Story of My Pet: Tales of Animal Rescue, Fostering & Adoption

Julie Marty-Pearson
  • 4.8 (20)
  • PETS & ANIMALS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Are you a pet lover with a rescue story close to your heart? You’ve found your new favorite podcast. 🐾 Welcome to The Story of My Pet, where inspiring tales of animal rescue, fostering, and adoption come to life. Each episode shares powerful stories from pet parents, animal advocates, and rescue heroes who’ve opened their hearts and homes to animals in need. From street cats and shelter pups to unexpected animal companions, you'll hear heartwarming — and sometimes heartbreaking — stories that celebrate the deep bond between humans and their pets. Whether you're a rescue volunteer, foster parent, animal shelter worker, or just someone who believes every animal deserves a loving home, this podcast is for you. 🎧 You’ll learn: How people around the world rescue and foster animalsWhat it’s really like inside shelters and rescuesHow to cope with pet loss and celebrate the lives of our furry family membersSimple ways you can help animals in your community 🩷 Want to share your story? Email Julie to become a guest! Contact your host via Email- julie@thestoryofmypetpodcast.com About Your Host: Dr. Julie Marty-Pearson is a Storytelling Strategist, Podcasting Mentor, and champion for women who are ready to share their stories and be heard. She coaches purpose-driven women to grow their visibility and confidence through podcasting, guesting, and speaking. Julie hosts two podcasts: 🩷 Podcast Your Story, which focuses on how to amplify your voice and grow their business through podcasting.  🩷 The Story of My Pet, a Top 5% podcast inspiring tales of pets focused on advocating and educating for animals rescue, fostering, and adoption Julie also created and hosts two communities: 🩷 Women's Podcaster Party Networking Community, for podcasters, guests, and speakers to connect and collaborate. Come check out our Monthly Networking Events. 🩷  Podcast Your Story Community Membership. Support the Podcast by Buying Us a Treat via Buy Me a CoffeeShop our Affiliate Partners & Sponsors: 🐾 Shop our sponsor Mikko's Choice Use code 'storyofmypet' for 15% off🐾 Shop CBD for people at Nuvita  Use code 'Julie10' for 10% every time you shop! The Story of My Pet Podcast and Blog- Website - Instagram - Facebook Connect with your host, Julie Marty-Pearson – Website - YouTube - Instagram - Facebook - LinkedIn - Pinterest & Listen to Podcast Your Story - Website

  1. Navigating Life with Animals: Insights on Animal Companionship

    3D AGO

    Navigating Life with Animals: Insights on Animal Companionship

    Kristin on Animal Communication, Shelter Stress, and Seeing Animals for Who They Are Host Julie Marty Pearson welcomes Kristin Hadley to The Story of My Pet to discuss Kristin’s lifelong love of animals, beginning with her first horse Snowbird, and her path to becoming a professional animal communicator. Kristen describes telepathy as a learnable, two-way language that helps animals and people understand needs, emotions, behavior, and wellness issues, and she shares how her background in speech language pathology and a message from her horse Woody led her to teach and consult professionally. They talk about shelter and foster stress, decompression time, breed bias, projections, and the importance of neutrality, clarity, and respect for animals’ boundaries. Kristin shares a foster case where understanding a dog’s purpose transformed behavior and highlights Akron Rescue Cats and Buddy’s Second Chance Rescue, which matched her with her dog Fisher. To learn more about Kristin, visit her Website Follow on Facebook & Instagram Support the show Support the Podcast by Buying Us a Treat via Buy Me a Coffee Shop our Affiliate Partners: 🐾 Shop Mikko's Choice Use code 'storyofmypet' for 15% off🐾 Shop Superior Feline Use code “storyofmypet” for 15% off🐾 Shop Nuvita CBD for people Use code 'Julie10' for 10% offLoved this episode? Leave a review and rating here The Story of My Pet Podcast and Blog- Website - Instagram - Facebook Contact your host via Email- julie@thestoryofmypetpodcast.com Connect with your host, Dr. Julie Marty-Pearson – Website - YouTube - Instagram - Facebook - LinkedIn

    50 min
  2. Cats That Kept Him Going: How David Maeda's Cats Shaped His Story

    APR 12

    Cats That Kept Him Going: How David Maeda's Cats Shaped His Story

    Cats That Kept Him Going: How David Maeda's Cats Shaped His Story.  Your host, Julie Marty-Pearson sits down with David Maeda to trace that arc from his first cat, Mr Max, to a home shaped by bonded pairs, big personalities, and the kind of attachment that turns ordinary days into a shared routine you never want to lose. David  adopted Max in college and discovered what “cat people” mean when they talk about connection. From hilarious moments like a drooling purr to the ache of coming home after a pet dies, we stay with the full emotional range of cat ownership. David also shares how cat math happens: adopting two cats together after a loss, bringing home a three-legged rescue, and learning that even bonded cats can leave someone feeling left out. Because David’s memoir includes a chapter dedicated to his cats, the conversation goes deeper into memory, storytelling, and why writing about animals can be both healing and heartbreaking. We also talk openly about depression, anxiety, and high-stress years in public service, including his work as Minnesota’s director of elections, and how caring for cats can keep you grounded when your mind is pulling you under. Along the way, we touch on Feline Rescue in St Paul, volunteering, cat shelters overwhelmed by animals who lose their person, and why every pet guardian should have a plan for who would step in. To learn more about David, visit his Website or buy his book This is Not Who We Are Support the show Support the Podcast by Buying Us a Treat via Buy Me a Coffee Shop our Affiliate Partners: 🐾 Shop Mikko's Choice Use code 'storyofmypet' for 15% off🐾 Shop Superior Feline Use code “storyofmypet” for 15% off🐾 Shop Nuvita CBD for people Use code 'Julie10' for 10% offLoved this episode? Leave a review and rating here The Story of My Pet Podcast and Blog- Website - Instagram - Facebook Contact your host via Email- julie@thestoryofmypetpodcast.com Connect with your host, Dr. Julie Marty-Pearson – Website - YouTube - Instagram - Facebook - LinkedIn

    29 min
  3. Unleashing Stories: How Unique Dogs Inspired Children's Books with Leia Barrett

    MAR 24

    Unleashing Stories: How Unique Dogs Inspired Children's Books with Leia Barrett

    Unleashing Stories: How Unique Dogs Inspired Children's Books with Leia Barrett. Host Julie Marty Pearson welcomes children’s author and rescue advocate Leia Barrett, who shares growing up with dogs (including longtime family “unicorn” Dixie) and later adopting her own unicorn rescue, Layla. They discuss common challenges in rescue adoptions, why quick returns can traumatize animals, and the widely used “3-3-3 rule” describing dogs’ adjustment over the first three days, three weeks, and three months.  Leia explains how understanding decompression, training, redirection, and empathy can prevent rehoming and support the overpopulation crisis through better education—especially for kids. She describes her path from classical-music storybooks to founding a rescue-focused picture book series, beginning with The Odd Dog, inspired by Layla’s quirks and centered on families adapting to a pet’s needs. They highlight Kansas City’s Wayside Waifs and Leah’s book-signing fundraisers that donate to shelters and rescues. To learn more about Leia and her books, visit her Website or Follow her on Facebook and Instagram. 01:04 Growing Up With Greyhounds 01:38 Dixie the Unicorn Dog 02:33 Adopting Layla at 40 04:30 Rescue Returns and Education 05:31 Explaining the 3-3-3 Rule 08:21 Training Patience and Empathy 12:21 Why She Writes Kids Books 14:23 Creating The Odd Dog 16:21 Embracing Mutts Over Breeds 17:42 Earning Trust With Pets 19:57 Pets Get Us Moving 20:34 Outdoor Time Safely 21:14 Turning Layla Into Odd Dog 23:49 Redirecting Pet Energy 25:38 Senior Dogs Deserve Love 28:37 Spotlight on Wayside Waifs 31:07 How to Help Rescues 34:30 Book Signings Fundraiser Support the show Support the Podcast by Buying Us a Treat via Buy Me a Coffee Shop our Affiliate Partners: 🐾 Shop Mikko's Choice Use code 'storyofmypet' for 15% off🐾 Shop Superior Feline Use code “storyofmypet” for 15% off🐾 Shop Nuvita CBD for people Use code 'Julie10' for 10% offLoved this episode? Leave a review and rating here The Story of My Pet Podcast and Blog- Website - Instagram - Facebook Contact your host via Email- julie@thestoryofmypetpodcast.com Connect with your host, Dr. Julie Marty-Pearson – Website - YouTube - Instagram - Facebook - LinkedIn

    42 min
  4. Love Your Feral Feline: A Special Podcasthon Episode

    MAR 19

    Love Your Feral Feline: A Special Podcasthon Episode

    Podcasthon Special: How Love Your Feral Felines Is Saving Cats in San Diego County with Volunteer Tammy Kaehler Host Julie Marty Pearson shares a special Podcasthon episode of The Story of My Pet Podcast, part of a coordinated March 2026 global charity event, featuring an interview with Tammy Kaehler, a volunteer with Love Your Feral Felines (LYFF), an all-volunteer cat rescue serving San Diego County. Tammy расскаnts how a former feral “backyard cat” led her into cat rescue work and describes LYFF’s mission and programs, including foster and adoption efforts, a free-roaming adoption center, barn cat placements, community education, and trap-neuter-return (TNR) work. They discuss cat overpopulation, the challenges feral cats face in shelters, ways people can help beyond fostering (transport, photos, writing, grants, supplies, and social sharing), and how to support LYFF through donations, wish lists, volunteering, cuddle hours, and adopting. To learn more about Love Your Feral Feline, Visit their Website or Follow them on Facebook Instagram & Youtube Support the show Support the Podcast by Buying Us a Treat via Buy Me a Coffee Shop our Affiliate Partners: 🐾 Shop Mikko's Choice Use code 'storyofmypet' for 15% off🐾 Shop Superior Feline Use code “storyofmypet” for 15% off🐾 Shop Nuvita CBD for people Use code 'Julie10' for 10% offLoved this episode? Leave a review and rating here The Story of My Pet Podcast and Blog- Website - Instagram - Facebook Contact your host via Email- julie@thestoryofmypetpodcast.com Connect with your host, Dr. Julie Marty-Pearson – Website - YouTube - Instagram - Facebook - LinkedIn

    38 min
  5. Learning Pet Nutrition Science: How Four Cats Taught This Couple Everything About Pet Food

    11/10/2025

    Learning Pet Nutrition Science: How Four Cats Taught This Couple Everything About Pet Food

    Learning Pet Nutrition Science may be easier than you realize. In this episode, I sit down with Holly Baer from Superior Feline to explore the world of homemade pet nutrition. Holly's journey began when her own cats faced serious health challenges—kidney disease, fish allergies, and inflammatory conditions that commercial foods couldn't address. What started as a desperate search for solutions became a mission to help cat parents everywhere take control of their pets' nutrition. From Crisis to Solution Holly's husband, a microbiologist, dove deep into research when their beloved cat Coconut developed kidney disease. What they discovered changed everything about how they approached feline nutrition. But Superior Feline goes beyond just food mixes. They've developed a complete system including omega-3 oils (both fish and plant-based options), postbiotics for gut health, and liver powder toppers for picky eaters.  What you'll learn in this episode: How to transition from commercial to homemade cat food safelyThe difference between probiotics and postbiotics for feline healthSolutions for cats with allergies, kidney disease, and digestive issuesTips for dealing with picky eaters and multiple cats with different preferencesHusband and Wife team, Eric and Holly Baer, founded Superior Feline because of the positive, physical results they saw from making homemade cat food for their two cats, Coconut and Luna Belle, who had health issues. They started Superior Feline with the main goal of providing quality, science-based, affordable products that aren't built around marketing, but around the true pursuit of real results and long-term health for fur family. Follow Superior Feline on Facebook or Instagram. Support the show Support the Podcast by Buying Us a Treat via Buy Me a Coffee Shop our Affiliate Partners: 🐾 Shop Mikko's Choice Use code 'storyofmypet' for 15% off🐾 Shop Superior Feline Use code “storyofmypet” for 15% off🐾 Shop Nuvita CBD for people Use code 'Julie10' for 10% offLoved this episode? Leave a review and rating here The Story of My Pet Podcast and Blog- Website - Instagram - Facebook Contact your host via Email- julie@thestoryofmypetpodcast.com Connect with your host, Dr. Julie Marty-Pearson – Website - YouTube - Instagram - Facebook - LinkedIn

    35 min
  6. Paw Prints on Our Hearts: Navigating Pet Loss and Love with Ami King

    10/27/2025

    Paw Prints on Our Hearts: Navigating Pet Loss and Love with Ami King

    Have you ever wondered about the profound impact pets can have on our lives? In this heartwarming episode, Julie sits down with Amy King, a fellow animal lover and writer, to explore the joys and challenges of pet ownership. Amy shares her journey from childhood fish tanks to adopting rescue dogs with complex needs. We discuss the emotional rollercoaster of caring for pets with health issues and the bittersweet experience of saying goodbye to our furry companions. Key takeaways for pet parents: The importance of being observant and in tune with your pet's behaviorCoping strategies for dealing with pet loss and griefWhy it's crucial to give yourself grace during the grieving processThe value of adopting from reputable animal welfare organizationsWe also spotlight the Arizona Animal Welfare League and their fantastic work in matching pets with loving homes. Ami King is a former higher ed instructor who wanted to do something creative and turned to writing and telling stories. Ami writes historical western romance novels with a mix of mystery, intrigue, and, well, romance. There's also a funny animal or two. Ami is married with 2 college aged boys, a koi pond and her ride or die dog, Finnegan. To learn more about Ami King, check out her Website, follow her on Facebook or Instagram. Support the show Support the Podcast by Buying Us a Treat via Buy Me a Coffee Shop our Affiliate Partners: 🐾 Shop Mikko's Choice Use code 'storyofmypet' for 15% off🐾 Shop Superior Feline Use code “storyofmypet” for 15% off🐾 Shop Nuvita CBD for people Use code 'Julie10' for 10% offLoved this episode? Leave a review and rating here The Story of My Pet Podcast and Blog- Website - Instagram - Facebook Contact your host via Email- julie@thestoryofmypetpodcast.com Connect with your host, Dr. Julie Marty-Pearson – Website - YouTube - Instagram - Facebook - LinkedIn

    36 min
  7. From Rink to Rescue: How the Chicago Wolves Score Big for Rescue Dogs

    10/17/2025

    From Rink to Rescue: How the Chicago Wolves Score Big for Rescue Dogs

    Are you ready for a heartwarming tale that combines the thrill of hockey with the joy of pet adoption? In this episode, Julie sits down with Jason Shaver, the play-by-play announcer for the Chicago Wolves Hockey Team, to discuss their incredible Adopt-A-Dog Program. A Unique Blend of Sports and Animal Welfare Jason shares how the Chicago Wolves have been championing dog adoption for decades, resulting in 1,885 dogs finding forever homes so far. We explore their partnership with local rescues and their strategy for hosting their Adopt-A-Dog Program at games. Their trusted rescue partners are Border Tails Rescue in Northbrook, Illinois and Wright-Way Rescue in Morton Grove, Illinois. Key Takeaways: Learn about the Chicago Wolves' successful dog adoption programUnderstand how sports teams can make a difference in animal welfareGain insights into the adoption process at these unique eventsDiscover the impact of giving shelter dogs a second chanceThis episode is a must-listen for animal lovers, hockey fans, and anyone interested in innovative approaches to pet adoption. You'll come away inspired by how a professional sports team is making a real difference in the lives of dogs and their new families. Learn more about their rescue partners, Border Tails Rescue visit their Website and Follow on Instagram, and Wright-Way Rescue visit their Website and Follow on Instagram. Jason Shaver has served as the voice of the Wolves since being named the team’s play-by-play announcer in August 2008. Shaver has been a huge advocate in the community, adopting many dogs over the years from the Wolves' Adopt-A-Dog program. Support the show Support the Podcast by Buying Us a Treat via Buy Me a Coffee Shop our Affiliate Partners: 🐾 Shop Mikko's Choice Use code 'storyofmypet' for 15% off🐾 Shop Superior Feline Use code “storyofmypet” for 15% off🐾 Shop Nuvita CBD for people Use code 'Julie10' for 10% offLoved this episode? Leave a review and rating here The Story of My Pet Podcast and Blog- Website - Instagram - Facebook Contact your host via Email- julie@thestoryofmypetpodcast.com Connect with your host, Dr. Julie Marty-Pearson – Website - YouTube - Instagram - Facebook - LinkedIn

    28 min
  8. Capturing Unconditional Love for Pets: A New Way to Remember Pets with DNA is Love

    07/29/2025

    Capturing Unconditional Love for Pets: A New Way to Remember Pets with DNA is Love

    Have you ever wished you could hold onto a piece of your beloved pet forever? In this heartwarming episode, I sit down with Dave Latorra and Stephanie Ford, the innovative minds behind DNA is Love, a company that's revolutionizing the way we memorialize our furry friends. As a scientist with a PhD in molecular biology, Dave brings his expertise to the table, explaining the fascinating process of extracting and preserving DNA from our pets. Stephanie, with her background in hospice care, adds a compassionate touch to their mission of helping pet owners create lasting connections with their animal companions. The Science of Love Dave walks us through the meticulous DNA extraction process, from the simple cheek swab to the final purified sample. You'll be amazed at how this tiny piece of your pet can be preserved for hundreds of years, allowing you to carry a part of them with you always. More Than Just DNA But DNA is Love isn't just about science. Stephanie shares her personal journey and how losing loved ones inspired her to find new ways to honor and remember them. Their company offers a range of beautiful, customizable jewelry and picture frames that can hold your pet's DNA, creating a tangible link to your furry friend. Preserving Stories and Memories We also discuss the importance of storytelling and preserving family history, including our pets' stories. This episode is a must-listen for any pet owner who wants to celebrate the special bond they share with their fur family members. You'll come away with a new appreciation for the science of love and the many ways we can keep our pets' memories alive. To Learn more about DNA is Love visit their Website and follow them on Instagram. Support the show Support the Podcast by Buying Us a Treat via Buy Me a Coffee Shop our Affiliate Partners: 🐾 Shop Mikko's Choice Use code 'storyofmypet' for 15% off🐾 Shop Superior Feline Use code “storyofmypet” for 15% off🐾 Shop Nuvita CBD for people Use code 'Julie10' for 10% offLoved this episode? Leave a review and rating here The Story of My Pet Podcast and Blog- Website - Instagram - Facebook Contact your host via Email- julie@thestoryofmypetpodcast.com Connect with your host, Dr. Julie Marty-Pearson – Website - YouTube - Instagram - Facebook - LinkedIn

    56 min
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4.8
out of 5
20 Ratings

About

Are you a pet lover with a rescue story close to your heart? You’ve found your new favorite podcast. 🐾 Welcome to The Story of My Pet, where inspiring tales of animal rescue, fostering, and adoption come to life. Each episode shares powerful stories from pet parents, animal advocates, and rescue heroes who’ve opened their hearts and homes to animals in need. From street cats and shelter pups to unexpected animal companions, you'll hear heartwarming — and sometimes heartbreaking — stories that celebrate the deep bond between humans and their pets. Whether you're a rescue volunteer, foster parent, animal shelter worker, or just someone who believes every animal deserves a loving home, this podcast is for you. 🎧 You’ll learn: How people around the world rescue and foster animalsWhat it’s really like inside shelters and rescuesHow to cope with pet loss and celebrate the lives of our furry family membersSimple ways you can help animals in your community 🩷 Want to share your story? Email Julie to become a guest! Contact your host via Email- julie@thestoryofmypetpodcast.com About Your Host: Dr. Julie Marty-Pearson is a Storytelling Strategist, Podcasting Mentor, and champion for women who are ready to share their stories and be heard. She coaches purpose-driven women to grow their visibility and confidence through podcasting, guesting, and speaking. Julie hosts two podcasts: 🩷 Podcast Your Story, which focuses on how to amplify your voice and grow their business through podcasting.  🩷 The Story of My Pet, a Top 5% podcast inspiring tales of pets focused on advocating and educating for animals rescue, fostering, and adoption Julie also created and hosts two communities: 🩷 Women's Podcaster Party Networking Community, for podcasters, guests, and speakers to connect and collaborate. Come check out our Monthly Networking Events. 🩷  Podcast Your Story Community Membership. Support the Podcast by Buying Us a Treat via Buy Me a CoffeeShop our Affiliate Partners & Sponsors: 🐾 Shop our sponsor Mikko's Choice Use code 'storyofmypet' for 15% off🐾 Shop CBD for people at Nuvita  Use code 'Julie10' for 10% every time you shop! The Story of My Pet Podcast and Blog- Website - Instagram - Facebook Connect with your host, Julie Marty-Pearson – Website - YouTube - Instagram - Facebook - LinkedIn - Pinterest & Listen to Podcast Your Story - Website

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