Shows / Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
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.
Episodes
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Out of the Cold 2026 Rescue Effort
Our annual Out of the Cold Rescue Effort is coming up in just a few short weeks where our team heads to rural North Dakota and welcomes anywhere between…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyWe’ve Got Stories! Catching Up After Out of the Heat
Whew… did you miss us? Because we missed YOU! ❤️ We’ve been a little MIA over the latter part of the summer after returning from Texas with our Out of the Heat…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyOut 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…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
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…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyThe 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…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyWhat 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…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyBully 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…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
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…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
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…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyThe 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…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyThe 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…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyRooted 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…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyAll 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…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyIt'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…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
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…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
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…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyLaughs, 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…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
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…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyA 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…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
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…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
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…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty400+ 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…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyTwelve Years of Love, Animal Rescue, and Alisha
In this episode, we're celebrating the 12 year journey of our friend and true OG of Coco's Heart Dog Rescue. She’s a volunteer, a coordinator, and a constant…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyPart 2: Celebrating the Past, Excited for the Future w/ Angel's Pet World
The fun continues in part two of our conversation with Angel’s Pet World! From the early rescue days to big community moments, Angel, Al, and Erica share all…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyThe Power of Partnership, Our Story with Angel's Pet World- Part 1
We’re thrilled to welcome one of Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue’s biggest supporters who have become family to us — Angel’s Pet World, a beloved small business in the…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Clinic Confessions, Veterinary Life in Animal Rescue
Two of our amazing veterinary team members, Shannon and Amber, join us to give you a behind-the-scenes look at the Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue Veterinary Clinic…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittySharing the Leash- Dog Foster Life with Sara & Jarred
In this episode, we welcome Sara, our adult dog Foster Coordinator and her partner and high school sweetheart, Jarred- our very first male guest too, woohoo!…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittySpecial Cases, Special Care: Amber's Impact
In this episode, we introduce you to Amber, one of our newest coordinators of the Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue team! Amber’s role is a unique hybrid—she bridges the…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
From Paws to Mini Hooves- The History of Richard's Place
This week, we’re sharing a very special chapter in our rescue’s journey. What started with saving dogs has grown into something even more unexpected…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Finding Furever, One Adoption Application at a Time
Behind every happily-ever-after adoption story is someone working tirelessly to make it happen. In this episode, we sit down with our amazing Adoption…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyKim's Story: Italian Greyhouds, Quirky Dogs, and 230+ Foster Dogs
This week at Coco's Heart Dog Rescue, we’re thrilled to welcome Kim, a foster mentor, event rockstar, super foster, and one of the most dedicated volunteers of…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
A Heavy Heart- Behavioral Euthanasia and the Journey Through Grief in Rescue
This week on our Surviving Animal Rescue podcast here at Coco's Heart Dog Rescue, we open our hearts to the heaviest of conversations... one that sits at the…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyFrom California to Wisconsin- Mary, The Coordinator Extraordinaire
We sit down with one of our rescue’s most dedicated and multi-talented volunteers and coordinators, Mary. From conducting references and background checks, to…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
The Crate Debate- All things Kennel and Crating for Your Dog!
In this episode of Surviving Animal Rescue, we’re diving into all things kennels and crates... from crate training tips to choosing the right crate for your…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Understanding Adoption Fees: The Cost of Animal Rescue
Let’s talk adoption fees! We’re pulling back the curtain on how we determine our adoption fees and why they’re a crucial part of the rescue process here at…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty GrittyHeart & Hustle: A Mother-Daughter Duo Making a Difference
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with an unstoppable mother-daughter team, Elena and Nola, whose impact ripples across generations and species alike…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Fostering 101: Getting Started with Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue
New to fostering with Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue? You’re in the right place! In this special orientation episode, we sit down for a conversational walk-through of…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Whelping 101 and the X-ray of a (maybe) 2 Headed Puppy?!
In this episode, we dive into the world of whelping in a foster-based rescue with our Whelping Coordinator, Stephanie. Where midnight chaos is guaranteed, and…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Out in the Wild- Sit Down with an OG at Coco's Heart Dog Rescue |Episode 15
In this special episode, we sit down with one of Coco’s Heart’s original fosters and foster mentors, Marissa—an “OG” who’s been part of the rescue’s journey…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
The Pandemic: How Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue Adapted During COVID | Episode 14
When the world shut down, Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue stepped up. In this episode, we take a look back at the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic and how it…
Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty1 Dog....14 Breeds. The Results are IN | Episode 13
Remington arrived to rescue needing a pediatric neck brace and a whole lot of medical attention from being shot in the neck and abused. He permanently joined…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Everybody has a Bumper, Upcoming 5k Doggie Day| Episode 12
Sit down with our 5k committee as we approach our annual and super fun 5k Doggie Day held on June 7th, 2025 along the river in Hudson, WI. We talk about all…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Black Dog Syndrome, 3-3-3 in Rescue, and Survivor Dreams | Episode 11
Meet our Behavioral Support Coordinator, Ashley L and listen in with our Foster Coordinators as we talk about Black Dog Syndrome and how black dogs are often…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Which breeds of dogs are tough to find fosters for?! | Episode 10
Sit in on one of our daily conversations between Foster Coordinators and our Daily Operations as discuss upcoming transport and intakes, numerous momma dogs…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
My Dog is Lost, HELP! Lost Dog Series Part 2
Join us for part 2 of our Lost Dog series where we sit down with our Foster Coordinators and talk about what to do when your dog goes missing, tips and tricks…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Coco's Heart Goes to Texas | Episode 8
Coco's Heart Dog Rescue travels 1,300+ miles to see firsthand what the stray population looks like in the state with the largest numbers of animals being…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Wait, what goes in the garbage?! - Vet Team Edition | Episode 7
Join us for a chit chat with some of our very own Coco's Heart Dog Rescue Veterinary Team members as we dive into the different veterinary days that are often…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Oh No! My dog is lost. What do I do?! | Episode 6
In this two episode series, we discuss all things lost dogs! Episode 1 touches on a current and personal experience of a spirited but loyal chihuahua and her…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Love is Blind, Speeding Tickets, and A Corgi In Charge | Episode 5
Join us for an hour long chit-chat with some of our Coco's Heart Dog Rescue team as we reveal a long held secret that has to do with the Netflix series, Love…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
A Day in the Life of a Foster Coordinator | Episode 4
Have you ever wondered what working at a dog rescue is like? What it's REALLY like? Learn more about being a Foster Coordinator for Coco's Heart Dog Rescue, a…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
The Language of Rescue | Episode 3
This week we dive into the ever-changing and increasingly controversial language of rescue and some of the current "no-no's" and "icks" within the rescue…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Episode 2 | Debunking Foster Myths
"I cannot foster because I will not be able to give them up!" "I cannot foster because I have children." "I cannot foster because I don't have a fenced in…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Episode 1 | The Woman Who Started It All
We kick off our first episode talking to the woman who started it all, our Director and Founder, Ashley Kurtz. Discussing things rarely mentioned before on the…
- Surviving Animal Rescue: Tails of the Nitty Gritty
Trailer | Intro to the Podcast
We are a foster based animal rescue organization out of Wisconsin. This trailer gives an insight on what to expect from episodes to come. We will welcome…