Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty

Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue

We are foster based animal rescue organization out of western Wisconsin where we share educational animal ownership tips and tricks, discuss controversial subjects, welcome guest speakers experts in all things animal- behavioral, veterinary, other rescuers across the country, and share our experiences of running an animal rescue.

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20 episodes
Updated July 24

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Episodes20

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July 24 · 1 hr
Out of the Heat: A Mission of Hope in Texas
🔥 Out of the Heat🔥 A Mission of Hope in Texas☀️🤠 Out of the Heat is almost here! In this week's episode of our Surviving Animal Rescue podcast 🎙️, we're taking you behind the mission that has captured so many hearts and sharing what Out of the Heat is all about. We talk about the "why" behind this lifesaving effort, why we're heading back to Texas, and what it means to step into communities where resources are limited and the summer heat makes an already difficult situation even more urgent for countless dogs. You'll also hear about some of the incredible dogs we've learned about... dogs who are waiting for a chance, fighting to survive, and hoping someone will say "yes" before it's too late. Every story is a reminder of why this mission matters. As we prepare to hit the road next week, we need your help more than ever. Foster homes are the heartbeat of rescue, and every foster who opens their home creates space for another life to be saved. If you've ever considered fostering, now is the time. One "yes" can change everything. Join us as we share the heart behind Out of the Heat, the challenges, the hope, and how you can be part of giving these deserving dogs the second chance they deserve. We can't wait to bring you along on this journey and we hope you'll help us make this year's mission our biggest impact yet! Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
July 3 · 1 hr 7 min
We've Got So Much to Tell You!
There’s a lot happening at the rescue, and we’re taking this episode to catch you up on all of it! From exciting new tools like FiNano Trackers that are helping us keep our dogs safer, to our transition from Google Drive to ShelterLuv to better organize and support our rescue operations, we’re sharing the behind-the-scenes changes that are making a big difference. Stay tuned for our next episode about our Out of the Heat rescue effort, what it means for the dogs we'll be helping, and how our community can get involved. Plus, we'll share plenty of other updates, wins, and stories from the rescue that we can't wait for you to hear. Whether you've been following along from the beginning or you're just joining us, this episode is packed with exciting news and a look at what's ahead for the rescue. Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
June 19 · 56 min
The WHO and the HOW rescue animals get to where they need to be!
In this episode, we sit down with Stephanie J, a valued member of our veterinary clinic team and the coordinator of our internal rescue transport program. Stephanie wears many hats, helping care for animals in our clinic while also organizing the complex network of fosters, volunteers, and transporters that keeps our rescue moving. Whether it's arranging a ride to a routine veterinary appointment or coordinating long-distance transportation to specialty hospitals, Stephanie helps make sure every dog gets where they need to be safely and on time. Join us as we discuss the challenges, rewards, and heartwarming moments that come with coordinating lifesaving care. Stephanie shares what inspires her, the importance of teamwork, and why compassion is at the center of everything she does. This episode offers a glimpse into the dedication that powers animal rescue every day and celebrates one of the incredible people helping make a difference behind the scenes. Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
May 29 · 1 hr 16 min
What are Animal Welfare Conventions REALLY All About?
Some of our leadership team recently traveled to Utah for an animal welfare convention. In this episode, the three of us reflect on the experience, the unexpected lessons we took away, and the conversations that emerged afterward...some educational, some interesting, and some potentially controversial. This episode is about exploring perspectives honestly and asking questions without pretending to have all the answers! Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
May 15 · 1 hr 14 min
Bully Breeds & Big Hearts, featuring Stephanie!
Stephanie wears many hats within the rescue world and at Coco's Heart- Intake coordinator, Rescue Advocate, Creative Mastermind, and Unapologetic American Bully fan! In this episode, we chat about the realities of intakes in animal rescue, the stereotypes surrounding bully breeds, and why education and advocacy matter so much. Stephanie shares her perspective on the incredible dogs she fights for every day, plus the unexpected viral social media moment in her life that had everyone talking. It’s an honest chat, funny, inspiring, and full of love for rescue dogs and the people who give them a second chance! Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
April 28 · 45 min
An Inside Look at our Dog Care Team
In this episode of Surviving Animal Rescue here at Coco's Heart, we sit down with some of the original volunteers and dedicated dog care team who helped shape the dog care program at the rescue from the ground up. What started as a small group of passionate animal lovers quickly grew into a structured, compassionate system focused on giving every animal the safety, enrichment, and individualized attention they deserve. We dive into the early days... what worked, what didn’t, and the lessons learned along the way. From daily routines and behavioral challenges to emotional burnout and big wins, this conversation offers an honest look at what goes into the day to day within our dog care program. Whether you’re a volunteer, foster, rescue leader, or just someone who cares deeply about animal welfare, this episode highlights the people and purpose behind the scenes and why strong dog care programs are the backbone of any rescue. We are always looking for more volunteers to join our dog care team as well. Head over to our cocosheartdogrescue.org website to submit your volunteer application today! Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
April 10 · 1 hr 11 min
Colic, Chaos, and Cargo Vans
Ever wonder what a casual “how’s it going” conversation sounds like at the animal rescue after a week of chaos? Come sit in with us on the Surviving Animal Rescue podcast as we unpack the real, unfiltered moments behind the scenes, where being “busy” doesn’t quite cover it. From a late-night colic scare with our rescued one-eyed mini horse, to somehow becoming master-level Jenga champions while loading cargo vans with just the right mix of kennels… it’s been that kind of week. It’s the kind of conversation where exhaustion meets laughter, where the hard moments sit right next to the wins, and where every story is a reminder of why we keep showing up... for them. Because in rescue, “how’s it going?” is never a simple question… and the answer is always worth hearing. ❤️ 🎧 Tune in and survive the week with us. Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
March 20 · 1 hr 6 min
The Heart that helped build Coco's Heart-Meet Laurie
In this special episode, we sit down with Laurie, a long-time supporter, advocate, and true cheerleader of Coco’s Heart. Laurie has dedicated her life to helping others, and her compassion has left a lasting mark on our organization. From the early days to where we are now, her support, guidance, and unwavering belief in our mission have helped shape Coco’s Heart into what it is today. This episode is a celebration of the people behind the scenes... the ones whose love, dedication, and quiet impact change lives every single day. We also give a heartfelt shoutout to her sister, Linda, whose unwavering support and commitment to fostering and volunteering has been a true backbone every step of the way. Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
March 6 · 1 hr 3 min
The Many Hats of Volunteer Extraordinaire, Connie
In this episode, we sit down with the one and only Connie... a true force behind the scenes at Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue. If there’s a hat to wear, chances are Connie has worn it (and probably three more at the same time). From jumping in wherever help is needed to going above and beyond for the animals and the people who love them, Connie’s dedication is nothing short of incredible. Join us as we talk about her journey with Coco’s Heart, the many roles she plays, and the passion that fuels the volunteer spirit that keeps rescue moving forward. Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
February 19 · 1 hr 9 min
Rooted in Community- Coco's Heart x Windwalker K9 Consulting
What happens when you put two longtime dog-loving small businesses in a room together? Stories, laughter, and a whole lot of heart. In this episode, we’re joined by John Ketzner of Windwalker K9 Consulting, a longtime supporter and friend of Coco’s Heart to reminisce about the early days, share behind-the-scenes memories, and talk about what it’s like growing alongside one another in the Twin Cities dog community. John is always a joy to talk to and even better to listen to. If you’re in the Twin Cities and looking for top-notch boarding or training, he’s someone we trust and recommend wholeheartedly. Season 2 of the podcast is all about our partnerships we have developed over the years so stay tuned for others to come on and share their stories! Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
February 5 · 1 hr 7 min
All Things Cat Purr-ogram w/ Kassie!
In this episode, we sit down with our Cat Coordinator, Kassie and talk all things cats and kittens! But wait, aren't we JUST a dog rescue? Nope! Coco's Heart Dog Rescue has been welcoming kittens since our doors opened in 2010. This year we have some fun program updates and changes in the works and we sit down with Kassie to share some of that as well as what fostering cat and kittens is all about. We also touch on some controversial topics with felines both in rescue and the community environments. This episode is the cat's meow! Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
January 22 · 44 min
It's probably about time we introduce our host of the show!
We got all the way through season 1 and realized, we never formally introduced you to our host of the show, JoHanna! She has been with Coco's Heart Dog Rescue since 2014 where she started volunteering in small ways that overtime with lots of hard work and commitment emerged into the role she is today as Daily Operations & Adoptions Program Manager, Webmaster, Barn Boss of our mini horse program, and Podcast Host. Wearing multiple hats is sort of her thing... Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
January 12 · 2 min
What is coming up for Season 2?!
We are jumping into 2026 full of excitement for season 2 of our Surviving Animal Rescue podcast here at Coco's Heart Dog Rescue. Welcoming new guests including authors, professionals in the animal welfare industry, partner organizations of ours across the country, all with stories to tell! This will be a fun and engaging season and we cannot wait to share it all with you! Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
Dec 18, 2025 · 1 hr 7 min
That’s a Wrap...Closing Out Season 1 & Stepping Into 2026!
We’re wrapping up season 1 by gathering around the team table with our Foster Coordinators and Behavioral Support Coordinator to talk all things 2025! Tune in for unforgettable rescue moments, standout animals, honest conversations about some challenges, lots of laughs, and even some surprisingly great burger recommendations from our transport journeys! Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
Dec 11, 2025 · 1 hr 11 min
Laughs, Fun, and a Giant Newfie- The Erica Epsiode!
Buckle up because in this episode, we welcome the one, the only, the walking burst of sunshine herself- Erica! For years, Erica has been a powerhouse at Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue, pouring her whole heart (and often her sanity) into saving animals and supporting the people around her. She’s the friend everyone wishes for, the person everyone loves, and someone with a contagious smile and laugh. Join us for dramatic rescue tales, behind-the-scenes chaos, and enough laughter to qualify this episode as a core workout. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when compassion meets comedy… this is your moment! Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
Dec 4, 2025 · 50 min
Understanding Canine Distemper
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Derr, a veterinarian specializing in behavior, and the Director of Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue to break down one of the most serious and often misunderstood canine illnesses- distemper virus. Together, we explore how the virus spreads, why timely vaccination is critical, and what treatment and supportive care look like for affected dogs. Dr. Derr also sheds light on the behavioral and neurological impacts distemper can leave behind, as well as how rescue organizations can support dogs through rehabilitation. We share real-life experiences caring for dogs with distemper and discusses community actions that can help stop outbreaks before they start. Whether you’re a pet parent, a foster, or a rescue advocate, this conversation gives you the science, stories, and practical tools to better protect dogs in our communities. Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
Nov 20, 2025 · 51 min
A Volunteer Who Does it All- Meet Karmen!
In this episode, we sit down with Karmen, a wonderful Foster Mentor, foster extraordinaire, and supporter of Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue. Known for her creativity, patience, and unwavering dedication, Karmen has helped dogs of every background, from overwhelmed momma dogs to dogs who need extra behavioral support. Alongside her husband, she forms a true dynamic duo within the rescue, tackling challenges with compassion and innovative problem-solving. Together, they’ve guided countless dogs toward confidence, healing, and their forever homes. Join us as Karmen shares her journey into fostering, her most memorable experiences, the behavioral strategies she has worked through, and what it takes to support dogs who need a little extra love. This is an inspiring look at the heart, teamwork, and resilience behind the work of fostering and the powerful difference it makes. Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
Nov 13, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
The Making of a Crisis: How Humans Shaped Animal Overpopulation
The animal overpopulation didn’t happen overnight...it’s the product of centuries of breeding, fashion, and fascination. In this episode, we talk about how “designer” dogs became status symbols, how pop culture fueled demand for specific breeds, and just how many decades this has been going on for. From Victorian breeders to viral TikToks, we dive into human trends that play a direct factor on the overpopulation in animals specifically in the US. Do you have more examples of pop culture contributing to the demand of certain animals? Share your thoughts with us by reaching out to the rescue! Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
Nov 6, 2025 · 49 min
Out of the Cold: Part 2- Saving Lives Before Winter’s Grip
In this two part series, we conclude our discussion on all things Out of the Cold. Sitting with our Foster Coordinators and talking about how much goes into this historic annual rescue effort. As temperatures drop, our team gears up to help hundreds of animals from harsh winter conditions across rural North Dakota. Hear how a massive community effort comes together, from logistics and long drives to late-night intakes... all driven by the shared goal of giving every animal a warm, safe place to call home. Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram
Oct 30, 2025 · 1 hr 6 min
400+ Animals Welcomed to Rescue. One Weekend. Out of the Cold.
No single person can help 400+ animals alone...it takes a village. In this episode, we shine a light on the volunteers, transporters, fosters, veterinarians, and community partners who come together to pull off our largest rescue effort of the year, Out of the Cold. One year, the need was higher than ever before and the Coco's Heart Dog Rescue community came together to welcome 400+ animals to rescue in one weekend. In this episode, we take a look back at how it all began, the early days of this incredible rescue effort, the evolving language and understanding around animal welfare, and the partnerships that made it all possible. From long road trips and sleepless nights to joyful adoptions and wagging tails, this is a heartfelt reflection on what it means to truly come together for animals in need. Join us as we share behind-the-scenes stories, lessons learned, and how compassion continues to drive this annual effort forward... one rescue, one volunteer, and one animal at a time. Support the show View our Coco's Heart rescue merch swag HERE! We are social on both Facebook & Instagram