The Animal Welfare Junction

About The Animal Welfare Junction

The Animal Welfare Junction is a podcast developed to bring awareness to different topics in animal welfare. The host, Michelle Gonzalez (Dr. G) is a veterinarian who provides affordable veterinary care in the State of Ohio, and also a Forensic Veterinarian helping with the investigation and prosecution of cases of animal cruelty and neglect. The topics presented are based on the experiences of Dr. G and our guests and include discussions about real cases, humane projects, and legal issues that affect animals and the community. Due to the nature of the discussion, listener discretion is advised as some topics may be too strong for some listeners.

Publisher

A. Michelle Gonzalez, DVM, MS

Category

kids & family · science · true crime

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

28 Dec 2022

Latest episode

11 Jul 2026

Latest episodes

116 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   11 Jul 2026

   Dangerous Dogs: Avery's Law and the Danger of an Overbroad Definition

   After the devastating dog attack that seriously injured Avery Russell, Ohio lawmakers passed Avery's Law to strengthen the state's dangerous dog statutes and increase accountability for owners of designated dangerous dogs. But does the new law accomplish its goal? In this episode of The Animal Welfare Junction, Dr. G is joined by Dana Pannella, Esq., an Ohio attorney with extensive experience in dangerous dog law, to examine what Avery's Law actually says, how it changes liability for dog owners and professionals, and why some of its language may create unintended consequences. Together they discuss: The attack that inspired Avery's Law How Ohio's dangerous dog laws changed The new liability requirements for owners of designated dangerous dogs The requirement to carry at least $100,000 in liability insurance—and the challenges many owners face obtaining coverage Why the statutory definition of a "dangerous dog" may be broader than many people realize How incidents involving injury may be interpreted under the law, even when the dog's behavior or the surrounding circumstances are disputed What veterinarians, animal control officers, trainers, shelters, rescues, and dog owners need to know Practical recommendations for reducing risk and staying compliant This episode explores both the strengths and potential shortcomings of Avery's Law, with a focus on helping listeners understand what the law requires, who it affects, and why the definition of a "dangerous dog" matters. Whether you're a dog owner, veterinarian, attorney, animal control officer, trainer, rescue volunteer, or simply interested in animal law, this conversation provides important insight into one of Ohio's most significant recent changes to dangerous dog legislation. Guest: Dana Pannella, Esq. 👍 If you found this episode helpful, please like, subscribe, and share to support evidence-based discussions on animal welfare, veterinary medicine, forensic science, and animal law. *This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Individuals with questions about their specific circumstances should consult a qualified attorney.*

2. 

   30 Jun 2026

   Who is Speaking for Ohio's Pets? Paws, Politics and Policy with guest Vicki Diesner

   This week's guest is Vicki Diesner, Executive Director of Ohio Animal Advocates. She joins Dr. G to discuss legislation currently being considered at the Ohio Statehouse that could improve the wellbeing of companion animals and those who care about them. On this episode we discuss: - Ban on cat declawing for cosmetic or convenience reasons - Ban on non-veterinarians performing surgical procedures, such as tail docking, ear cropping and dewclaw removal - Improving access to wellness care through increased registered veterinary technician utilization Learn about what each policy seeks to achieve, who is opposing the legislations, and what you can do to support these common sense laws that aim to improve the welfare of our companion animals.

3. 

   8 May 2026

   Wildlife Forensics - 2026 Animal ForensiCon

   The 2026 Animal ForensiCon in Orlando, Florida Dr. Adam Stern, Dr. Eileen Roy-Zokan, and Victoria Bradley describe what is Wildlife Forensics and how crime scene investigation techniques, DNA analysis, and animal victim examination can help build these cases for prosecution.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

1,272

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

16 ratings

Spotify

4.9 / 5

13 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 70 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

82

Social presence

0

YouTube

68

Engagement

77

Contact The Animal Welfare Junction

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.