the Intake

Pet Insurance & Peace of Mind: A Shelter’s Secret Advantage

Pet insurance might not be the flashiest topic—but what if we told you it could be the secret ingredient to boosting adoptions, supporting your staff, and building long-term trust with pet parents?In this episode of The Intake, we’re joined by two passionate leaders who know the power of partnership: Maggie McSchaefer, Executive Director of Foothills Animal Shelter, and Brian Jorgensen, CEO of MetLife Pet Insurance. Together, they unpack how a simple benefit—30 days of pet insurance—can make a lasting impact on both adopters and animal shelters.We dive into:How Foothills integrates pet insurance into the adoption journeyThe training they provide to their staff to talk confidently about coverageWhat it’s like to partner with MetLife and the unique support shelters receiveReal-life stories of pet insurance saving the day for new adoptersAnd yes—we ask the ultimate curveball: If pet insurance were a dog breed, what would it be? (Their answers may surprise you—and just might be the most accurate breed comparisons you’ve ever heard.)Whether you’re in animal welfare, vet med, or just want to learn how to give adopters more peace of mind, this episode delivers insight, heart, and practical takeaways.Listen now and discover why pet insurance might be the next big thing your shelter needs.

Alleviating the Licensing Burden & Getting More Pets Home

If you’re an animal welfare professional looking to reduce intake, increase RTO, and provide faster solutions for lost pets and worried families, this episode is for you. Katherine Shenar hosts Front Street Animal Shelter’s Phillip Zimmerman and Jackie Rose of DocuPet.

The Kitten Lady & Orphan Kitten Club Pt. 1

This episode kicks off Part 1 of a 2-part interview with Hannah Shaw, widely known as The Kitten Lady, and Jackie Noble, the newly appointed executive director of Orphan Kitten Club, to explore the unique challenges and rewarding experiences of fostering neonatal kittens. The conversation sparked from the 2024 Hill's Pet Nutrition's State of Shelter Adoptions Report that cites some new information about fostering pets. Together, Hannah and Jackie dive into the essential strategies needed for fostering success—from clear communication and access to training and mentorship, to the vital role of veterinary care and fostering retention. They also spotlight Orphan Kitten Club’s incredible initiatives, including $3 million in grants and providing 1 million meals of kitten formula, demonstrating the profound impact on kitten welfare. Learn how to set realistic goals, build strong community relationships, and celebrate even the smallest victories in fostering programs. Whether you're a seasoned foster or just curious about how you can help save tiny lives, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration!

The Kitten Lady & Orphan Kitten Club Pt. 2

In this episode, we sit down with Hannah Shaw, a/k/a The Kitten Lady, an advocate for cat welfare, especially neonate kittens, and Jackie Noble, executive director for the Orphan Kitten Club, Shaw’s nonprofit she created to help build innovative programs that save the lives of the tiniest and most vulnerable felines.  Shaw discusses the launch of Cats of the World, a stunning new book that features over 700 photos from 30 different countries, capturing the deep connections between humans and cats while highlighting global efforts to improve cat welfare. Shaw also delves into a groundbreaking UC Davis study on neonatal kitten mortality, revealing that many losses are due to treatable conditions. She also shares insights on the innovative CASA method for assessing found kittens, stressing the importance of thoughtful community conversations. Plus, Jackie joins us to discuss her experience with kitten diversion programs and why continued research is vital to improving outcomes for vulnerable kittens. Whether you’re a cat lover or passionate about animal welfare, this episode is packed with stories, solutions, and inspiration!

Not-So-Secret Strategies of 4-Star Foster Programs

Hill’s Pet Nutrition just released their 2024 State of Shelter Adoption Report, with data suggesting there could be gains in exploring our messaging to potential volunteers around foster opportunities. The Association’s Katherine Shenar sat down with three animal welfare professionals who have headed exemplary foster programs that have seen big successes. Listen in as she talks about everything from removing barriers to volunteering to the value of short-term fostering with MSPCA-Angell’s Jacquie McKay, Emilee Smith from Fort Wayne Animal Care & Control, and Suzy Clayton, who created programs at both nonprofit and municipal agencies.