What if the no-kill movement isn’t saving animals but failing them?
It promised to end unnecessary euthanasia and revolutionize sheltering. But behind the glowing stats and feel-good slogans lies a much messier reality, one most people don’t want to talk about.
In this episode, I sit down with animal welfare expert Daniel Ettinger to expose the unintended consequences of chasing a 90 percent live release rate. From shelters closing their doors to avoid euthanasia to animals being warehoused for years, the system is cracking and those of us on the ground are feeling the weight.
As a longtime rescuer, I’ve seen firsthand how “no-kill” often means no space, no support, and no plan. Daniel introduces a better framework: SMART (Saving More Animals Responsibly Together), a humane, community-based approach rooted in transparency, responsible care, and real solutions.
🎧 By the time you finish listening, you’ll discover:
If you’ve ever felt uneasy about what’s happening behind the scenes in animal rescue, this episode will make you feel seen and give you hope for a more honest path forward.
PS: You might hear us call the show Muddy Paws and Hairballs. That was our old name. Now we’re focused on helping you—the pet parent—not just your pets. You’re in the right place.
Expert Pet Advice for busy pet parents!
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Pet care gets crazy when you're facing behavior issues, rising costs, and confusing pet advice. You need real pet parenting solutions, pet behavior help, and pet budgeting tips you can use every day.
Each week you'll hear pet parenting advice plus expert guidance on dog and cat behavior, dog training, nutrition, stress-free vet visits, and routines that make life easier. We'll help you manage puppy biting, cat aggression, separation anxiety and cat anxiety, emergency vet decisions, and show you how to stay ahead of issues that create stress for pets and their pet parents.
No fluff, no guilt, just practical pet care advice and pet cost hacks to save money, avoid pet parent guilt, and enjoy life with pets.
Follow to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying your pets again.
Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com
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