an animal control officer, shelter professional, or advocate for community cats, this episode sheds light on what it takes to keep it humane when the kittens take over.

In this episode, Daniel and OG Bishop dive into an inspiring story out of Eastpointe, Michigan, where Animal Control Officer Ashley Sanchez is making a real difference for pets and their owners. They explore how strict city ordinances (Eastpointe spans just five square miles) have been paired with a compassionate outreach program: a pet-food pantry, low-cost vaccination and micro-chip clinics, and a full-service shelter transformation under Sanchez’s leadership. CBS News Daniel asks: what does this approach tell us about community responsibility and the bond between humans and their animals? OG Bishop brings in a personal angle—how reform and empathy co-exist in unexpected places, and how giving even one creature a better chance changes a bigger story. They’ll unpack the article’s key moves (grant funding for free microchips, the “Four-Legged Friends Pantry,” a microchip-scanning station) and reflect on how similar models might work elsewhere. CBS News Listeners will hear about the challenges of animal welfare, the creative pivot from a three-kennel garage to a full shelter under Sanchez’s drive, and leave with practical ideas: how to support local pet-owners in financial stress, how to volunteer or set up a micro-chip clinic, and why enforcement plus empathy is a powerful combo for community change. CBS News Tune in for an uplifting conversation that shows animals’ wellbeing and human community health are more connected than we often think.

In this unfiltered episode of Keep It Humane: The Podcast, Daniel and Ashley drop the script, silence the filters, and just talk. No guests. No agenda. No BS. They open up about the highs and lows of working in animal welfare — the burnout, the wins that keep them going, the moments they’ve doubted themselves, and the people who’ve helped them grow along the way. This is an honest, vulnerable conversation between two friends who’ve seen it all in the world of animal control and sheltering. If you’ve ever felt the weight of the work or questioned whether you’re making a difference, this one’s for you.

In this episode of Keep It Humane: The Podcast, we sit down with Steve Kaufman, former leader at PetSmart Charities and now a respected consultant in the animal welfare space. Steve shares his unique perspective on how access to veterinary care is evolving and why it’s one of the most pressing issues facing shelters, rescues, and communities today. We explore his views on the future of animal welfare, the balance between data-driven strategies and compassion-driven care, and how his consulting work helps organizations build stronger, more sustainable programs. Whether you’re an animal control officer, shelter professional, or advocate for pets and people, this conversation offers valuable insight from one of the field’s most experienced voices.

Join us for a captivating conversation with Arthur von Wiesenberger, the visionary host and executive producer behind AnimalZone. In this special episode, Arthur takes us behind the scenes of the series and shares how his lifelong passion for animals shaped his mission to uplift their stories through media. We dive into: Arthur’s early life, education, and the formative moments that ignited his love for animals The evolution of AnimalZone: its purpose, challenges, and key milestones over more than 130 episodes Telvue Video Player+3Animal Zone+3Animal Zone+3 His journey in motion picture production, and how it intersects with animal advocacy Animal Zone The role of rescue and sanctuary in his personal life — from cats and donkeys to a rescued pit bull named Mikey Animal Zone Highlights from memorable episodes and international shoots — including work in Japan with ARK and projects with regional shelters LinkedIn+1 His vision for the future of AnimalZone: how he hopes it will grow, influence, and continue inspiring audiences worldwide Whether you’re a fan of the show or simply love stories of compassion and creativity, this episode offers an intimate look at how one person’s dedication can bridge entertainment and advocacy. Tune in as Arthur reflects on the power of storytelling to give animals a voice, and encourages all of us to take action in whatever ways we can.

In this episode, we welcome Rachel Bellis from PETA to discuss the organization’s provocative new commercial challenging the “No-Kill” shelter movement and why they believe the approach is failing animals. Based on PETA’s recent feature “What Does Best Friends Animal Society’s ‘No-Kill’ Push Mean for Animals?”, we dig into the realities behind the rhetoric. PETA Rachel walks us through PETA’s critiques: How “no-kill” policies can lead to shelters refusing to accept animals in need and pushing them back into harm’s way. PETA Why simply increasing “live release rates” can mislead the public and mask animal suffering. PETA The consequences of “return to field” programs for cats, and other practices PETA considers misleading euphemisms. PETA Cases and data PETA cites, including shelters that are reportedly warehousing animals, turning away strays, or overextending adoption criteria in ways that may put animals at risk. PETA We also explore potential alternatives: what models might actually address animal homelessness, suffering, and overpopulation—without empty promises. Rachel shares what PETA proposes instead: stronger preventative measures (spay/neuter, banning sales by pet shops), transparency in shelter policies, humane euthanasia when absolutely necessary, and accountability. PETA Whether you support the no-kill movement, are skeptical, or just care about animal welfare, this episode aims to challenge assumptions, bring new data to light, and spark a deeper conversation about what truly helps animals.

In this episode, we sit down with Trevor from Shelterly, a mission-driven nonprofit using technology to transform how communities respond to animal crises. Trevor walks us through the vision behind Shelterly: how the platform streamlines tracking, coordination, and communication in the chaos of disasters. We discuss real-world impact — from wildfire evacuations and mutual aid between animal shelters, to reunification of pets and owners — and explore how Shelterly equips responders with tools to act quickly and efficiently.We also cover the challenges: scaling in the face of diverse needs across counties, building interoperability among animal response teams, ensuring accurate data in stressful moments, and what training and preparedness look like before disaster strikes. Finally, Trevor shares what’s next for Shelterly, and how listeners — whether working in emergency response, animal welfare, or simply animal lovers — can support or get involved.What You’ll Learn:The core features that make Shelterly effective in real emergency settingsHow technology can reduce friction in animal rescue, sheltering, and owner reunificationThe importance of mutual aid, inter-agency collaboration, and training in disaster scenariosHow ordinary people and organizations can help Shelterly’s mission

In this episode of Keep it Humane: The Podcast, Daniel Ettinger and Ashley Bishop sit down with Mary Wakeham, founder of Refuge4Pets.org.uk, an organization dedicated to breaking down barriers for people escaping domestic abuse by providing foster care for their beloved animals. Mary shares the powerful story behind Refuge4Pets, the challenges survivors face when pets are used as tools of coercive control, and how her team offers hope, safety, and new beginnings for both people and animals. Together, we explore the link between animal abuse and domestic violence, the importance of creating safety nets for survivors, and how this model can inspire communities around the world.

In this episode of Keep it Humane: The Podcast, we take a hard look at the viral Beaumont, California video showing an animal control officer roughly handling a dog. The incident didn’t just spark outrage online—it reinforced the very “dog catcher” stereotype that professionals have worked for decades to move beyond. Daniel, Ashley, and Ashlee unpack why this kind of behavior sets the entire field back, eroding community trust and undermining the compassion that should define animal control. Together, they discuss: What we know about the Beaumont case and the city’s official response. How one officer’s actions can fuel damaging stereotypes. The ripple effect of viral footage on public trust in animal welfare. What true professional, humane handling looks like—and how agencies can hold their teams accountable. This isn’t just about one dog, one officer, or one city. It’s about what happens when animal control strays from care and compassion—and how the profession must demand better. Listen in as Daniel, Ashley, and Ashlee confront the behavior that set this controversy in motion and call for a higher standard in animal welfare.