Until we have an audio version, we will be publishing the book in podcast episodes for those of you who would prefer to listen rather than read (or you spend long hours on transport vans!).
What book is this, you ask??? Read on, friend....
Who Will Let the Dogs Out: Stories and Solutions for Shelters and Rescues
Our animal shelters are overwhelmed—and the suffering of dogs is undeniable. But it doesn’t have to be this way. In Who Will Let the Dogs Out, Cara Achterberg offers an urgent call to action and a blueprint for transforming shelters into
true community resources that save both animals and the people who care for them.
Through over 150 visits to shelters across the US and conversations with hundreds of dedicated professionals—animal control officers, shelter and rescue directors, advocates, veterinarians, and volunteers—Achterberg sheds light on the crisis facing shelters today. But more than just exposing the challenges, she offers real, actionable solutions.
This book is not just for shelter staff and advocates—it’s for anyone who believes in the power of change. Who Will Let the Dogs Out is a primer for those new to the cause, an invitation to get involved, and a source of inspiration for those already working tirelessly to save lives. With stories of successful shelters, innovative strategies, and the key ingredients for success—strong leadership, veterinary
access, and community engagement—it’s a celebration of what’s working and a call to scale those solutions nationwide.
Achterberg’s passionate belief in the possibility of change is
contagious, and her unwavering commitment to the cause makes this a must-read for anyone who wants to make a real difference. Together, we can stop the suffering and help the dogs—and the people—who need us most.
We want this book to drive a new conversation about how our shelters can become sustainable places that nurture the animals and become a beloved community resource. Our team is seeking opportunities to give presentations, do Q&As, and/or a book signing.
Available free to shelters and rescues. Email Cara@wwldo.org with name/shelter name/address.
Available to the general public via the website
(whowillletthedogsout.org), Amazon, and to other retailers on consignment.
For more information, contact: Cara@wwldo.org
Who Will Let the Dogs Out goes beyond just raising awareness—it presents practical, achievable ways that every
community can transform its shelter system to save lives. Whether you're a seasoned rescuer or a compassionate animal lover, this book will inspire you to be part of the solution. -C.J. English, author of Rescue Matters.
Who Will Let the Dogs Out is the perfect balance of heartbreaking and hopeful, underscored by the knowledge that things can get better for dogs in need if we pitch in and work together. Achterberg's well-researched book doesn't flinch from the harsh realities of the shelter world, but counters the darkness with a road map that can bring about positive change for the animals (and people!) trapped in the shelter system. A must-read for anyone who loves dogs and wants to make a difference. -Victoria Schade, author of
Who Rescued Who
https://linktr.ee/whowillletthedogsout
For more information visit: