Episode Details

In this heartwarming episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Joanna Muggli—devoted animal advocate, longtime supporter of the Ames Animal Shelter, and now the proud adopter of one of Ames’ most famous pups. You may know him as Good Boy—the injured dog who captured the City’s heart and became one of the faces of the shelter’s capital campaign. At home, he’s now known simply as Buddy.

Joanna shares the emotional story of Buddy’s transformation, the shelter’s critical role in his recovery, and what the future holds for animal care in Ames. As the shelter is in a bold campaign to build a new facility, this episode explores how community support can help give many more animals a second chance—just like Buddy.

Episode Highlights:

• Buddy’s journey from injured and abandoned to beloved community icon

• Joanna’s perspective on adopting from the Ames Animal Shelter and why she supports its future

• The challenges of the current shelter facility and the vision for a more modern, humane space

• Ways listeners can get involved—from donations to volunteering and adoption

Learn more and support the campaign: AmesAnimalShelter.org