Rescue Tails

Are you really reading your dog's behavior correctly?In this episode of Rescue Tales, hosts Dr. Robert Forto and Robin Lucas explore one of the most important skills in rescue work and dog ownership: understanding canine body language. From fearful dogs and shutdown behavior to confidence, stress, and common misinterpretations, they discuss how rescue workers, foster families, and adopters can better understand what dogs are communicating in real time. The conversation is inspired by a recent case involving Scooby, a rescue dog from South Korea, and highlights how assumptions, labels, and human emotions can lead to training challenges, failed placements, and misunderstandings between dogs and their owners. Robert and Robin share practical examples from both the rescue and training worlds and explain why successful adoptions begin with careful observation rather than assumptions. The episode also includes an update on Robin's move to South Korea, the challenges and costs of international dog transport, and a spotlight on Hesong, a six-year-old German Shepherd currently available for adoption through Rebel Rescue South Korea. If you work in rescue, foster dogs, volunteer at a shelter, or simply want to better understand your own dog, this episode provides valuable insight into reading the dog in front of you.This episode was recorded on the Shure SM7BSupport the ShowLike this episode? Share it with your dog training friends!Love this episode? Say thanks in true dog training podcasting style by leaving a review.FREE! Grab our 7-Day Real-World Dog Training PlanLearn more about Rebel Rescue South KoreaWe work with Dog Training Clients worldwide!Take our Understanding Drive Behaviors quiz to see exactly what drive your dog is in and how to begin to train for it.Join the On-Air Dog Training Coaching waitlist for a chance to be coached on the air by Dr. Robert or Michele Forto and get your dog training questions answered in real time.Sign up now for 20% off our Group Coaching Program and learn how to build the best relationship possible for your dog.Take your dog training to the next level by enrolling in our Peak Performance membership.Follow Dog Works Radio for more dog training tips: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn©2009-2026 by Dog Works Training Company® All Rights Reserved.

Moving overseas with dogs? Adopting a rescue? Dealing with barking, destruction, or panic when you leave? In this episode, Dr. Robert Forto and Robin Lucas break down separation anxiety, one of the top reasons rescues get returned.We cover:Signs (vocalizing, destruction, elimination, escape attempts, physical distress)Common adopter mistakes that make it worseTriggers (routine changes, new environments, past trauma)Practical first-30-days steps: routines, independence building, crate training, desensitizationRealities of international moves with dogs (visas, shipping restricted breeds)This episode was recorded on the Shure SM7BSupport the ShowLike this episode? Share it with your dog training friends!Love this episode? Say thanks in true dog training podcasting style by leaving a review.FREE! Grab our 7-Day Real-World Dog Training PlanLearn more about Rebel Rescue South KoreaWe work with Dog Training Clients worldwide!Take our Understanding Drive Behaviors quiz to see exactly what drive your dog is in and how to begin to train for it.Join the On-Air Dog Training Coaching waitlist for a chance to be coached on the air by Dr. Robert or Michele Forto and get your dog training questions answered in real time.Sign up now for 20% off our Group Coaching Program and learn how to build the best relationship possible for your dog.Take your dog training to the next level by enrolling in our Peak Performance membership.Follow Dog Works Radio for more dog training tips: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn©2009-2026 by Dog Works Training Company® All Rights Reserved.

Why do some incredible rescue dogs get ignored while others are adopted immediately?In this episode of Rescue Tales, Dr. Robert Forto and Robin Lucas of Rebel Rescue talk about the rescue dogs people often overlook. The older dogs. The shy dogs. The dogs with medical needs. The dogs were labeled “too calm,” “too scared,” or “too much work.”But many of those dogs become the most loyal companions imaginable.Robin also shares major personal news: she is moving back to South Korea full-time to continue her rescue mission on the ground with Rebel Rescue South Korea.If you have ever considered adopting a rescue dog, volunteering at a shelter, or wondered why certain dogs wait so long for homes, this episode offers a powerful behind-the-scenes look at the emotional reality of rescue work.In this episode:Why some shelter dogs are constantly overlookedBreed stigma and adoption biasThe truth about fearful and shy rescue dogsWhy “easy” dogs are often ignoredStories from rescue work in South KoreaWhat adopters should really look for in a dogRescue Tales is produced by Alaska Dog Works and hosted by Dr. Robert Forto and Robin Lucas.This episode was recorded on the Shure SM7BSupport the ShowLike this episode? Share it with your dog training friends!Love this episode? Say thanks in true dog training podcasting style by leaving a review.FREE! Grab our 7-Day Real-World Dog Training PlanLearn more about Rebel Rescue South KoreaWe work with Dog Training Clients worldwide!Take our Understanding Drive Behaviors quiz to see exactly what drive your dog is in and how to begin to train for it.Join the On-Air Dog Training Coaching waitlist for a chance to be coached on the air by Dr. Robert or Michele Forto and get your dog training questions answered in real time.Sign up now for 20% off our Group Coaching Program and learn how to build the best relationship possible for your dog.Take your dog training to the next level by enrolling in our Peak Performance membership.Follow Dog Works Radio for more dog training tips: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn©2009-2026 by Dog Works Training Company® All Rights Reserved.

On this episode of the Rescue Tails podcast, Dr. Robert Forto and Robin Lucas from Rebel Rescue South Korea break down the realities of pet travel, quarantine laws, airline crate requirements, health certificates, and the costly mistakes owners make when moving with pets.From South Korea to Alaska, Hawaii to Europe, they share real-world experiences helping families, military members, and rescue dogs navigate the complicated world of international pet travel.You’ll learn:Why some countries require quarantine for dogsThe paperwork that can stop your pet from entering a countryWhy airlines deny pets at the counterHow microchips and rabies titers affect travelThe truth about dogs flying in cargoCommon mistakes that cost families thousands of dollarsHow to prepare months before your moveIf you are planning a PCS move, relocation, vacation, or international adoption, this episode is packed with practical advice that could save you stress, money, and heartbreak.This episode was recorded on the Shure SM7BSupport the ShowLike this episode? Share it with your dog training friends!Love this episode? Say thanks in true dog training podcasting style by leaving a review.FREE! Grab our 7-Day Real-World Dog Training PlanLearn more about Rebel Rescue South KoreaWe work with Dog Training Clients worldwide!Take our Understanding Drive Behaviors quiz to see exactly what drive your dog is in and how to begin to train for it.Join the On-Air Dog Training Coaching waitlist for a chance to be coached on the air by Dr. Robert or Michele Forto and get your dog training questions answered in real time.Sign up now for 20% off our Group Coaching Program and learn how to build the best relationship possible for your dog.Take your dog training to the next level by enrolling in our Peak Performance membership.Follow Dog Works Radio for more dog training tips: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn©2009-2026 by Dog Works Training Company® All Rights Reserved.

Why do some rescue dogs wait months or even years for adoption while others find homes quickly? In this episode of Rescue Tails, Dr. Robert Forto and Robin Lucas of Rebel Rescue South Korea discuss the hidden biases that affect adoption decisions.They explore why senior dogs, black dogs, and dogs labeled as “imperfect” are often overlooked, despite being loving and loyal companions. You’ll also hear real rescue stories, including Scooby, Buddy, and Maple, and learn why adopting an older dog may be one of the best decisions you ever make.If you’re considering adoption, this episode may change how you choose your next dog.This episode was recorded on the Shure SM7BSupport the ShowLike this episode? Share it with your dog training friends!Love this episode? Say thanks in true dog training podcasting style by leaving a review.FREE! Grab our 7-Day Real-World Dog Training PlanLearn more about Rebel Rescue South KoreaWe work with Dog Training Clients worldwide!Take our Understanding Drive Behaviors quiz to see exactly what drive your dog is in and how to begin to train for it.Join the On-Air Dog Training Coaching waitlist for a chance to be coached on the air by Dr. Robert or Michele Forto and get your dog training questions answered in real time.Sign up now for 20% off our Group Coaching Program and learn how to build the best relationship possible for your dog.Take your dog training to the next level by enrolling in our Peak Performance membership.Follow Dog Works Radio for more dog training tips: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn©2009-2026 by Dog Works Training Company® All Rights Reserved.

Confidence is one of the most important and most misunderstood elements of dog training, especially in rescue environments. In this episode of Rescue Tails, Dr. Robert Forto and Robin Lucas explore why so many rescue dogs struggle with confidence and what owners can do to help them build it.The conversation begins with a deeper look at what confidence in a dog actually looks like, contrasting it with submissive or uncertain behavior. From posture and engagement to responsiveness and routine, confidence shows up in ways that many owners overlook.A major takeaway from this episode is that dogs do not simply “grow out” of fear-based behaviors. Without intentional training, those behaviors often become more ingrained over time. The hosts explain how routine, structure, and consistency play a critical role in shaping confident behavior.You’ll also hear practical strategies for building confidence through short, engaging training sessions, simple obedience work, and interactive games. The discussion covers common tools like puzzle toys and nose work, while emphasizing that engagement, not just activity, is what drives results.The episode also challenges a common mindset among dog owners: that love and coddling alone will fix behavioral issues. Instead, it argues that confidence must come first, and that clear expectations and structure are what ultimately create a calm, well-adjusted dog.If you are raising, fostering, or adopting a rescue dog, this episode provides a clear path forward to help your dog move from uncertainty to confidence. This episode was recorded on the Shure SM7BSupport the ShowLike this episode? Share it with your dog training friends!Love this episode? Say thanks in true dog training podcasting style by leaving a review.FREE! Grab our 7-Day Real-World Dog Training PlanLearn more about Rebel Rescue South KoreaWe work with Dog Training Clients worldwide!Take our Understanding Drive Behaviors quiz to see exactly what drive your dog is in and how to begin to train for it.Join the On-Air Dog Training Coaching waitlist for a chance to be coached on the air by Dr. Robert or Michele Forto and get your dog training questions answered in real time.Sign up now for 20% off our Group Coaching Program and learn how to build the best relationship possible for your dog.Take your dog training to the next level by enrolling in our Peak Performance membership.Follow Dog Works Radio for more dog training tips: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn©2009-2026 by Dog Works Training Company® All Rights Reserved.

Rescue dogs often arrive in their new homes with unknown histories and trust issues. In this episode of Rescue Tails, Robert Forto and Robin from Rebel Rescue South Korea discuss how owners can build trust with rescue dogs through routine, training, and consistency. They explore why many dogs struggle with fear, reactivity, and confidence, and how simple daily routines can transform chaos into confidence.This episode was recorded on the Shure SM7BSupport the ShowLike this episode? Share it with your dog training friends!Love this episode? Say thanks in true dog training podcasting style by leaving a review.FREE! Grab our 7-Day Real-World Dog Training PlanLearn more about Rebel Rescue South KoreaWe work with Dog Training Clients worldwide!Take our Understanding Drive Behaviors quiz to see exactly what drive your dog is in and how to begin to train for it.Join the On-Air Dog Training Coaching waitlist for a chance to be coached on the air by Dr. Robert or Michele Forto and get your dog training questions answered in real time.Sign up now for 20% off our Group Coaching Program and learn how to build the best relationship possible for your dog.Take your dog training to the next level by enrolling in our Peak Performance membership.Follow Dog Works Radio for more dog training tips: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn©2009-2026 by Dog Works Training Company® All Rights Reserved.

What happens when dog rescue crosses cultures?In this episode of Rescue Tails, Robert and Robin continue their deep dive into the cultural differences between South Korea and the United States, this time through the lens of volunteers, foster homes, and adoption outcomes.Inside this episode:• How Korean volunteers often view rescue dogs as “children.”• Why American volunteers approach shelter work differently• The impact of over-coddling on separation anxiety and behavior• Why do some dogs thrive in foster, while others struggle in shelter• The adoption gap between Korean and American homes• Scooby’s latest training update from Alaska• Dog of the Week: Caramel, a miniature poodle mix rescued from a city shelterIf you’re in rescue, military life overseas, fostering dogs, or navigating international adoption, this episode gives you a rare behind-the-scenes look at how culture shapes behavior, expectations, and outcomes for dogs.This episode was recorded on the Shure SM7BSupport the ShowLike this episode? Share it with your dog training friends!Love this episode? Say thanks in true dog training podcasting style by leaving a review.FREE! Grab our 7-Day Real-World Dog Training PlanLearn more about Rebel Rescue South KoreaWe work with Dog Training Clients worldwide!Take our Understanding Drive Behaviors quiz to see exactly what drive your dog is in and how to begin to train for it.Join the On-Air Dog Training Coaching waitlist for a chance to be coached on the air by Dr. Robert or Michele Forto and get your dog training questions answered in real time.Sign up now for 20% off our Group Coaching Program and learn how to build the best relationship possible for your dog.Take your dog training to the next level by enrolling in our Peak Performance membership.Follow Dog Works Radio for more dog training tips: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn©2009-2026 by Dog Works Training Company® All Rights Reserved.

What does it really take to give a troubled rescue dog a second chance?In this episode of Rescue Tails, Robert and Robin record from the Seattle airport as they bring Scooby, a young lab mix rescued from South Korea, to Alaska Dog Works for intensive behavioral training.Scooby’s past includes suspected meat farm origins, multiple level-four bite incidents, and escalating resource guarding behaviors in a shelter environment. With few training options available in Korea, the decision was made to transport him internationally for rehabilitation.This episode breaks down:• The real logistics of flying a rescue dog internationally• CDC import requirements and airline regulations• The true financial cost of saving one dog• Why some dogs deserve every possible chance• What kind of adopter will Scooby ultimately needIf you’ve ever wondered whether difficult dogs can be rehabilitated, or what goes on behind the scenes in international rescue work, this is an honest, unfiltered look at the process.This episode was recorded on the Shure SM7BSupport the ShowLike this episode? Share it with your dog training friends!Love this episode? Say thanks in true dog training podcasting style by leaving a review.FREE! Grab our 7-Day Real-World Dog Training PlanLearn more about Rebel Rescue South KoreaWe work with Dog Training Clients worldwide!Take our Understanding Drive Behaviors quiz to see exactly what drive your dog is in and how to begin to train for it.Join the On-Air Dog Training Coaching waitlist for a chance to be coached on the air by Dr. Robert or Michele Forto and get your dog training questions answered in real time.Sign up now for 20% off our Group Coaching Program and learn how to build the best relationship possible for your dog.Take your dog training to the next level by enrolling in our Peak Performance membership.Follow Dog Works Radio for more dog training tips: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn©2009-2026 by Dog Works Training Company® All Rights Reserved.

In this episode of Rescue Tails, Robert and Robin continue their intake procedures series by focusing on how rescue organizations can turn intake data into practical, effective training plans.Rather than collecting notes that sit unused, they explain how to convert early behavior observations into clear training goals, foster adoption matching, implement stress-reduction strategies, and protect length of stay. The episode covers handling plans, foster matching, red-flag thresholds, escalation protocols, and why standardized language matters when working with volunteers, trainers, and adopters.Using real-world rescue examples from South Korea and beyond, this episode helps shelters and rescues move from reactive problem-solving to proactive, outcome-driven training systems.This episode was recorded on the Shure SM7BSupport the ShowLike this episode? Share it with your dog training friends!Love this episode? Say thanks in true dog training podcasting style by leaving a review.FREE! Grab our 7-Day Real-World Dog Training PlanLearn more about Rebel Rescue South KoreaWe work with Dog Training Clients worldwide!Take our Understanding Drive Behaviors quiz to see exactly what drive your dog is in and how to begin to train for it.Join the On-Air Dog Training Coaching waitlist for a chance to be coached on the air by Dr. Robert or Michele Forto and get your dog training questions answered in real time.Sign up now for 20% off our Group Coaching Program and learn how to build the best relationship possible for your dog.Take your dog training to the next level by enrolling in our Peak Performance membership.Follow Dog Works Radio for more dog training tips: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn©2009-2026 by Dog Works Training Company® All Rights Reserved.

What happens after a rescue collects intake information on a dog? In this episode of Rescue Tails, Robert Forto and Robin Lucas break down how rescues actually use intake data to make real decisions about placement, medical care, foster needs, and adoption readiness.They explain how dogs are assigned to specific tracks, why the first 24 hours matter, how rescues assess operational risk, and why internal notes must be separated from public-facing adoption language. The episode also features Inu, a six-year-old Shiba Inu, returning to rescue and in need of a new home or foster placement.This episode was recorded on the Shure SM7BSupport the ShowLike this episode? Share it with your dog training friends!Love this episode? Say thanks in true dog training podcasting style by leaving a review.FREE! Grab our 7-Day Real-World Dog Training PlanLearn more about Rebel Rescue South KoreaWe work with Dog Training Clients worldwide!Take our Understanding Drive Behaviors quiz to see exactly what drive your dog is in and how to begin to train for it.Join the On-Air Dog Training Coaching waitlist for a chance to be coached on the air by Dr. Robert or Michele Forto and get your dog training questions answered in real time.Sign up now for 20% off our Group Coaching Program and learn how to build the best relationship possible for your dog.Take your dog training to the next level by enrolling in our Peak Performance membership.Follow Dog Works Radio for more dog training tips: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn©2009-2026 by Dog Works Training Company® All Rights Reserved.

Volunteering with a dog rescue sounds simple, but the reality is far more complex. In this episode of Rescue Tails, Robert Forto and Robin Lucas break down what volunteering really looks like behind the scenes, from daily shelter operations to long-term commitment, emotional challenges, and the skills rescues actually need.They discuss what makes a great volunteer, common misconceptions about rescue work, why retention is so difficult, and how people can meaningfully support animal rescues in their own communities. The episode also features Genie, a three-year-old Shiba Inu currently looking for a home.This episode was recorded on the Shure SM7BSupport the ShowLike this episode? Share it with your dog training friends!Love this episode? Say thanks in true dog training podcasting style by leaving a review.FREE! Grab our 7-Day Real-World Dog Training PlanLearn more about Rebel Rescue South KoreaWe work with Dog Training Clients worldwide!Take our Understanding Drive Behaviors quiz to see exactly what drive your dog is in and how to begin to train for it.Join the On-Air Dog Training Coaching waitlist for a chance to be coached on the air by Dr. Robert or Michele Forto and get your dog training questions answered in real time.Sign up now for 20% off our Group Coaching Program and learn how to build the best relationship possible for your dog.Take your dog training to the next level by enrolling in our Peak Performance membership.Follow Dog Works Radio for more dog training tips: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn©2009-2026 by Dog Works Training Company® All Rights Reserved.

In this episode of Rescue Tails, Robert Forto and Robin Lucas take listeners inside a real puppy mill rescue in South Korea. They explain how illegal breeding operations work, what life is like for breeding dogs, and what it takes for a small rescue to intervene safely.The conversation covers the rescue process step by step, from the initial tip to veterinary care, adoption challenges, and the difficult decisions rescues must make when resources are limited. The episode also features Handsome, a senior dog rescued from the mill, who is now looking for a home.This episode was recorded on the Shure SM7BSupport the ShowLike this episode? Share it with your dog training friends!Love this episode? Say thanks in true dog training podcasting style by leaving a review.FREE! Grab our 7-Day Real-World Dog Training PlanLearn more about Rebel Rescue South KoreaWe work with Dog Training Clients worldwide!Take our Understanding Drive Behaviors quiz to see exactly what drive your dog is in and how to begin to train for it.Join the On-Air Dog Training Coaching waitlist for a chance to be coached on the air by Dr. Robert or Michele Forto and get your dog training questions answered in real time.Sign up now for 20% off our Group Coaching Program and learn how to build the best relationship possible for your dog.Take your dog training to the next level by enrolling in our Peak Performance membership.Follow Dog Works Radio for more dog training tips: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn©2009-2026 by Dog Works Training Company® All Rights Reserved.