In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of The Fur Real podcast, Shannon Walker, founder of Northwest Battle Buddies, shares the incredible impact of her organization. Since 2011, Northwest Battle Buddies has been transforming the lives of veterans suffering from PTSD by pairing them with specially trained service dogs, known as “Battle Buddies.” With an estimated 22 veterans losing their lives to suicide daily—a rate 50% higher than that of non-veterans—this work is crucial.

Shannon explains the rigorous, months-long training process that both the dogs and veterans undergo to form a bond rooted in mutual support and care. Once completed, these pairs provide each other with unwavering companionship, helping veterans manage the overwhelming and life-altering effects of PTSD.

While PTSD was only officially recognized in 1980, its impact on veterans remains profound and lasting. Although PTSD cannot be cured, programs like Northwest Battle Buddies offer a path to healing, providing hope and resilience to American heroes who carry these invisible wounds daily.

This episode is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming, as Shannon’s passion and dedication shine through every word. It’s a powerful message of hope and the extraordinary connection between veterans and their “Battle Buddies.”

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Have you ever imagined a world where pink dolphins roam the rivers, not just in animated films but in real life? It’s true! In this fascinating and fun-filled episode of Fur Real, I’m joined by Professor Susana Caballero, an expert on these remarkable creatures. Get ready to be amazed as we dive deep into the world of freshwater dolphins, learning that there are actually six dolphin species and one porpoise that call freshwater rivers home.

Professor Caballero reveals incredible facts about these majestic mammals, including how pink dolphins—yes, actual pink dolphins—can blush like humans, turning even pinker when they’re excited! We explore the Amazon Basin and other corners of South America and Asia where these dolphins thrive, uncovering enchanting local myths and legends along the way.

Here’s a taste of what’s in store: One myth claims that if you swim at night, pink dolphins will whisk you away to a magical underwater city, never to return! And don’t miss the legend of the “Boto Encantado.” These dolphins, also called “Botos,” are said to transform into irresistibly handsome men under the cover of night, charming and sometimes even impregnating unsuspecting women.

With captivating stories and surprising science, this episode will make you fall in love with these unique freshwater wonders. Don't miss it—tune in and let the magic of the pink dolphins sweep you away!

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We’re diving into a cutting-edge treatment for pets: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). Did you know this therapy, often used by elite athletes to enhance recovery, is available for our four-legged friends too? But what exactly is HBOT, and what can it do for your pet?

In simple terms, HBOT is a therapy where pets breathe in pure oxygen inside a pressurized chamber. This boost in oxygen saturates their red blood cells, promoting healing, reducing inflammation, and providing relief from a variety of ailments. It’s similar to the chambers divers use when they resurface too quickly and experience “the bends”—only, in this case, it’s for our pets’ recovery and well-being.

Our guest, Teri Swanson, has years of experience with HBOT for animals and guides us through its benefits, explaining how it helps pets recover from injuries, surgeries, and even chronic conditions. If you’ve ever wondered about ways to enhance your pet’s health, you won’t want to miss this enlightening episode!

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When COVID changed the world, actress Dawn Olivieri (Yellowstone) embarked on a life-altering journey. Leaving Hollywood behind, she moved to the rugged landscapes of Arkansas, where she felt called to start something truly transformative: Moon Mountain Sanctuary. What began as a leap into the unknown soon became a powerful mission to rescue horses from kill pens, creating a haven where they could live in peace and safety.

Dawn didn’t ease her way into animal rescue—she threw herself in, heart and soul, saving an entire herd from the start. Her story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the belief that when you follow your intuition, it often leads you exactly where you’re meant to be. Through heartache, grit, and unwavering dedication, Dawn has reimagined what’s possible for horse rescue, offering new hope in an industry where every saved life matters.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes in second chances, purpose-driven work, and the healing power of animals. I can’t wait for you to hear her remarkable story.

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Get ready for a wild and prickly ride in this episode! Have you ever heard porcupines referred to as Quill Pig, Quillback, or Porky? You will now! Join me as I chat with the world-renowned porcupine expert, Professor Zvi Sever, to uncover the fascinating world of these spiky creatures. From their surprising nicknames to their quirky love lives—did you know porcupines are monogamous, and the males take on 54% of the childcare duties?

We’ll dive into the two types of porcupines—New World and Old World—and learn how these animals are found all around the globe, even considered a delicacy in some countries. Plus, you’ll hear how porcupines shed their quills just like dogs shed their hair, with the quills starting soft and becoming the sharp spikes we know them for. But that’s not all! Professor Sever also presents his groundbreaking "Ethics Code for Space" that he delivered to the United Nations, exploring where porcupines fit into humanity’s future in space.

This episode is perfect for curious minds who love animals—and those wondering how our prickly friends might help guide our adventures beyond Earth!

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I’m joined by Kathy Rust of the Vizsla Club of America, a passionate Breeder of Merit with the AKC and perhaps the Vizsla’s biggest fan. Get ready to hear all about why these dogs are truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re looking for a loving, kid-friendly companion or an incredibly intelligent and versatile dog, Vizslas check every box. Kathy takes us on a captivating journey through the breed’s remarkable history, showing us why these dogs are so cherished today.

"Vizsla" comes from the Hungarian word meaning "pointing," but these dogs are much more than just talented hunting companions. From their earliest appearances in ancient paintings and drawings to their rise as the favored dogs of Hungarian aristocrats, Vizslas have a rich and storied past. But their survival hasn’t always been easy. During World War II, Hitler sought to wipe them out to demoralize the locals, and later the Communists targeted them for being a symbol of wealth. The breed was nearly lost, with only about a dozen Vizslas remaining at one point.

Thanks to the resilience and dedication of Vizsla lovers, the breed was saved from extinction. Today, they’re known as "velcro" dogs for their affectionate nature and are beloved for their versatility. Tune in as Kathy shares her deep knowledge and passion for this incredible breed—one that continues to win hearts all around the world.

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In this insightful episode, we welcome Dr. Terry Fossum, a renowned veterinarian and author of the definitive book on small animal surgery, which serves as a go-to resource for many veterinarians. As our pets age, ensuring their comfort and quality of life becomes paramount. Dr. Fossum delves into the strategies and therapies outlined in her latest book "Senior Dogs and How to Maximize Quality Time", exploring groundbreaking alternatives that may surprise you. From innovative treatments to holistic approaches, her expertise provides listeners with a wealth of information on maximizing the precious time spent with their senior pets. Her engaging, compassionate perspective makes this episode not only informative but also heartwarming and incredibly entertaining. Whether you're looking for practical advice or just want to hear about the latest advances in veterinary care, this is a must-listen for all pet lovers.

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In 2003, John Dalley and his wife, Gill, stumbled upon a stray dog while visiting Thailand—a chance encounter that would change their lives and the future of Thailand’s stray dogs forever. From that fateful moment, they founded Soi Dog Foundation, an organization that has spayed and neutered over 1.2 million dogs, more than any other in the world.

With nothing but determination, the Dalleys built Soi Dog from the ground up, now boasting a state-of-the-art veterinary clinic and a mobile vet fleet that’s transforming the country’s stray dog population in unimaginable ways. But their journey wasn’t easy—through tsunamis, natural disasters, and countless obstacles, their story is one of resilience and perseverance at its finest.

In this episode, John shares the incredible highs and heartbreaking lows of their mission. Animal lovers won’t want to miss this riveting tale of compassion and unstoppable drive!

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