Episode Details

Have you ever wondered what happens when someone finally gets a real second chance—and a dog is part of it?

For many people inside the prison system, life can feel stuck. For many rescue dogs, the same is true. Both are carrying history. Both are learning how to trust again. And both deserve more than punishment or labels.

In this episode, Em sits down with Zach Skow, founder of Marley’s Mutts and the Pawsitive Change program, to talk about what happens when incarcerated individuals train rescue dogs inside prisons. They share how structure, enrichment, and daily care create responsibility, confidence, and connection—for the dogs and for the people working with them. Zach also opens up about his own journey through addiction, illness, and rebuilding a life with purpose. The result is a conversation about healing, dignity, and what rehabilitation can really look like.

Press play if you need a reminder that growth—and hope—can come from the most unexpected places.

Donate: marleysmutts.org/donate

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Email em@thedogwhoaskedformore.com to get in touch with Em

This podcast explores real life with dogs — including dog behavior, reactivity, dog anxiety, stress in dogs, fearful dogs, and everyday training challenges. It’s for dog parents who are overwhelmed navigating life with dogs and want a clearer understanding of their dog, practical support, and a stronger bond while creating a calmer daily life with their dogs. Episodes cover canine nutrition, dog body language, dog communication, dog food and behavior, gut health, dog wellness, enrichment for dogs, dog enrichment activities, routines, dog lifestyle, and regulation — so life with your dog can feel calmer, more manageable, and more sustainable. Hosted by a dog trainer, canine nutrition coach, and retired vet tech, the show blends training, nutrition, and enrichment to support and bond with sensitive, anxious, pure-bred, and rescue dogs at home and in real life.

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