Our society has a mythologically-based approach to bringing companion pets into our homes, which can lead to all sorts of conflicts, and sadly, failed adoptions. This podcast is for dog rescues, fosters, adopters, and dog lovers desiring to smooth out the bumps of adoption and rescue. Hosts Emily and Libby provide evidence-based information on how to assimilate dogs into our human lifestyles in a way that is a positive experience for all species involved. Emily is a certified professional dog trainer; and between them Libby and Emily have over 2 decades rescuing dogs (and a few cats!).
How to Introduce Dogs to Cats, Chickens & Other Animals (Without Things Going Wrong)
Behavior consultant Sarah Dugger shares science-backed zoo methods with hosts Emily Wolf and Jenni Pfafman to safely introduce dogs to cats, chickens, and other animals.
22 Apr 2026TRANSCRIPT
Pattern Games in Real Life: How to Use Control Unleashed with Your Dog
Pattern games are one of the most powerful (and underused) tools in modern dog training—and in this episode, we’re breaking down exactly how to use them in real life.
Following our conversation with Control Unleashed creator Leslie McDevitt, Emily, Jenni, and Libby dive into the *practical* application of pattern games with rescue dogs, foster dogs, and client cases.
We cover:
What pattern games actually do in your dog’s brain
Why predictability is critical for rescue dogs
How to use games as an emotional barometer
Real-life examples with fearful, reactive, and overwhelmed dogs
You’ll learn how to implement:
Up/Down for grounding and check-ins
Ping Pong for movement and energy release
1-2-3 for navigating overwhelming environments
Look At That for changing emotional responses
We also explore why these aren’t “just distractions”—they’re tools for building skills, resilience, and communication.
If you’ve ever felt like your dog is overwhelmed, reactive, or struggling to adjust, this episode gives you actionable ways to support them!
Links and Resources
Resilience Rainbow: https://journal.iaabcfoundation.org/the-resilience-rainbow/
Train Me Please on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/trainmeplease
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for weekly behavior insights!
Website: https://www.podtotherescue.com/ (https://www.podtotherescue.com/)
Emily Wolf, Brilliant Pup Behavior: https://www.brilliantpupbehavior.com/ (https://www.brilliantpupbehavior.com/)
Jenni Pfafman, Elevated Dog Training: https://www.elevateddogtraining.com/ (https://www.elevateddogtraining.com/)
Libby Felts, Bolder Dog and Bolder Dog Media: https://www.bolder.dog/ (https://www.bolder.dog/)
24 Mar 2026TRANSCRIPT
Pattern Games for Reactive & Rescue Dogs with Leslie McDevitt | Building Calm, Confidence & Resilience
What if helping a stressed or reactive dog didn’t start with obedience—but with predictability?
In this episode of Pod to the Rescue, we’re joined by renowned trainer Leslie McDevitt, creator of the Control Unleashed program, to explore how Pattern Games can transform the lives of shelter, rescue, and pet dogs alike.
These simple, repeatable exercises help dogs process their environment, reduce anxiety, and build resilience—whether they’re navigating a chaotic shelter, adjusting to a foster home, or learning to walk calmly through the world.
We break down some of Leslie’s most powerful games—like the 1-2-3 game, Up/Down, Give Me a Break, and LATTE—and explain how they:
Reduce reactivity and overwhelm
Build trust between dogs and humans
Teach calm behavior without pressure
Help dogs generalize skills across environments
If you work with rescue dogs—or love one who struggles with the world—this episode is packed with practical, compassionate tools you can start using today.
Links and Next Steps:
On-Demand Webinars from Leslie McDevitt (https://www.cleanrun.com/category/online_dog_training_classes/control_unleashed_university/index.cfm)
Leslie’s Friends of Control Unleashed Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/419113494071244)
Lick and Learn (https://www.cleanrun.com/product/control_unleashed_lick_learn/index.cfm)
Connect With Us:
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @podtotherescue for weekly behavior insights
Website: https://www.podtotherescue.com/
Emily Wolf, Brilliant Pup Behavior: https://www.brilliantpupbehavior.com/
Jenni Pfafman, Elevated Dog Training: https://www.elevateddogtraining.com/
Libby Felts, Bolder Dog and Bolder Dog Media: https://www.bolder.dog/
Inside a recent episode
How to Introduce Dogs to Cats, Chickens & Other Animals (Without Things Going Wrong)
Published 27 May 2026 · Transcript excerpt
[…] Yeah. And then, yeah, we don't all have lofts and catios, but vertical connectivity is for sure the name of the game. One cat tree on the other side of the gate is not enough. So even before you bring home that new dog, maybe set up a cat tree with some shelving in that area that's going to be where the cat is going to be. So decide what that is in your house. And that way, that cat feels extra safe and is used to that space and then you start doing some howdy's supervised yeah and you can also teach the cats all of the escape routes in advance too um so yeah the the dog and cat the example you brought up earlier um before we even did howdy's We're like, this cat needs to learn how to get back upstairs. […]
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