Animal House w/Deborah Roberts

Kenny Tallier with the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando brings along kittens Fran and Dan to talk about how June is National Adopt A Shelter Cat. Kenny also shares the exciting news about the roof getting installed on the new shelter next week, and how their website is a good resource for Hurricane Tips for your pets.

Zoo Teacher, Emma Aagaard, and Senior Ambassador Animal Keeper, Christina O'Donnell, joins us from the Central Florida Zoo, along with Spot, their spotted turtle, in honor of World Ocean Day. Despite not being living in the ocean, Emma and Christina talk about how clean waterways are important to ALL animal species. They also share the many events taking place at the Zoo, including Night Hike at the Zoo, Sunset at the Zoo, Cub Club, and more. Learn more at www.centralfloridazoo.org or call (407) 323-4450.

Darryl Payne with Pawfection Dog Training joins us for Animal House to answer listeners' questions regarding their dog's behavior, and to also share some important personal news.

Kenny Tallier and Brandy Bennett from the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando bring along Georgina, Kenny's Golden Retriever 'foster fail' to give an update on the construction of their new shelter. Kenny and Brandy also talk about the influx of kittens they've received during the annual 'kitten season,' what's on their Shelter Wish List, and where you can find all the animals they have available for adoption. Get more information at www.petallianceorlando.org or call (407) 351-7722.

Zoo Teachers Emily Geist and Alissa Jobe, from the Central Florida Zoo, share some fascinating facts about 'Meriadoc,' their lesser Madagascar hedgehog tenrec. Emily and Alissa also talk about their upcoming Sunset at the Zoo, as well as the remaining slots open for their Summer Camps. For more information, go to www.centralfloridazoo.org or (407) 323-4450.

Daisy Fiore, PhD, Senior Coordinator of Education with the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey, talks about their Baby Owl Shower: Eras, Celebrating 40 Years, to raise funds and awareness on how you can get involved with conservation. There will be crafts, games, a raffle, and visits with the Center's Ambassador birds. Admission is free with an item from their general wishlist or Amazon wishlist. Find out more at www.cbop.audubon.org or call (407) 644-0190.

Sgt. Jay Nix, from the Marion County Sheriff's Office K9 Unit, and former Orange County Sheriff's Office K9 Deputy Robert Ramos, talk about the new license plate that benefits K9's United and how the plate proceeds support law enforcement agencies in Florida, and even around the country.

Darryl Payne with Pawfection Dog Training once again answers listeners' questions regarding their puppies' and dogs' behavior, including when is a good time to socialize your dog, what size crate should you use, and even what is the best to leave on in the background when you leave the house: a radio or TV? Learn more at www.pawfectiondogtraining.com or call (407) 456-1066.

Kathy Burns and Kenny Tallier from the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando talk about what constitutes 'kitten season' and what listeners can do to help, either through adoption, fostering, or even volunteering. Kathy and Kenny also give an update on when their new shelter will open.

Senior Ambassador Animal Keeper, Christina O'Donnell, and Zoo Teacher, Chlöe Fawcett, and Flick, the gopher tortoise, visit from the Central Florida Zoo remind everyone of the importance of this keystone species, which is an organism that helps define an entire ecosystem. Christina and Chlöe also talk about upcoming events at the Zoo, including Brews Around the Zoo this Saturday, Hippity Hop the following Saturday, as well as a special Pay Once, Visit Twice deal going on. Get more information at www.centralfloridazoo.org or call (407) 323-4450.

Darryl Payne of Pawfection Dog Training helps some listeners' with various behavioral issues with their puppies or dogs. Some of the issues covered include excessive barking, skittish behavior in a rescue dog while training them, and even what to do when a dog eats poop. Get more info at www.pawfectiondogtraining.com or call (407) 456-1066.

Kathy Burns and Kenny Tallier from the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando talk about National Pet Poison Prevention Week and what common household hazards and even food that can be dangerous for your pets. They also introduce us to Doritos, a 3-month-old pup available for adoption to help celebrate National Puppy Day on March 23rd. Find out more by going to www.petallianceorlando.org or call (407) 351-7722.

Emily Geist and Chlöe Fawcett from the Central Florida Zoo bring along Coconut, an Amazon Milk Frog. Emily shares some interesting facts about Coconut, like how her large toe pads help her lift 14 times her weight, and despite being a frog, they breed high up in the trees. Chloe also talks about the varioys events taking place at the Zoo, including Brews Around The Zoo. Get your tickets and more at www.centralfloridazoo.org or call (407) 323-4450.

In this episode of Animal House, we talk to Elizabeth and Mike McAleenan, the owners and operators of Little Bit Wildlife Rescue, the only licensed permitted Wildlife Rehab facility in Lake County listed on the FWC, the Florida Wildlife Commission's website, to locate Wildlife Rehabbers. Elizabeth and Mike talk about their organization and how a podcast scam has affected the number of followers on their Facebook page. To show your support and to learn more, go to www.littlebitwildliferescue.org or give them a call at (561) 270-9328.

Miranda Nathanson with the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando gives us an update on the construction of their shelter after a fire destroyed their original structure in 2021. Miranda also discusses the benefits of becoming a pet foster, and she lists everything that's included when you sign up. Find out more at www.petallianceorlando.org or call (407) 351-7722.

Darryl Payne from Pawfection Dog Training helps listeners with the problems they're having with their puppies and dogs, including what is the best dog breed for a child with special needs. Darryl also assists with other issues like food aggression, and when is the best time to neuter your male dog. For more information, go to www.pawfectiondogtraining.com or call (407) 456-1066.

Senior Ambassador Animal Keeper, Christina O'Donnell, and Lead Zoo Teacher, Emily Geist, from the Central Florida Zoo, bring along Billy, a nine-banded armadillo, to promote not only his species, but also the 4th Annual Indigo Blues BBQ, taking place on Saturday, February 8th from 9AM-4PM. Proceeds will benefit the Zoo's Orianne Center for Indigo Conservation (OCIC). Get your tickets at /www.centralfloridazoo.org.

Jenny Volz, Animal Care Manager at the new Life exhibit at the Orlando Science Center, introduces us to Betsy, a 7-year-old Burmese python that is one of the animals to call the exhibit home. She covers the three distinct world environments that are featured: Rainforest, Ocean and Swamp.

Darryl Payne of Pawfection Dog Training helps listeners with their dogs' behavior and starts by sharing his own training experience as a K9 officer in England working for Scotland Yard. Darryl helps one caller whose dog runs out of the door as soon as it opens. He also shares with another listener why it's important to have their dog trained because it's beginning to show aggression toward family members and others. Book your training appointment by calling (407) 456-1066 or go to www.pawfectiondogtraining.com.

Kathy and Miranda from the Pet Alliance are in for Animal House to discuss Paws in the Park.

Education Specialist, Jifu Jennings, and Lead Zoo Teacher, Emily Geist, introduce us to Roberta, a red-footed tortoise which is native to South America. Jifu gives us an update on the dates still available for the Asian Lantern Festival, and how the lanterns are created. She and Emily also share some fascinating facts about the red-footed tortoise, including the fact that they can also be carnivorous. To get your tickets to the Asian Lantern Festival, Sunsert at the Zoo, or their many camps for school children, just go to www.centralfloridazoo.org or call (407) 323-4450.

Kathy Burns and Kenny Tallier from the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, bring along "Chi-Chi," a pup who just arrived from Puerto Rico, to discuss giving pets as gifts for the holidays. Kathy admits that, while the popular belief is that it isn't a good idea, several studies by large rescue organizations shows it CAN work -- if done correctly. To find your fur-ever friend, go to www.petallianceorlando.org or call (407) 351-7722.

Senior Ambassador Animal Keeper, Christina O'Donnell, and Lead Zoo Teacher Josh Brandel, bring along Chipotle, a Savannah monitor that is native to Africa. They share some fascinating facts about Chipotle, including how they store fat in their tails for when food is scarce, to using its forked tongue to "smell" the air much like a snake. Josh and Christina also remind everyone of the Asian Lantern Festival, Into The Wild, taking place on select nights through January. Get your tickets at www.centralfloridazoo.org or call (407) 323-4450.

Bree Burkett is the Program Coordinator for the Seminole County Animal Services and is also busy planning their 2nd annual Pet adoption event, "Paws & Claus," taking place Saturday, December 7th, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Fort Mellon Park and Sanford Riverwalk. There will be eleven rescue organizations with animals available for adoption, food trucks, $5 rabies shots and microchips, and, most importantly, your pet can take a photo with Santa! Get more information on their Facebook page, on Instagram, or by visiting www.seminolecountyfl.gov. You can also call (407) 665-0000.

Kathy Burns, Director of Operations, and Kenny Tallier, Transfer & Cuddle Break Coordinator, from the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, introduce us to Pearcy, a nearly 1-year-old pup who was dumped, along with his sister, at the gates of the shelter. Kathy reminds everyone how it's better to adopt and not shop. They also share the great news about finally breaking ground on their new shelter, replacing the one that burned down three years ago. Kathy and Kenny also share important tips for keeping your pets safe during the holidays. To see all the animals that are available for adoption, go to www.petallianceorlando.org or call (407) 351-7722.

Darryl Payne from Pawfection Dog Training joins us to once again assist listeners with solutions to their dog's behavior. In this episode, Darryl helps with dogs that jump, dogs that get aggressive with other people and pets, and when you should be concerned when you hear dogs playing, and it sounds kind of "ruff." Book your training appointment or get more info by calling (407) 456-1066 or go to www.pawfectiondogtraining.com.

Daisy Fiore coordinates the education programming for the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey, and shares how they are still recovering from Hurricane Milton that hit Florida just three weeks ago, destroying one of the aviaries, leaving some of their owls without a place to live. She also introduces us to Sanford, a red-morph Eastern Screen Owl. To help them meet their fundraising goal or to book a tour, go to www.cbop.audubon.org or call (407) 644-0190.

It's time once again for Darryl Payne from Pawfection Dog Training to join us and answer listeners' questions regarding their puppy or older dog's behavior. In this episode, Darryl helps with dogs who suddenly won't eat or drink out of their bowls, dogs that only go potty in the house, and when, or if, it's a good idea to use a shock collar. Book your training by calling (407) 456-1066 or go to www.pawfectiondogtraining.com.

Kathy Burns from the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando and their new Volunteer Coordinator, Kelly Hayn, join us today, along with 3-month-old puppy, 'Chocolate Creme Pie," who's available for adoption. We talk about how they made it through Hurricane Milton, as well as volunteer opportunities that are available, including for high school students looking for college credit. To find out more, go to www.petallianceorlando.org or call (407) 351-7722.

Senior Ambassador Animal Keeper, Christina O'Donnell, and Zoo Teacher, Emily Geist, joins us from the Central Florida Zoo and bring along some special "fear to fascination" animals, including a Mexican Redknee Tarantula named "Quentin Tarantula," and an Asian Forest Scorpion named, "Rue." They both share some fascinating facts about these amazing animals and how they differ from the ones in Florida. Emily and Christina also invite everyone to the Central Florida Zoo's Halloween party, the Zoo Boo Bash, and to the Asian Lantern Festival. For more information, go to www.centralfloridazoo.org or call (407) 323-4450.

Darryl Payne with Pawfection Dog Training once again joins us to answer listeners' questions regarding their puppy or dog's behavior. We cover the usual problems, like excessive barking, as well as peeing in the house. But we do cover one problem we don't believe we've ever had before: what to do when your dog "falls out of love" with you. Darryl also reminds everyone to go to www.pawfectiondogtraining.com to get a $100.00 off voucher for in-home training. For more information, call (407) 456-1066 or go to www.pawfectiondogtraining.com.

Angie, Ciji, and Daisy the dog, join us from the Humane Society of Lake County to talk about this weekend's Suds, Pups and Pints dog wash fundraiser, and how this money helps them cover their costs throughout the year. Angie shares how, despite having the word "Humane" in their name, they receive no money from the national organization and, instead, 100% of the money they rely on comes directly from the community. To learn more about the important work that they do, or to get details about Suds, Pups and Pints, go to www.humanelake.com or call 352-589-7400.

Team Lead Zoo Teacher, Jamie Ling, and Ambassador Animal Keeper, Nathan Jordan, join us from the Central Florida Zoo and introduce us to "Gordito," a Cane Toad, also known as the giant neotropical toad or marine toad, another invasive species in Florida. Jamie shares how pet owners need to be on the lookout for these animals since the cane toad has poison glands, and the tadpoles are highly toxic to most animals if ingested. Its toxic skin can kill many animals, both wild and domesticated, and cane toads are particularly dangerous to dogs. You can learn more about the Cane Toad and other animals at www.centralfloridazoo.org or you can call (407) 323-4450.

Darryl Payne from Pawfection Dog Training joins us once again to answer listeners' questions about their dogs' behavior. In this episode, Darryl covers what to do about incessant barking, how to help an animal that shows aggression after being at a shelter for a long time, when is the right time to spay and neuter your dog, and more. Plus, Pawfection Dog Training will once again be at the Second Annual 'Suds, Pups and Pints' on Saturday, September 21st, 2024, in Mount Dora, Florida. Learn more by visiting www.pawfectiondogtraining.com or call (407) 456-1066.

Kathy Burns and Sally Edmonds join us from the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, and bring along Giggles, a 4-month-old Calico kitten available for adoption. Kathy uses today's visit to explain how a cat's coat often determines its gender, and, more often than not, its personality traits, as well. To foster or find your fur-ever friend, go to www.petallianceorlando.org or call (407) 351-7722.

Jodi Carnevale, who founded Madi's Mission along with Travis James, introduces us to Toothless the Sloth, and shares some truly interesting facts about this fascinating animal. She also shares the goal of Madi's Mission, which is to help environmental awareness and conservation. Learn more at www.madismission.org.

Education Specialist, Jifu Jennings, and Zoo Teacher, Emily Geist, join us from the Central Florida Zoo and bring along 'Reptaur,' a Blue-tongued skink in honor of World Lizard Day. In addition to sharing some interesting facts about the Blue-tongued skink, Jifu and Emily also talk about their upcoming events, including the Zoo's fourth Sunset event of 2024, Sunset at the Zoo, as they proudly celebrate Native American & Alaska Native culture and heritage on August 23, 2024. To learn more and get your tickets, go to www.centralfloridazoo.org or call (407) 323-4450.

Christin Burford is the Founder and Director of the C.A.R.E. Foundation (Creating Animal Respect Education Foundation Inc.) The purpose of this non-profit entity is to provide a permanent home for non-releasable exotic & wild animals. Christin brings along two of her residents from the refuge: Petey, the Opossum, and Fergie, a Ball python. She talks about the influx of animals to their Foundation, and the interesting reasons behind it. Learn more about the animals they care for, and to see their Amazon Wish List, at www.thecarefoundation.org or call (407) 247-8948.

Kathy Burns and Rodney Purvis from the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando bring along Jacob, a Frenchie, or French Bulldog, to talk about how, despite the breed's enormous popularity, they are often plagued by health problems, most often caused by irresponsible breeders. They also discuss how your local shelter can help you find your perfect pet and how becoming a foster offers you the chance to help a shelter animal without the full-time commitment. find your fur-ever friend at www.petallianceorlando.org or call (407) 351-7722.

Debbie Helsel, Executive Director of the Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge, brings along Luna, an Eastern Screech Owl, to invite everyone to their Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show fundraiser coming up on September 7, 2024. Tickets are on sale now! She also updates us on the status of their construction project for their new facility. To get your tickets to the Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show fundraiser, or to report an injured wild animal, go to www.btnwildlife.org or call (407) 568-5138.

Darryl Payne of Pawfection Dog Training joins us to once again answer listeners' questions regarding their dogs' behavior. This time, Darryl tackles 'leash reactivity,' dogs who suddenly become aggressive, and when should crate your dog. Plus, Darryl shares some important tips on what to do if you ever find yourself in the midst of a dog attack. Book your appointment or get more info by calling (407) 456-1066 or visit www.pawfectiondogtraining.com.

Kathy Burns from the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando joins us to talk about the continuing 'kitten season' and how you can help by adopting a kitten for National Kitten Day on July 10th. She also discusses Fourth of July safety for your pets and how to keep them calm. Learn more at www.petallianceorlando.org or call (407) 351-7722,

Sgt. Jay Nix and former Orange County K9 Deputy Robert Ramos, along with retired K9 Drago, join us from K9s United to talk about their specialty license plate that is available for pre-order in Florida, and how the funds help smaller law enforcement agencies with the costs associated with having K9's on the force. Learn more and pre-order yours at k9sunited.org or call (904) 601.2220.

Zoo Teacher, Taylor Nelson, and Volunteer Coordinator, Sierra Dillard, join us from the Central Florida Zoo, and bring a lesser Madagascar hedgehog tenrec named "Pippin." Interestingly enough, although the word 'hedgehog' is in its name, Pippin more closely resembles a shrew than a hedgehog, and is actually related to an elephant. Taylor and Sierra also talk about how you can celebrate Father's Day at the Zoo, Sunset at the Zoo, as well as a Night Hike at the Zoo, a great way to visit the Zoo without the heat and humidity. Get your tickets at www.centralfloridazoo.org or call (407) 323-4450.

It's time once again for Darryl Payne of Pawfection Dog Training to stop by and answer listeners' questions. This time, he helps a listener with a beagle that whines when she doesn't get her favorite toy, to another dog who's just started stealing food off the counter, and everything in between. Schedule your training appointment by calling (407) 456-1066 or visit www.pawfectiondogtraining.com.

Cora Berchem, Director of Multimedia and Manatee Research Associate with Save the Manatee Club, joins us to talk about National Safe Boating Week, which is May 18-25, 2024, and how you can help protect manatees while out on the water. She also shares what a mating herd of manatees looks like, and what you should, or should not do, if you see one. Learn more at www.savethemanatee.org or call (407) 539-0990 or toll-free at 1-800-432-5646.

It's time once again for Kathy Burns from the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando to stop by, and this time she brought Fiesta, a two-year-old Belgian Malinois that is available for adoption. She also helps Jim figure out if getting a cat is a good idea, and how to protect our four-legged friends from the intense summer heat. To see photos of Fiesta, or to learn more, go to www.petallianceorlando.org or call (407) 351-7722.

Lee Asher joins us from The Asher House nonprofit Animal Sanctuary to talk about what it's like to devote your life to rescuing our four-legged friends. Lee talks about that it's like to sleep with 40 dogs in one bed, and what inspired him to establish The Asher House. Learn more at www.theasherhouse.com.

Daisy Fiore coordinates the education programming for the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey in Maitland, Florida, and she brings along Sanford, a 13-year-old Eastern Screech Owl who resides at the center to talk about their upcoming Baby Owl Shower to raise funds to offset increased costs incurred during baby season. Baby season is their busiest season for bird care, sometimes caring for over 100 young birds in May alone! The fun takes place on Saturday, May 11th, 2024, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm and is FREE with an item from their general wishlist or Amazon wishlist. Learn more at cbop.audubon.org or call 407-644-0190.

It's that time once again for Darryl Payne from Pawfection Dog Training to join us and answer listeners' questions. This time, he covers what to do when your new puppy treats your older dog like a chew toy and how old is a puppy before they become a 'teenager,' or adult? Darryl also discusses a really cool idea called a 'dig pit' that you can build for the dog that likes to dig. Book your dog's training by calling (407) 456-1066 or learn more by visiting www.pawfectiondogtraining.com.

Miranda Nathanson joins us from the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando to talk about the arrival of ‘kitten season,' and what that means. She also discusses how to become a foster for kittens of any age, and what they provide to help get you started. To learn more, go to www.petallianceorlando.org or call (407) 351-7722.