The Human-Animal Connection 76 A Shelter Director Speaks

The Human-Animal Connection 76 A Shelter Director Speaks

Author: Pet Life Radio September 14, 2025 Duration: 34:42
Can you imagine running an open-admissions city municipal shelter that has over 500 dogs in a facility built for 235 dogs? That is the job that Steve Kozachik has – Director of Animal Services at PACC, Pima Animal Care Center. And did I mention that there are currently 800 dogs in foster care? And there are 600 cats in foster care. That’s a lot to manage! Hear some of Steve’s hopes, dreams, and frustrations with the situation at this – and many national shelters. The system may be broken, but some small changes are making a huge difference in the lives of shelter animals. Little programs like read to the dogs, take a dog overnight for a pajama party, take a dog out for lunch – a burger, an ice-cream, or a hike in the mountains. Hear some hard truths, but also some exciting possible ideas to improve the quality of life for all shelter animals.

EPISODE NOTES: A Shelter Director Speaks

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Ever notice how your pet seems to know exactly what you're feeling? That silent understanding is at the heart of The Human-Animal Connection-Pet Life Radio Original. This isn't just another animal show; it's a deep, thoughtful exploration of the unspoken bond we share with our companions. Hosted by Pet Life Radio, each episode invites you into a conversation about the subtle ways animals communicate and how we can learn to truly listen. The series is structured around exploring the 33 Principles and Healing Methods of The Human-Animal Connection, offering practical insights and reflective stories that go beyond basic care. You'll hear discussions that touch on family dynamics, cultural perspectives on animals, and the simple, profound lessons our pets teach us about kindness and empathy. Designed for animal lovers of all ages, including families and kids, this podcast creates a space where education meets emotion, all rooted in the belief that our relationships with creatures great and small can be genuinely transformative. Tune in to discover how strengthening that connection can foster a more compassionate world, one conversation at a time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 90

The Human-Animal Connection - Pet Life Radio Original
Podcast Episodes
The Human-Animal Connection 58 How Horses Inspire Our Creativity [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:44
Kate Hawkes was raised in Australia with and by horses! Her father gave her some very wise advice when she was ten years old after a horse “threw her.” He said, “The horse didn’t throw you. You fell off. What were you do…
The Human-Animal Connection 57 Abandoned Dogs Give Hope to Many [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:35
With so many abandoned dogs in shelters, it is easy to lose hope. But for the dogs who do get adopted, lives are changed forever. Not just for the dogs -- but for the people who open their homes and hearts. Katherine Car…
The Human-Animal Connection 53 Animal Wisdom and Returning Souls [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:19
Debbie McGillivray has been a professional animal communicator for over 25 years. She is the author of three books and has worked with clients across the globe, and with wild animals in sanctuaries. She has learned about…
The Human-Animal Connection 52 Teaching Your Dog Rocket Recall [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:06
If you are ever faced with an emergency, are you certain you could call your dog’s name and he or she will instantly return to your side? That is an essential and trainable skill – that can save lives. Lisa Waggoner is a…
The Human-Animal Connection 49 Loving the End of Life [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:03
After being a nurse for thirty years, Karen Thomas followed her childhood dream of creating a sanctuary for dogs with terminal illness. Her goal was to create “the best last days of their lives.” And, since she was an en…