Steve Hindi–founder of SHowing Animals Respect and Kindness (SHARK), a national animal welfare organization concerned with halting and/or educating the public about pigeon shoots, rodeos, bullfighting, and canned hunts, among other issues—recounts the extended process by which he transformed from avid fisherman and hunter to passionate animal advocate. In his telling, this metamorphosis was lengthy, involving arduous self-examination—grappling with a deep family-culture tendency toward fishing and hunting, and decades he’d devoted to those activities—while seriously unnerved by witnessing a pigeon shoot. Indeed, Hindi explains, trauma generated by observing the pigeon shoot inspired this self-examination and, ultimately—by the time he saw another pigeon shoot a year later–profound change. He goes on to elaborate on this path toward transformation, noting the trickiness within his family—for example, Hindi’s brother remained  a devoted hunter, while he recalls his wife would sometimes accompany him on fishing outings, asking him if he felt bad about his angling. Doing a lot of shark fishing, he remembers starting to feel haunted by sharks’ eyes. Having mentioned in another part of this conversation that SHARK is seen as early innovators among animal welfare entities in employing technology—including drones and extensive use of video–to carry out investigations and document various forms of cruelty and abuse, a caller acknowledged she was previously unfamiliar with SHARK, but implored Hindi to stop putting graphic footage online. The caller explained that she felt once these types of visuals were posted online, untold numbers of people—including unintended viewers–could be deeply disturbed by them, couldn’t unsee them, essentially, and in that way, functioned in a counter-productive way. Hindi countered that upsetting footage is precisely the point, saying if the graphic clips helped SHARK affect change—and save animals—he could live with some folks experiencing nightmares. The caller’s counter response included suggesting that, in this increasingly Artificial Intelligence-oriented era, people may doubt that the footage they’re presented is real to begin with, minimizing its impact. A subsequent caller criticized the first caller’s position, arguing that she may be a “troll,” and underscoring Hindi’s reasoning that war correspondents’ ongoing coverage of a given conflict—often including graphic detail—has often been the primary factor in ultimately ending many wars. This discussion became an extended segment—as did the previous conversation about his transformation—but we certainly explored other topics, ranging from how the SHARK operation is funded, to its current campaign ending steer tailing in Illinois; steer tailing is the practice in which a person on horseback pursues a running steer, grabs its tail, and attempts to bring the animal to the ground. (https://sharkonline.org/) ALSO: l spoke with John Thomas, also known as “The Vegan Bodybuilder”—he’s an enormously popular influencer in the vegan and bodybuilding spaces—who was then slated to emcee the Food Demos presented at the Tampa Bay Veg Fest, happening Nov. 8 at Perry Harvey Sr. Park. Thomas recounts his 20 years as a vegan, and the consulting services he offers under his Vegan Squad Coaching umbrella. He touches on the role he’ll be playing at Veg Fest, introducing the chefs offering Food Demos throughout the day, and delivering other aspects of serving as the event’s host. (https://www.tampabayvegfest.com/food-demos/), https://thebodybuildingvegan.com/)   COMEDY CORNER: Nick Di Paolo’s “Animal Activists” (DS edit) (https://www.nickdip.com/) MUSIC: Rebekah Pulley’s “Talking Animals Theme” NAME THAT ANIMAL TUNE: The Tokens’ “The Lion Sleeps Tonight (Wimoweh)” AUDIO ARCHIVE: Listen Online Now: https://talkinganimals.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/TANOV5Final.mp3 | Open [...]

Joshua Lisbon–a researcher/educator/storyteller at the center of a new PBS/Nature documentary, “Willow: Diary of a Mountain Lion”—describes his background and experience (and academic training) before working on the 10-year study that formed the core content of this doc.Tongue partly in cheek, Lisbon tried to dismiss his education-heavy history as “wrong” for this project. But given how illuminating—often revelatory—the film is, it’s hard not to view Lisbon’s pedagogy-oriented resume as pivotal to the stellar outcome. We discuss one notable trait of the study that quickly emerges in the film: how noninvasive, “hands off,” the research was— early in the documentary, Lisbon says he and his colleagues “don’t handle cats, don’t collar cats, don’t want to disturb them in any way.” We explore how they decided on that approach, who made that decision, and why. I ask Lisbon if the results generated through this method strike him as more pure than employing more intrusive techniques….These animals sporting no collars, or other tracking devices, brings us to an intriguing question: To what extent are there research challenges posed by many mountain lions looking very much alike—at least, to a layman like myself? Which is to say: With these cats lacking distinguishing traits—like spots or stripes—how do you identify one mountain lion from another? Lisbon responds that it revolves around closely scrutinizing footage, testing genetic material, and other variables. I observe that a major factor in what makes the film so magical is the often-dazzling footage—with remarkable access and proximity chiefly to Willow and her kittens, but also presenting up-close looks at other animals, including foxes, bears, wolves, elk, bobcats, skunks, and wolverines. This visual bonanza is the product of numerous cameras…as if someone had mused aloud, “if five cameras are good, 50 are better—and 150 cameras are even better than that….” Lisbon points out that he and his colleagues consider the study—again, 10 years in the making—now complete, and that the results won’t be published in a journal; in this case, “Willow: Diary of a Mountain Lion” serves as the journal. (https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/about-willow-diary-of-a-mountain-lion/33397/) [Photos by Colin Ruggiero] ALSO: I spoke with Myriam Parham, the co-founder and president of Florida Voices for Animals, which amongst a broad portfolio of protests, campaigns and other objectives, produces the annual Tampa Bay Veg Fest. This year’s Veg Fest–the 13th annual edition—is set to take place Nov. 8, from 11am to 5pm, at Perry Harvey Sr. Park. Parham outlines the impetus for launching Florida Voices for Animals, and the reasons the organization created, and continues to present, Veg Fest. She emphasizes that one guiding principle is the fundamental importance of supporting vegan restaurants and other businesses—both those operating as vendors at Veg Fest, and those located elsewhere. Parham highlights an array of this year’s other Veg Fest offerings, including live music, speakers (among them, Dr. Crystal Heath, my guest on the Oct. 15 “Talking Animals”), yoga, cooking demos, and more. (https://www.tampabayvegfest.com/)   COMEDY CORNER: Myles Anderson’s “Mountain Lion” (DS edit) (https://www.mylesandersoncomedy.com/) MUSIC: Rebekah Pulley’s “Talking Animals Theme” NAME THAT ANIMAL TUNE: We didn’t play “Name That Animal Tune” today. AUDIO ARCHIVE: Listen Online Now: https://talkinganimals.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/TAoct29Final.mp3 | Open Player in New Window

Andria Gibbon–founder and president of Protecting Paws for Life, a nonprofit Florida organization dedicated to helping more domestic violence shelters become pet-friendly–recalls, as a young woman in New Jersey, her transformative first foray into animal rescue, never imagining she’d still be doing it 27 years later. In a conversation pegged to October being Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Gibbon elaborates on her rescue experiences over the course of those years, undertaking various aspects of that enterprise as she relocated to Texas, back to New Jersey, then to Florida—noting that during the Texas stint, she briefly ran her own rescue. She answers inquiries about what rescue policies or philosophies have changed most significantly over her 27 years—and what she likes best about working in rescue. Recounting the arc of her rescue history dovetails with Gibbon’s endeavors to formalize her canine connection and expanding expertise with studies: Becoming a Certified Advanced Canine Trainer and Behavior Specialist. Gibbon discusses yet another related hat she wears, owner of Heart Canine Care, an entity described as “focused on keeping families together that are facing behavior challenges with their dogs.” This eases into a more detailed exchange about Protecting Paws for Life, noting that fewer than 20% of domestic violence shelters nationwide accept pets. This presents a serious obstacle for survivors, who often won’t relocate to such a shelter without their pets, and feel just as strongly about not leaving the animals at the home where the abuse takes place. I review with Gibbon that, in 2018, I reported and co-wrote a Washington Post story on this topic, optimistically suggesting in the article a growing trend nationally toward more domestic violence shelters permitting pets. Heck, the headline on the Post piece was: “Little by little, domestic violence shelters become pet friendly.” And the headline was certainly true at the time. However, what Gibbon and I were lamenting, seven-plus years later, was how slowly that progress is moving. Still, as Gibbon outlines, Protecting Paws is putting its best foot (paw?) forward seeking to mitigate this hurdle, extending its support–during its relatively brief existence—into shelters across eight Florida counties, and forging alliances with entities such as Harmony Vet Care, BestyBnB, and Pinellas County Animal Services. Other inroads that we talked about include creating foster arrangements for survivors and their animals—implemented with protections that prevent the parties from knowing identifying details—and holding supply drives, like the one running through October—aiming to collect a variety of pet items, including food, bedding, crates, dog and cat toys, and litter. (https://protectingpawsforlife.org/)   ALSO: I spoke with Jennifer Langston, founder of Golden Ears Sanctuary and Rescue, a specialized refuge for senior, hospice, and disabled dogs, located in Wesley Chapel, FL. Langston provided a brief overview of Golden Ears, including launching the sanctuary in 2019 in her home, where she continues to operate Golden Ears. She acknowledges that she’s regularly approached about prospective new residents, and with limited space, outlines the criteria she employs for deciding when to take in these canine candidates. She clearly loves her work, loves these dogs, while facing a steady string of veterinary bills, food bills, and other expenses. She explains that Golden Ears is funded by private donations, and the occasional fundraiser—like the upcoming 7th Annual Barks, Bags n’ Brews cornhole tournament, slated for Nov. 8, at Tiki Cove, 2700 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in . Langston recognizes not everyone plays cornhole, but makes clear that this non-playing contingent is still very much invited to participate by enjoying the food and drink on hand, and watching the tournament. To register for Barks, Bags n’ Brews and/or donate to Golden [...]

Dr. Crystal Heath–a veterinarian who’s bristled at inhumane treatment of animals throughout her career, and before, dating back to her childhood as a 4-H kid discovering the goats she’d raised would be slaughtered—recalls growing up in a rural part of Northern California, adoring animals and riding horses. Dr. Heath, a speaker at the Tampa Bay Veg Fest, Nov. 8–delivering a 1pm talk entitled, “Bridging the Divide Between Activists and Veterinarians”–observes that her 4-H experience, alongside some early exposure to some PETA literature, and members, helped shape her outlook and sensibility regarding animal welfare. Horses were a particular passion in her formative years, and she recounts that, at age 17, she moved out of the family home, relocating to Carmel, to train horses, and had two horses while in college. Over time, Dr. Heath says, her feelings about horses shifted, and she no longer owns or rides them (though she remains involved in horse rescue.) She opines on the defects of veterinary school education, hers and others’, where the current curriculum even at top vet schools—including Heath’s alma mater, UC Davis—involve dissection and killing animals. During her time as a vet student, Dr. Heath declined to participate in those activities. Part of her slate of advocacy seeks to eliminate those elements from vet schools’ curriculum, aiming to keep pace with medical schools, which have phased out procedures on animals in favor of digital modules. Having put in stints as a shelter veterinarian, as well as at small animal practices, Dr. Heath explains that she’s currently devoting her practicing time to performing spay/neuter surgeries, reflecting her belief that concentrating on implementing those procedures as widely as possible, to help mitigate overcrowded shelters, or pet overpopulation overall. We also touch on, among many other topics…Our Honor, a nonprofit supporting veterinary professionals in promoting ethical practices for which she serves as executive director…how she would react to being described as a “whistleblower” and what those using that term were referring to…and a sneak preview of the lecture she’ll deliver at Tampa Bay Veg Fest. (https://www.instagram.com/dr.crystalheath/?hl=en, https://www.ourhonor.org/, https://www.tampabayvegfest.com/) ALSO: I spoke with Leah Biery, Executive Director of Education at Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center, which is presenting an event this Saturday, Oct. 18, called “Boo On The Bay,” described as a Halloween-themed event where science meets seasonal fun.” Biery offers an overview of the Discovery Center, an educational facility on the St. Pete Pier that features interactive exhibits, a touch tank with live animals, and educational programs about various aspects of Tampa Bay. She notes the Center is heading into the portion of the year when they present several events, including “Boo On The Bay,” slated to take place on Oct. 18, 11am to 3pm, at the Center, replete with an array of activities—among them, encounters with animal ambassadors about which Biery is mysterious, in what sounds like a fun-filled day. (https://www.tbwdiscoverycenter.org/) COMEDY CORNER: Brian Regan’s “Doctors & Veterinarians” (https://brianregan.com/) MUSIC: Rebekah Pulley’s “Talking Animals Theme” NAME THAT ANIMAL TUNE: The Beatles’ “I Am The Walrus” AUDIO ARCHIVE: Listen Online Now: https://talkinganimals.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/TAOct15Final.mp3 | Open Player in New Window

Kirk Johnson—paleontologist, Sant Director of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, and onscreen narrator of “Walrus: Life on Thin Ice,” a documentary that airs Oct. 22 in the season premiere of the PBS series “Nature”—recalls a research opportunity as a grad student some 40 years ago, involving walruses. It was, he says in the film, “love at first sight.” It’s clear, as “Walrus: Life on Thin Ice” unspools, that Johnson remains smitten with these tusked mammals, an affection that viewers are likely to find contagious. While the doc functions as a love letter of sorts, it can be seen fundamentally as an exploration of the impact of climate change on walruses–particularly shrinking sea ice, given the way they rely on that ice for feeding, breeding and more. We discuss how, for many years, we’ve heard various concerns expressed about polar bears and diminishing ice, but I wonder to what extent he feels walruses’ similar plight may be flying under the radar. Johnson agrees with that assertion, while noting that polar bears and walruses are notably different creatures with differing abilities to adapt to diminishing ice. Indeed, when I later speak to the segments of the movie cumulatively addressing the global warming influence on the walruses’ existence suggest we’re heading for a dire scenario, he gently counters that assertion. Weighing in, of course, from the perspective of a paleontologist—where the long view is often measured in millions of years—Johnson explains that there were a number of previous walrus species, including one that lived in warm water in San Diego. So, with a walrus having history living without ice, Johnson contends they conceivably could do it again—so would not characterize the animals’ future prospects as “dire.”  We touched on some of the other elements of “Walrus: Life on Thin Ice”– which I consider a cinematic mosaic—including walruses’ prodigious clam consumption and impressive technique for doing so (no clam shells were broken in the making of this meal)…the rescue and rehabilitation of an orphaned pup, dubbed “Little Miss Walrus,”…we’re introduced to two wardens who spend the Spring and Summer on Round Island (the oldest wildlife sanctuary in Alaska), conducting a daily census of walrus arrivals and departures, and so on….(https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/episodes/season-44/) [Photos: PBS Nature] ALSO: I spoke with Amy Crosby of St. Francis Society Animal Rescue, who described the rescue’s history, dating back to its founding in 1997, as well as its mission, citing some eye-popping yearly figures regarding number of cats St. Francis has fostered (1700) and feral cats the organization has Trap-Neutered-Returned (1500). Operating without a brick-and-mortar facility, Crosby explained how St. Francis maintains arrangements with an array of pet stores across the Tampa Bay Area, from which to offer their fostered cats for adoption. She notes St. Francis Society Animal Rescue is a strictly volunteer operation, and is currently served by 200 active volunteers. Crosby also outlines the key elements and details of “Life Amplified: PURRRFECT—A Night of Music, Laughter, and Pawsitive Vibes,”an event Life Amplified is producing Nov. 1 at The Studio at Carrollwood Cultural Center, with all proceeds going to St. Francis Society Animal Rescue. Attendees are invited to wear their finest cat-inspired or black-and-white attire. (https://lifeamplifiedshowcase.com/, https://www.stfrancisrescue.org/)   COMEDY CORNER: Joe Zimmerman’s “Birdwatching” (https://www.zimmermancomedy.com/)  MUSIC: Rebekah Pulley’s “Talking Animals Theme,” instrumentals NAME THAT ANIMAL TUNE: We didn’t play “Name That Animal Tune” today. AUDIO ARCHIVE: Listen Online Now: https://talkinganimals.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/TAOct1Final.mp3 | Open Player in New Window    

Stephanie Boydston–founder and director of Love Life Animal Rescue & Sanctuary, a refuge in Myakka City, FL devoted to rescuing, rehabilitating and re-homing farmed animals—recalls a childhood in Long Island, NY amidst a string of foster animals, reflecting her father’s belief that family members should become accustomed to saying goodbye to animals. These were mostly cats and dogs, which Boydston enthusiastically remembers loving equally—though eventually, begrudgingly, reveals a senior feline named Willow was her fave in those days. A pivotal part of the Stephanie Boydston narrative was, while still going to school in NY, she began snowbirding, bouncing back and forth from Fort Lauderdale and other parts of Florida. While some of those stints involved bartending or other food & bev gigs, she ultimately landed her “dream job”: working in development for Make-A-Wish, the well-known, national nonprofit based in south Florida. Boydston was initially drawn to Make-A-Wish tied to a close friend who became seriously ill, and later died. But her work for the organization yielded fundraising experience, nonprofit knowledge, financial acumen, and other skills—all rather singular in the realm of those who run rescues and/or sanctuaries. Another central element of the Stephanie Boydston story was starting to volunteer at Good Karma Pet Rescue, in Fort Lauderdale, and while there, a litter of 10 potbellied pigs arrived. She found homes for eight of those pigs, but the other two ended up living with Boydston, setting in motion a transformative experience that–some years and many, many animals later—led to the launching of Love Life Animal Rescue & Sanctuary. The Sanctuary spans 10 acres, and currently houses 211 animals, including goats, chickens, rabbits, dogs, cats, and pigs. Lots and lots of pigs. That’s quite a menagerie, the care and feeding of which Boydston chiefly handles solo. She says her monthly nut to look after those 211 animals, and other expenses, runs $6200. To contribute to that ongoing outlay, inquire about volunteering, look into adopting a current resident, meet those animals, and so on, you can visit the website: https://www.lovelifeanimalrescue.org/ ALSO: I spoke with Kris Porter, founder of Owl’s Nest Sanctuary for Wildlife, an Odessa, FL-based rescue and rehabilitation organization that tends to sick, injured, or orphaned wild birds, wild mammals, reptiles, and more. A former zoologist at Busch Garden, Porter explains she launched Owl’s Nest Sanctuary in her home, has since relocated to its own freestanding facility, and is fast approaching its 10th anniversary. The demand for help with injured or ill wildlife is relentless, with calls and messages pouring in throughout each day. Porter notes that the operation is funded strictly by donations. On a related note, she also discusses Echoes of the Wild, Owl’s Nest’s first-ever Gala, benefitting the Sanctuary—and taking place Saturday, Oct. 4 at the Italian Club of Tampa. (https://www.owlsnestsanctuaryforwildlife.com/, https://www.facebook.com/owlsnestsanctuaryforwildlife/) COMEDY CORNER: Eddie Izzard’s “Horse Whisperer” (https://www.eddieizzard.com/en) MUSIC: Rebekah Pulley’s “Talking Animals Theme” NAME THAT ANIMAL TUNE: We didn’t play “Name That Animal Tune” today. AUDIO ARCHIVE: Listen Online Now: https://talkinganimals.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TASept24Final-1.mp3 | Open Player in New Window

Father Andrew Heyes, Rector of St. Clement’s Episcopal Church in Tampa—a uniquely canine-centric man of the cloth, rarely going anywhere without his Doberman, Humphrey, at his side, sometimes including the altar—recalls growing up in Northwest England with the first of a lifelong string of dogs. He remembers a decidedly pro-animal ethos amidst his family (he notes that relatives bred dogs) that he absorbed and then projected as he moved forward—school, seminary, churches he worked at before landing at St. Clement’s in 2006. He describes in glowing terms what he encountered at St. Clement’s upon that arrival, emphasizing how welcoming, warm, and friendly everyone was, and even then—the better part of 20 years ago—many of those working and worshipping there were clearly animal people. Still, even a whip-smart pooch like Humphrey (whom Father Heyes enlisted to write a periodic blog for the church website) might not have predicted that St. Clement’s would evolve into the singularly fauna-friendly church that Heyes leads today. Toward that end, while many churches offer a Blessing of the Animals, St. Clement’s version, slated for Oct. 4, amounts to a full-blown production—as Father Heyes describes it–more like a festival, with assorted booths and tables, offering various products and services, animals available for adoption, all kinds of food, pet CPR training, face painting, and more. This Blessing is, in no way, limited to dogs and cats, but welcomes all of God’s creatures–Father Heyes says he’s blessed critters ranging from stick insects to skunks. We go on to discuss other St. Clement’s components that distinguish it as a safe haven for animals and their humans, including the People and Pets Ministry, which seeks to keep people and their pets together, even under financially-challenging circumstances, including providing pet food (and some veterinary care) to at-risk families. Plus, “Bring Your People to Church,” in which, on the third Sunday of each month, St. Clement’s invite parishioners to bring their animals to attend services, affording people the opportunity to worship alongside their pets. Under the watchful eye of Humphrey, lounging at Father Heyes’ side in the WMNF studio, we talk about his love of Dobermans—including Humphrey’s predecessors. And how when parishioners seek his counsel, for grief or other significant matters, he’s learned those sessions tend to be most effective when both he and the parishioner direct their comments through the dog. Lastly, we explore Father Heyes’ previous life as a rocker, serving as lead singer and guitarist for a Genesis-like progressive rock band; this was before he attended seminary. During this part of the conversation, for the first and only time, Humphrey looked genuinely befuddled….(https://stclement.net/)   ALSO: I spoke with Fluffy Cazalas, the President of Full of Cattitude, a cat rescue in Ruskin, Florida. She described some of the work Full of Cattitude undertakes, including remaining undeterred by major (and expensive) veterinary procedures for one of its feline charges. She noted that she’s a lifelong rescuer—not just of cats, but any animal needing help. And she confirms that as the leader of a cat rescue, her name is not too good to be true—her legal name is Fluffy. Additionally, she touches on CATstravaganza St. Petersburg, the sprawling feline-minded event slated to happen that Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Coliseum in St. Pete–Full of Cattitude planned to participate. Cazalas observed that the cat show component doesn’t just feature the expected purebred contestants, but also makes room in the competition for rescue kittys. (https://www.fullofcattitude.org/, https://lovingcatsworldwide.com/) COMEDY CORNER: Amir K’s “My Dog Talked To Me” (https://amircomedy.com/) MUSIC: Rebekah Pulley’s “Talking Animals Theme” NAME THAT ANIMAL TUNE: We didn’t play “Name That Animal Tune” today. AUDIO [...]

Dr. Melissa Miller–a wearer of multiple University of Florida hats: research scientist, wildlife ecologist with the school’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, lead investigator on a project that employs Artificial Intelligence technology seeking to halt the growing population of yet another invasive species, the Argentine Black and White Tegu—describes some of the tasks associated with each of those hats. Miller also outlines some of the research projects she’d undertaken before tackling the Tegu investigation, noting she began specializing over the years in studying invasive species. She mentions she’s held a longtime passion for reptiles, dating back to her fascination for snakes—catching them in coffee cans–while growing up in Ohio. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Miller later shares that she currently  keeps snakes at her home: It was an aside, really, while commenting on people who’ve obtained–often through the exotic pet trade–a young Burmese Python or Tegu, and decided their companion had become too big or too aggressive or too scary to continue living with, releasing them into the wild, commonly in or around the Everglades. This group largely constitutes folk who entered the realm of reptile ownership largely unencumbered by significant information or preparation. They’re caught off-guard by the challenges their pets start to present, and then they dump them—adding to the population of invasive species—whereas hobby-herpetologists like Miller, are fully knowledgeable about their reptilian charges, remaining unfazed by the animals growing larger or more hostile. Miller further traces the story of the Tegu status as an invasive species in south Florida, noting that efforts to contain that expanding population were initially undertaken with traditional traps. To advance beyond that limited place, she recalls, her team began pursuing aa collaboration with Wild Vision Systems, a company that specializes in creating AI-powered smart traps for invasive species. After some trial-and-error refinements, the trap at the center of the current UF project for which Miller serves as lead investigator works this way: details and images of the distinctive-looking Argentine Black and White Tegu are fed into the AI technology that’s paired with the trap (it loosely resembles the device used to capture feral cats)…it recognizes when a Tegu is inside—and clamps shut! The trap sends a message, along with a picture to Miller’s group, indicating an animal has been caught, and showing whether it’s the intended tegu or another critter, which can be released remotely. Miller brings the conversation to a close addressing the virtues and long-term implications of this smart trap. (https://www.wildvision.ai/, https://crocdoc.ifas.ufl.edu/projects/Argentineblackandwhitetegus/) (Photo credits: University of Florida IFAS, Wild Vision Systems)   ALSO: I spoke with Marion Gwizdala, CEO of Advocates for Service Animal Partners Inc. (ASAP). Gwizdala explained that Tampa-based ASAP is a national nonprofit dedicated to securing, protecting, and advancing the rights and responsibilities of service animal handlers and the businesses they patronizeTampa-based. Gwizdala outlines the new resources for businesses—table tents and other materials—ASAP was rolling out on its website (https://serviceanimals.info/) that very day, tied to September being Service Dog Awareness Month. He mentions other ways ASAP can help disabled individuals and businesses sort out their respective rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act, including its Hotline: 855-ASAP211. COMEDY CORNER: Greer Barnes’ “We Gotta Save The Bees” (https://www.instagram.com/greerbarnes)  MUSIC: Rebekah Pulley’s “Talking Animals Theme” NAME THAT ANIMAL TUNE: We didn’t play “Name That Animal Tune” today. AUDIO ARCHIVE:  

Please Note: Owing to a major accident that closed down Highway 60—a central route I take in commuting to WMNF each Wednesday—I was unable to make it to the radio station to broadcast ‘Talking Animals,” having to deliver an improvised version of this show from my car, with enormous (& much-appreciated!) production assistance from Jessica Greene. That’s why today’s program is missing certain elements, and otherwise sounds a bit rough around the edges. Patrick Hardy–the founder of Bee Platoon, described as the first all-volunteer disaster response team that assists beekeepers, first responders, and the public when dealing with honeybee swarms, evacuating or sheltering bees, and more—recounts how he first became intrigued by disaster response and, even then, had ideas for improving the discipline. In elaborating, Hardy recalls that he worked as a first responder—EMT—while in college, where he majored in political science, observing that many poli sci majors seemed to harbor ambitions to shift the landscape in a given field. As Hardy did with disaster response, as well as having a preternatural talent for it, alongside the gumption to, for instance, write a letter to the governor of Louisiana, after watching the reaction to Hurricane Katrina, offering to come assist the state formulate its disaster response planning. (The governor’s office responded, and Hardy went to work there for a time.) Because of this kind of potent aspiration, and what appear to be catholic interests that have propelled him into an array of fields, he began making himself available to consult when certain areas experienced bee swarms (that’s when a hive splits or relocates, he explains), leading him to—once again—conclude there’s a better way for the honeybee/beekeeping realm to operate. So, he enrolled in the U.C. Davis-based California Master Beekeeper Program (CAMPB), and for his capstone project, Hardy designed—you guessed it—a honeybee disaster response team, the Bee Platoon, what’s thought to be the first, and maybe only, such response team. This was also partly the outgrowth of discovering that scientific literature about bees was woefully outdated, with the most recent paper Hardy could find on bee evacuations published in 1991. Of course, he then set out to mitigate that scenario, saying he expects to publish his paper on relocating bees early next year. Hardy offers perspectives on disaster response strategies across a range of industries, including outdoor hospitality, which involves campgrounds and RV parks—and the importance of multiple forms of warning notifications. Responding to my inquiry, he peels off briefly to address the horrific flooding in Central Texas earlier this summer—noting the deep value of having responders “pre-deploy,” whenever possible, in various settings.  (https://www.beeplatoon.com/, https://disasterpatrick.com/) ALSO: I spoke with Alicia Duval, president of Dachshund Adoption Rescue & Education—or DARE—who initially outlines some key details about that organization. But mainly, on this day, she was speaking in her capacity as the chief organizer of Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day, an event slated  to take place on Aug. 28, in Clearwater. Duval recounts how the passing of her longtime canine companion, Forrest Gump, was devastating, a deeply painful loss, exacerbated by non-animal lovers who made assorted comments of the “get over it—it was just a dog” variety. So, teaming with The New Barker editor Anna Cooke, Duval created the multifaceted Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day, highlighted by a performance by Nashville singer-songwriter Brittany Moore, whose poignant song about losing a dog, “Give A Girl,” profoundly touched Duval. As Duval explains, the Moore concert constituted just one of many of the free event’s elements aiming to offer comfort for those grieving the loss of a pet. (https://thenewbarker.com/home.html, [...]

Joshua Zeman–award-winning filmmaker whose new documentary, “Checkpoint Zoo,” arrives in timely fashion, providing a distinctive window into the Russian-Ukraine war, chronicling efforts to care for, then evacuate, some 5000 animals at a Ukrainian zoo called Feldman Ecopark, while bombing was underway—recounts the path from his previous doc, “The Loneliest Whale” to his new film. Zeman observes that one through line of his work is exploring “the mysteries of animals,” and quickly assents when I suggest he’d been interested in making a war film, but was unsure what form that should take. Then he spotted the front-page New York Times story about Chichi. Chichi is a  chimpanzee in Ukraine who busted out of the Kharkiv Zoo for a few hours before a zookeeper persuaded Chichi to return to the zoo–aboard the zookeeper’s bicycle. Reading The Times account, Zeman recalls, he was struck by how much Chichi’s on-the-lam antics delighted everyone who witnessed them—no small feat in a war-torn country—while the article noted the chimp and other animals had been evacuated months earlier from Feldman Ecopark…and, crucially, the piece also mentioned multiple videos of Chichi eluding capture, that they “were shared widely on social media.’” So, these elements in Ukraine coalesced in a way that not only gave Zeman his sought-after war film, but served as a catalyst for rapidly launching what would become “Checkpoint Zoo”: In our “Talking Animals” conversation, he describes cold-calling Feldman Ecopark, requesting—and receiving—a treasure trove of video clips featuring the zoo’s animals in various scenarios, many at a TikTok-friendly 30-second length. He says he ended up acquiring some 3000 clips. He outlines the unusual challenges of sifting through and assembling an enormous number of pieces into what would become “a Joshua Zeman Film.” Zeman also addresses how the spirited squad of volunteers—that help feed and care for the Feldman Ecopark animals, later assist in evacuating them—form a pivotal facet of the film. Toward the end of our conversation, Zeman weighs in on how working on  “Checkpoint Zoo” affected his thinking about war, and his thinking about zoos and other settings where animals are held in captivity. “Checkpoint Zoo” is now playing in select theaters; information on those theaters and more: https://checkpointzoo.com/              Photo of Zeman: Jennifer Manville Other photos: Nesterov, Hume I paid tribute to Rob Lorei, WMNF’s co-founder and the station’s longtime News & Public Affairs Director, who passed away on Aug. 17–and put “Talking Animals” on the WMNF broadcast schedule for the first time, starting in 2005. ALSO: I spoke with Adam Sugalski, a veteran animal activist who leads the efforts of Bear Defenders, a coalition dedicated to ending bear hunting across the United States–their singular focus in recent months was opposing the bear hunt that the FWC voted to approve last Wednesday, Aug. 13, in a meeting in Havana, Florida. Sugalski was at that meeting, so he briefly described the scene there, noting the dark cloud hanging above the session, and puzzling pre-meeting circumstance of some FWC Commissioners being curiously MIA (on vacation, attending a wedding, etc.). That sense of foreboding continued, as the Commissioners on hand voted unanimously in favor of proceeding with a regulated bear hunt, beginning with a 23-day hunting season in December—willfully ignoring, Sugalski and I observe, the will of nearly 80 percent of Floridians, who’d expressed opposition to the hunt. We also discuss next steps for those unwilling to accept that outcome, and the importance of exhausted, disappointed activists practicing self-care. (https://www.beardefenders.org/) COMEDY CORNER: Jeremy Hotz’s  “Bronx Zoo” (DS edit) (https://jeremyhotz.com/) MUSIC: Rebekah Pulley’s “Talking Animals Theme,” instrumentals NAME THAT ANIMAL [...]

Elaine West–the founder of Rooterville Animal Sanctuary, a refuge housing rescued farm animals she launched in Melrose, Florida, more than two decades ago—explains the origin of her lifelong love of pigs. West pinpoints a particular pig that a local Humane Society was about to send home with “adopters” she felt certain were planning to eat the animal, so she intervened and rescued the pig…a pivotal episode that effectively spawned Rooterville. She recalls the early years of Rooterville, facing relentless challenges, traveling a tricky learning curve on how to run a sanctuary and how to care for assorted farm animals—many of whom had experienced neglect or abuse. In response to my specific inquiry, she addresses the extent to which she looks at her work at Rooterville as a calling, West allows that it is a calling—but, perhaps viewed through the lens of decades of experience—wishes that it weren’t a calling. More than once during our conversation, she acknowledged with a sigh of resignation that she’s older, and disabled, and figured she’d be retired by now. On a related note, she mentions she no longer takes in rescued pigs or other animals when approached to do so, after many years of saying “yes” to nearly all such entreaties. She concurs when I observe that her work guiding Rooterville feels like it’s propelled by a sort of spirituality. West recounts the unpleasant chapter of Rooterville history, in which she decided to relocate after a foundation–whose funding had helped sustain the organization since 2011—ended the support of Rooterville, and other sanctuaries, in 2021. This necessarily led to a fairly singular development amongst animal sanctuaries: reinvention. West describes the measures she implemented, some of which involved embracing agritourism (for example, you can stay at Rooterville in a covered wagon or the farmhouse, pitch a tent and camp there, or park your RV on site. Heck, you can even hold your wedding at Rooterville! West says only one couple has gotten married there so far, but hopes others will follow suit. She adds that she shifted gears in this direction—including making part of Rooterville available to rent for parties or other events, and daily enterprises, like cow cuddling–aiming to revise the sanctuary’s fundraising model, recognizing that merely relying on donations is no longer viable. West also points out that visitors to Rooterville are afforded more freedom than those visiting other sanctuaries, where the tour is often regimented in terms of where and when the sightseers may travel. That flexibility is mirrored by most of the animals, regardless of breed,  having the freedom to roam amongst each other and interact.  (https://www.rooterville.org/)   ALSO: I spoke with Emily Kapes, chief curator at the James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art, the Saint Petersburg repository of various types of art, often including fauna-oriented work. Kapes briefly described the James Museum, but was chiefly there to discuss “Rare Air: Endangered Birds, Bats, Butterflies & Bees,” a current exhibition on view at the James through Sept. 14. She describes “Rare Air”: detailed illustrations of endangered North American species who fly, noting the intricate drawings of artist Sarah Kaizar—this is a solo exhibition by Kaizar—and the show’s underlying message to protect these at-risk species against further harm, so we don’t lose them altogether. She also underscores the rarity of art pieces depicting bats! (https://thejamesmuseum.org/special-exhibitions/) COMEDY CORNER: Kevin Nealon’s “Cows on the Roof” (https://kevinnealon.com/) MUSIC: Rebekah Pulley’s “Talking Animals Theme,” instrumentals NAME THAT ANIMAL TUNE: Rolling Stones’ “Monkey Man” AUDIO ARCHIVE: Listen Online Now: https://talkinganimals.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/TAAug13Final.mp3 | Open Player in New Window

As we’ve done 13 times prior—spanning more than four years now!-–today’s program involved setting aside the usual “Talking Animals” format in order to present the show-length feature, “Ask The Trainer.”  In each session of ATT, listeners are invited to call or email (or text) questions about their dogs or cats. The Trainer these listeners have an opportunity to consult is Glen Hatchell, the now-retired Behavior and Enrichment Manager at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, and a veteran, accomplished dog trainer and behaviorist. He is also a former WMNF programmer, and occasionally guest hosts “Talking Animals.” In today’s edition, before taking the first listener question, Glen started to speak about the virtue, in some cases, of going back to basics when addressing behavioral issues in dogs.  He had nary a moment to elaborate—because the first listener call came very early in the show, and a steady stream of calls (and emails) followed…starting with Sara (from Bradenton), inquiring about her dog Cowboy—born and raised in a tough, abusive hoarding situation—now, having lived with Sara’s family for a year and a half, is very skittish around other dogs…Sheryl (from St. Pete), asking about Jed—her red coonhound/pit bull mix, weighing about 75 pounds—and his practice of jumping on people, “humping” them, and nipping at their clothes…Others included a rare international inquiry, from Karen in Toronto, seeking guidance regarding her seven-year-old Golden Retriever, Jake, and his anxiety in the car—a condition that’s worsened over the past year, as illustrated by Karen’s anecdote about a recent drive from Toronto to Montreal…We offer Ask The Trainer every two to three months, and you’re welcome to submit a question ahead of the next show via this website. COMEDY CORNER: There was no Comedy Corner today. MUSIC: Rebekah Pulley’s “Talking Animals Theme,” instrumentals NAME THAT ANIMAL TUNE:  We didn’t play “Name That Animal Tune” today. AUDIO ARCHIVE: Listen Online Now: https://talkinganimals.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/TAAug6Final.mp3 | Open Player in New Window

Dr. Eleanor Spicer Rice–an entomologist by training, and author whose books have tackled topics ranging from spiders to microbes—responds to my observation that her new set of books, “The Deadliest Series,” appears to represent a redoubling of her commitment to writing for young readers. It felt worth exploring, in part because Spicer Rice holds a PhD, is an accomplished science writer, and has written a number of books geared for adult audiences—her first appearance on this show, in 2017, was discussing her just-published four guides on ants…for adult readers. This leads us to a conversational detour, addressing the extent to which being the mother of two young boys plays a role here, and she allows that, indeed, the boys’ interests (and concerns) drive much of what she writes. And like many authors toiling in the YA realm, Spicer Rice says she hopes her work will inspire youngsters who tend to be non-readers to flip their status, adding that one of her sons is a reader, and the other, not so much. Spicer Rice recounts how the opportunity to write “The Deadliest Series” came her way, pitching the idea for one book, parenthetically proposing other titles that could round out a potential series. Once she received the greenlight for the series—“The Deadliest Snake… Spider….Big Cat… Insect…Sea Creature… Flower”—she proceeded with the proverbial deep dive into research, poring over 50-150 peer-reviewed studies in preparation for each book. That’s part of the work ethic that involved Spicer Rice putting in 14-hour days, she explains, elaborating on details of the process, including where artist Max Temescu—whose extraordinary, vibrant illustrations give the books visual pizzazz—entered the picture (so to speak). Given all the time, energy, and work she invests in these projects, I ask what she’s seeking to achieve—what does success look like?“More kids wanting to go outside,” articulating that her ongoing objective is to have her young readers (and older readers, too) share her profound sense of wonder and enthusiasm for the great outdoors, and all the wondrous creatures who live there.     ALSO: I spoke with Anita Camacho, President and Founder of the Tampa Bay Butterfly Foundation, who initially described the Foundation’s history and mission. She countered my suggestion that butterflies are under-appreciated, saying people often take a dim view of them in their caterpillar stage, because they munch on—and damage—plants. Camacho goes on to note the misunderstanding this reflects of how pollinators function, the dark detriment of pesticides, and so on—explaining that the number of moth species (150,000) dwarfs that of butterfly species (17,5000). She outlines what is expected to be offered at the event slated for Saturday July 26, including access to insects and reptiles housed on-site, the use of a blacklight to attract moths, and a presentation, “Gardening For Moths,” taking place at the Bug Zoo, Nature Center and Butterfly Garden, 4113 Henderson Blvd., Tampa, FL, 33629. (https://butterflytampa.com/, https://www.facebook.com/ButterflyTampa, https://www.instagram.com/tampabaybutterflyfoundation/) COMEDY CORNER: Joe Zimmerman’s “Pet Snakes, Part 2” (DS edit) (https://www.zimmermancomedy.com/) MUSIC: Rebekah Pulley’s “Talking Animals Theme,” instrumentals NAME THAT ANIMAL TUNE: We didn’t play “Name That Animal Tune” today. AUDIO ARCHIVE: Listen Online Now: https://talkinganimals.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/TAJuly23Final.mp3 | Open Player in New Window

Marsha Panuce—founder of Donte’s Den, a distinctive sanctuary in multiple ways, including that it extends across 50 acres (in Myakka City, FL), and primarily houses dogs—recalls growing up loving dogs, including pilgrimages with her Dad every Father’s Day to the local shelter, to adopt a dog. This passion for pooches traversed her formative years and her professional life, including a career as a concert pianist and a stint in the fashion biz, which involved living in Italy. Panuce remembers that even at points where it was impractical to live with a dog—like her Italian residency—she made sojourns to the local shelter for her canine fix. But all those shelter visits over all those years was equipping Panuce with knowledge and insights (criteria, really) for what traits she would like her facility to have, and not have, once she opened her own sanctuary—a dream she says she began nurturing as far back as college. Opened in 2014, Donte’s Den reflects Panuce’s long-marinating vision, unique in a myriad of ways—starting with that sprawling parcel of land. 50 acres! Primarily to house dogs! By comparison, for instance, Big Cat Rescue—home to numerous tigers, lions, and other sizable felines—was, I believe, not all that much bigger, at 67 acres. We discuss other distinctive traits that Panuce incorporated into the operation of Donte’s Den range from no leashes and no kennels (rather, they reside in large, air-conditioned so-called “dens”), to a fully-equipped vet hospital, along with a bone-shaped hydrotherapy pool. No less unusual is when she explains that Donte’s Den eschews volunteers, relying instead on a dozen full-time paid staff members to look after the animals, and everything else, around the clock. She describes some of the dogs residing at Donte’s Den, as well as the sanctuary’s overarching ethos: “Dogs need to be respected.” We conclude the conversation noting The Dog Bar St. Pete is opening a new location in Sarasota, and Donte’s Den has been selected the fundraising recipient of the Dog Bar’s Grand Opening on Saturday, July 19. (https://www.dontesden.org/, https://www.facebook.com/DontesDenFoundation/, https://www.instagram.com/dontes_den1/)   ALSO: I spoke with Myriam Parham, the co-founder and president of Florida Voices For Animals (FVA). She first provides a brief overview of FVA’s mission and some central elements and campaigns of that mission. Among other components of the organization’s agenda, FVA produces the annual Tampa Bay Veg Fest, the highly-regarded, multifaceted day-long event, about which she recalled the first year (2010), and the impetus for creating the festival. Parham also recalled the deeply unfortunate scenario impelling the FVA to cancel the 2024 Veg Fest, owing to the destruction and numerous other problems brought by the devastating hurricanes. But she joined me on today’s show chiefly to deliver the exciting news that Tampa Bay Veg Fest is returning! Specifically, for Save The Date purposes: Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, 11am-5pm, at Perry Harvey Sr. Park, 1000 E Harrison St, Tampa, FL 33602. While there’s much work to do and arrangements to be made, Parham says the forthcoming Veg Fest will feature the components fest-goers have come to expect and enjoy, including food vendors, speakers (she says two of the speakers slated for the cancelled Fest, Tim Kaufman and Dr. Crystal Heath, will speak at this forthcoming fest), cooking demos, live music, kids fun zone, and more. (https://www.tampabayvegfest.com/, https://www.floridavoicesforanimals.org/)  COMEDY CORNER: Zoltan Kaszas’ “Cats Pt. 1” (DS edit) (https://www.zoltancomedy.com/) MUSIC: Rebekah Pulley’s “Talking Animals Theme,” instrumentals NAME THAT ANIMAL TUNE: We didn’t play “Name That Animal Tune” today. AUDIO ARCHIVE:            

Nicci Wright–co-founder and co-chairperson of the African Pangolin Working Group (APWG), dedicated to the protection and the conservation of the pangolin, the world’s most trafficked animal—recalls her first encounter with a pangolin more than two decades ago. Echoing a response commonly experienced after individuals are introduced to these striking-looking animals, Wright felt compelled to help them. Indeed, as Wright recounted her history, citing others like her who care deeply about pangolins, toiling on their behalf–but back then, mostly doing so independently–the narrative dovetailed with the birth of the APWG: A spur-of-the-moment conversation with Ray Jansen, an academic holding a PhD in zoology—and another person toiling rather independently on pangolins’ behalf—spawned the idea of those individuals, and others, joining forces, and thereby spawning the creation of APWG. Members’ shared objectives would involve a dedication for understanding and protecting pangolins in Africa. Wright indulges my request to present a brief tutorial—Pangolins 101, of sorts—laying out an array of remedial information, morsels aimed at the constituency of folks new, or relatively new, to the pangolin world. We discuss a similar effort, this one cinematic: “Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey,” a Netflix documentary released earlier this year, directed by Pippa Ehrlich (co-director of the 2020 doc, “My Octopus Teacher”), chronicling the story of APWG Ambassador, Gareth Thomas, who rescues, rehabilitates, and releases a trafficked baby pangolin. That’s Kulu. As the film unspools, a few experts–including Nicci Wright and Ray Jansen–weigh in on the pangolins’ plight and the challenges faced in rehabilitating rescued pangolins to the degree they can be liberated back into the wild. Having been part of the filmmaking, Wright provides an assessment of “Kulu’s Journey”–as both participant and expert viewer—including the kind of impact it had on APWG and the work it does. We touch on a handful of other topics, yet don’t get to all the ones I’d hoped to discuss. For example, the Pangolarium, a cutting-edge pangolin veterinary treatment, care and rehabilitation facility for Temminick’s pangolin, the most widespread of the four African pangolin species (there are four Asian species) and the type on which APWG focuses its efforts. Unveiled earlier this year, the Pangolarium is nestled in South Africa’s Lapalala Wilderness Reserve. Her final comment, in this interview, expresses bright optimism about what the future holds for the pangolin. (https://africanpangolin.org/, https://www.netflix.com/title/81708252) [photos: Gareth Thomas, Simon Needham, APWG] ALSO: I spoke with George L. Heinrich, a field biologist and environmental educator specializing in Florida reptiles, who was slated to deliver a presentation entitled “Why Snakes Are Cool,” on Saturday, July 12, at Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center in Tarpon Springs. Heinrich first briefly addressed the various professional hats he wears, including giving lectures, running summer camps, conducting research, and leading the Florida Turtle Conservation Trust, as Executive Director. Heinrich offers a sneak preview of his presentation, outlining the case he would be making for why, indeed, snakes are cool. He also explains that this serpet-minded presentation would conclude with an opportunity for attendees to see and handle snakes. Admission to “Why Snakes Are Cool,” which starts at 10:30am, is free. (https://www.brookercreekpreserve.org/, https://www.heinrichecologicalservices.com/) COMEDY CORNER: Max Rosenblum’s “Dog People” (https://maxrosenblum.com/) MUSIC: Rebekah Pulley’s “Talking Animals Theme,” instrumentals NAME THAT ANIMAL TUNE: Echo & The Bunnymen’s “Crocodiles” AUDIO ARCHIVE: Listen Online Now: https://talkinganimals.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/TAJuly9Final.mp3 | Open Player in New Window

Adam Sugalski–who leads the efforts of Bear Defenders, a coalition dedicated to ending bear hunting across the United States; their singular focus currently is opposing the bear hunt that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has proposed for 2025—recalls how information imparted in high school prompted some unexpected contemplation, and a life change, presaging a passion for advocacy. This triggers an anecdote about Sugalski’s experiences some 20 years ago, participating in—then later, leading—protests of the Ringling Bros. circus. Which, in turn, triggered a memory of a panel discussion I’d convened on “Talking Animals” in early 2017, after Feld Entertainment announced it was shutting down the circus—Sugalski, a member of that panel, laughed at the recollection that the Feld panelist, the VP of Corporate Communications, wouldn’t let him get a word in edgewise. But we had gathered for this interview to discuss the proposed bear hunt, so after noting that there had been multiple interviews (and one song) on “Talking Animal” addressing the hunt—and that Sugalski has commented about the topic in numerous forums—we nonetheless agree it’s unwise to assume all listeners are familiar with the details, so we should start out on a remedial level: Why, I ask Sugalski, is there a proposed bear hunt? As one measure of the absurd absence of justification for this pending action, Sugalski didn’t feel there was a good answer to this question, even while attempting to contort himself into the shoes of FWC Commissioners to reply. We touch on how disquieting this lack of rationale or explanation feels, especially when the outcome is on the immediate horizon: the FWC is slated to meet Aug. 13-14 in Havana, FL for a final vote on the hunt. Acknowledging the recent fatal black bear attack in Collier County—an 89-year-old man and his dog were killed–naturally, I ask Sugalski to consider how this horrific incident has altered the bear hunt conversation. He observes that some members of the pro-hunt faction point to the attack as validation for proceeding with the hunt, while himself repudiating that perspective because this fatal bear attack stands as the only one in Florida’s recorded history. We cover how—despite several indications of widespread public opposition, including a commissioned survey showing more than 70% of respondents giving the hunt a thumbs-down—it feels like a foregone conclusion the FWC will approve the hunt in those August meetings. And with fewer safeguards, plus provisions more onerous than what characterized the bear hunt of a decade ago, including the “Honor System” for hunters to self-report their kills, allowing hounding (using packs of dogs to chase bears through the woods), Bows Over Bait (Bears are lured into kill zones with piles of sweets and then ambushed at close range).  Among other topics, we pinpointed measures can people take to speak out against the hunt: Attend the FWC Commission meeting: Date: August 13–14, 2025 Time: Arrive by 7:30 AM to sign up to speak Location: Florida Highway Patrol Training Academy 75 College Ave, Havana, FL 32333 Call and Email Governor DeSantis Tell him you oppose the hunt and support protecting black bears. Phone Number: (850) 717-9337 Email: GovernorRon.Desantis@eog.myflorida.com Email the FWC Subject: I Oppose the Florida Black Bear Hunt Send to: BearComments@MyFWC.com You can simply write: “I oppose the Florida black bear hunt.” For more info, to sign a petition, to access flyers, and more–all tied to the bear hunt–please visit: https://www.beardefenders.org/ (Photos by Bill Lea, Adam Sugalski, Bear Defenders, et al.)   ALSO: I spoke with Jennifer Higgins, owner of The Spice & Tea Exchange of Dunedin about “Dog Days of Summer,” a multi-day event she created with the specific aim of raising funds for the Humane Society of Pinellas County. Higgins first provides a nickel tour [...]

C. Annie Peters, president and CEO of Pet Partners—a Bellevue, Wash.-based national therapy animal organization focusing on improving human health and well-being through the human-animal bond—traces her path from once-aspiring engineer (who realized she didn’t really like engineering), venturing into an extended stint in the non-profit world, working at Special Olympics International before landing at the helm of Pet Partners 11 years ago. But Peters notes that one thruline across this narrative is her love of animals. So when I observe that someone might not see a connection between the work of Special Olympics International and one focused on various aspects of therapy animals, she explains in this Pet Partners employment opportunity, she identified three components that spoke to her in a meaningful way. It concentrated on (1) health; (2) volunteers; (3) pets. Peters responds to my query, wondering how she would describe Pet Partners in significant ways—both pluses and minuses—when she arrived there a decade-plus ago, relative to how she would characterize the organization now, very much including the changes and improvements she’s introduced. We broach the important distinction between therapy dogs and service dogs—a confusing difference for many. And I mention that some folks cultivate that confusion by buying a phony therapy-dog vest and putting it on their non-therapy dog—and BOOM!, instant access on airplanes, restaurants, and elsewhere. She says there’s nothing much Pet Partners can do to mitigate that deception, but if the organization learns a Pet Partners team has engaged in any such fraudulent behavior, they’re dismissed. For Peters’ part, she emphasizes the Pet Partners’ distinction between therapy dogs and service dogs comes down to this: service dogs involve a one-to-one relationship with humans, while therapy dogs’ relationship involves one to many.  Pet Partners deals strictly in the realm of therapy animals, and among the resources they offer is evaluating potential teams. It’s not uncommon for people to think their warm, gregarious dog could possibly have the makings of a therapy dog who could be helpful by visiting a nearby school or hospital. Peters explained they have evaluators spread across the country who can make that very assessment. Likewise, Pet Projects is equipped to provide training to aspiring therapy animals team, and once that training is successfully completed, that team is insured by Pet Projects, and reflects a top-tier credibility to institutions considering taking on a new team. We touched on a number of other topics, from the sister organization Peters helped create a little over two years ago, the Association of Animal Assisted Intervention Professionals (AAAIP)—geared for an array of individuals (physical therapists, social workers, animal trainers, et al) interested in incorporating therapy animals into their professional work—to the range of animals Pet Projects recognizes as therapy animals, beyond dogs, including cats, horses, rabbits, and llamas. (https://petpartners.org/, https://www.aaaiponline.org/) ALSO: I spoke with Devon Francke, Education Program Coordinator at Keep Pinellas Beautiful, who was slated to deliver a talk entitled “Sea Turtle Nesting, Conservation, and You!,” on June 26th at Moccasin Lake Park in Clearwater. Francke first provided a brief overview of Keep Pinellas Beautiful, and what his responsibilities—as one of the organization’s two Education Program Coordinators—typically entail. A then-looming example was the lecture about sea turtles Francke would be presenting the next day. He was kind enough to share a sneak preview of that lecture, including noting an important motto for protecting nesting sea turtles and their babies is “Clean, Dark, Flat”—meaning leave the beach free of trash and other debris…avoid using flashlights or other sources of light at night that could confuse the turtles’ [...]

Dr. Holly Dutton, Medical Director at the Tampa and Clearwater locations of VEG ER for Pets–a national enterprise that specializes in providing around-the-clock emergency and critical care services for pets—flips the script on my mention of the countless guests who work with animals in some capacity, grew up wanting to be a veterinarian, but for one reason or another, their plans changed. Dutton–clearly not only a veterinarian, but overseeing two emergency vet hospitals–explains that she did not grow up with those aspirations, only becoming interested in traveling the veterinary path as an undergrad pursuing human medicine, particularly research projects involving animals. Now, Dutton says she has been practicing for 11 years, absolutely loves the work of being an emergency vet, and perhaps not coincidentally, feels “it’s a calling.” She outlines some of what she loves most about her day-to-day VEG ER life…and what she doesn’t love so much. We discuss some of the traits that help distinguish VEG ER as emergency vet hospitals go; some are structural—like the open floor plan, providing the animals and humans an unobstructed view across all sections of the hospital—and some are philosophical. For example, when you first call a VEG ER location, you can immediately speak with a veterinarian—any time of day or night…When you bring your animal in, you can opt to stay with that pet every step of the way …you can hold your pet during treatment (Dutton said they’ll even teach an owner how to do a blood draw on their pet, if interested)…These and other measures—like sometimes sitting on the floor in the hospital, and inviting the pet and owner to do so, too—are designed to reduce the stress of the ER experience, for animal and human alike. Noting the blazing temperatures outside, and that Summer reportedly yields an increase in pet ER visits, I ask Dutton about the most common afflictions associated with Summer, after she establishes the fundamental causal factors are the season’s elevated heat and humidity. She offers some precautions pet parents can take to reduce the prospects of such Summer setbacks. While fielding a large handful of listener calls and emails, we touched on various other topics, from the number of VEG ER locations nationwide (100+), to the firm’s blood bank, to the wide array of animals VEG ER is prepared to treat, including sugar gliders, iguanas, and, yes, hedgehogs. (https://www.veterinaryemergencygroup.com/locations/florida/tampa, https://www.veterinaryemergencygroup.com/locations/florida/clearwater) ALSO: I presented the broadcast premiere of “Don’t Kill Those Bears,” a new song—a catchy op-ed, you might say—written and recorded by singer-songwriter Marty Fouts, offering his clear opposition to the bear hunt proposed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). We’ve discussed the bear hunt multiple times on the show, viewing Fouts’ song as another opportunity to call attention to the issue, including noting the FWC meets for a final vote in meetings August 13-14 (Visit MyFWC.com/About/Commission/Commission Meetings for agendas and details) and if approved, the bear hunt would take place in December. So, it’s imperative that animal lovers voice their opposition as soon as possible: You can email your comments directly to the FWC at BearComments@MyFWC.com     COMEDY CORNER: Brian Regan’s “Doctors & Veterinarians” (https://brianregan.com/) MUSIC: Rebekah Pulley’s “Talking Animals Theme,” Marty Fouts’ “Don’t Kill Those Bears,” instrumentals NAME THAT ANIMAL TUNE: Little Feat’s “Dixie Chicken” AUDIO ARCHIVE: Listen Online Now: https://talkinganimals.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/TAJune18Final.mp3 | Open Player in New Window

Tanya Smith–Founder and President of Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, a 459-acre sanctuary in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, chiefly housing abused, abandoned, and neglected big cats—recalls a precocious first foray into big cat rescue…at age 11. She explains that this was the outgrowth of her parents—inveterate animal lovers—intervening in an odd, colorful situation where a lion cub was provided as a form of payment on a debt to a friend of theirs. In the ensuing years, another lion ended up in the family’s back yard. And then, Smith remembers, they were thrust into action when Catherine Twiss—a notorious, nefarious breeder and dealer—rolled into the nearby area with 42 big cats stuffed into three cattle cars. The family had for years been eying the sprawling parcel of land that became Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, and the arrival of the Twiss animals served as a catalyst (sorry!) for them to buy the land and build the sanctuary. From those beginnings, and spanning multiple decades, Smith truly reflects a lifelong commitment when it comes to caring for big cats and other animals. I was curious: it’s one thing to follow the lead of your folks when you’re a young kid, but she had plenty of opportunities over the years to peel off and pursue a different profession—but didn’t. Why? By way of response, she describes the rewards of providing a safe, happy life to animals who’ve often previously lived in horrific conditions, and witnessing their transformation as they settle in at the sanctuary. More tellingly, perhaps, she says doing this kind of work “is in my blood.”  At this point, the animal population at Turpentine Creek stands at upwards of 125, predominantly tigers, but also including lions, cougars, bobcats, hybrids (ligers, etc.), and leopards, among other cats—and several bears! This fauna citizenry increased significantly in 2023, when in an arrangement struck with Howard and Carole Baskin, some 30 Big Cat Rescue cats relocated to Turpentine Creek. This was a pivotal part of the Baskins’ plan to effectively put themselves “out of business,” finding an excellent new home for the animals, shutting down the Tampa facility, and selling the property. Howard Baskin discussed portions of this plan, including some facets of the BCR animals moving to Turpentine Creek, on the Feb. 12 edition of this show. I was interested in hearing her perspective on what clearly was a monumental undertaking that bolstered one longstanding animal sanctuary, while helping another achieve its objective of closing down. The Baskins and the Smiths–Tanya’s husband is Scott–knew each other, not only from being in the same rarefied line of work, but also collaborating—along with many others—for years on trying to help pass a formidable piece of legislation in their realm, The Big Cat Public Safety Act (which did pass, and was signed into law, in 2022). But in recounting the conversation, Smith made it clear the request to take the BCR cats was unexpected. It’s not exactly a spoiler to indicate the Smiths ultimately said “Yes.” We touched on a number of other topics, including a description of tours that Turpentine Creek offers, lodging options (Smith noted that just one virtue of staying overnight is the early-morning roars of the lions—called “caroling”), hybrid big cats, what the future holds at the sanctuary, and more. (https://www.turpentinecreek.org/, https://www.facebook.com/TurpentineCreekWildlifeRefuge, https://www.instagram.com/turpentinecreek/, https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCscyqhelSt4npmCr8neSwoQ) ALSO: I spoke with Breck Pribyl, founder of Acutienamedstewieinc.nonprofit, a St. Petersburg-based nonprofit that helps dog rescues, by organizing or promoting assorted events, earmarking the monies raised for one or more pre-selected rescue. The next such event was slated to be Paws For Pride: Wings of Love, on Saturday, June 14, at The Dog Bar in Saint Pete—with all proceeds [...]

As we’ve done 12 times prior—spanning just over four years now!–today’s program involved setting aside the usual “Talking Animals” format in order to present the show-length feature, “Ask The Trainer.”  In each session of ATT, listeners are invited to call or email (or text) questions about their dogs or cats, particularly . The Trainer these listeners have an opportunity to consult is Glen Hatchell, the now-retired Behavior and Enrichment Manager at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, and a veteran, accomplished dog trainer and behaviorist. He is also a former WMNF programmer, and occasionally guest hosts “Talking Animals.” In today’s edition, before taking the first listener question, Glen spoke about the scenario whereby dogs seem inconsistent about what they should be doing—that is, responding to a command or other behavioral expectation—often because they are overcome by a distraction of one kind or another (noise, weather, traffic, another dog, etc.), not unlike the way humans can be waylaid by assorted stresses. But humans can more readily articulate what’s bothering them—and what might prove calming–whereas a dog’s owner or handler has to employ different measures to discern what’s wrong, and how to help that dog reset. Glen expanded on this notion, before responding to an array of calls and emails, starting with a listener who called about their recently-adopted Belgian Malinois who had nipped a few people—not biting anyone, the caller noted, but concerning nonetheless, including her dog’s reaction to a neighboring dog on the other side of the fence. Among Glen’s recommendations was to visit the website for The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers: https://www.ccpdt.org Another caller described her 15-month-old Wolfhound who “pancakes” every time she attempts to put a leash on. Glen raised some questions, including “What’s he avoiding?,” and offered some suggestions—later supporting the idea proposed by a subsequent caller to switch to a 25- or 30-foot leash…A listener from St. Petersburg emailed about the American English coonhound/pit mix she adopted when he was a year old. In the two years since, she explains, the dog has reflected multiple behavior issue, and she’s worked with two trainer/behavior modification specialists. The dog has come a long, she wrote. but the current issue is that when someone comes to the house, the dog jumps on them from behind—or worse—if the visitor doesn’t pay attention to him…Another emailer wrote in with some inquiries: Do dogs get ADHD? Are there meds they can take for this? She went on to mention that this dog has barking fits and meltdowns that the trainers can’t figure out, adding the dog does have seizures infrequently, and is five years old. Upon hearing about the seizures, Glen said the very first step should be a consultation with a veterinarian…. COMEDY CORNER: There was no Comedy Corner today. MUSIC: Rebekah Pulley’s “Talking Animals Theme,”  instrumentals NAME THAT ANIMAL TUNE: We didn’t play “Name That Animal Tune” today. AUDIO ARCHIVE: Listen Online Now: https://talkinganimals.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/TAJune4Final.mp3 | Open Player in New Window