Rescue Tails

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.

In this episode of Rescue Tails, Robert Forto and Robin Lucas tackle one of the most challenging topics in dog rescue: the 24-hour rescue fail. They explain why some dogs are returned within hours of adoption, what adopters often misunderstand, and how unrealistic expectations can derail even the most well-screened placements.

The conversation breaks down the 3-3-3 rule for rescue dogs, common behavioral triggers in the first days at home, and what rescues are doing to prevent quick returns. The episode also features Cory, a high-energy border collie mix who was returned after several months because...

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. 

Dog culture in South Korea has changed dramatically in recent years, but not always in the ways people expect. In this episode of Rescue Tails, Robert Forto and Robin Lucas break down the realities of modern dog ownership in Korea, from apartment living and small dog trends to training gaps, abandonment, and rescue challenges.

They discuss the recent ban on dog meat, cultural attitudes toward dogs, public perceptions of larger breeds, and why so many dogs are surrendered around one year of age or as seniors. The episode closes with a spotlight on Bebe, a six-year-old mini...

In this episode of Rescue Tails, hosts Robert Forto and Robin Lucas dig into one of the biggest struggles for every rescue, fundraising.

As the holidays approach, most nonprofits face the same challenge: everyone is overwhelmed, attention is scattered, and donations slow down. Robin shares what actually works for Rebel Rescue South Korea, from business partnerships to small “micro-fundraisers” that motivate people to help specific dogs in need. She also breaks down the challenges unique to rescues operating overseas, including why many U.S. grants aren’t available to them and how donor expectations can sometimes make things harde...

In this episode of Rescue Tails, hosts Robert Forto and Robin Lucas discuss one of the most important and often overlooked parts of adoption: training after rescue.

Robert introduces The Pack Program, a unique group-coaching system designed to help adopters, foster parents, and rescue partners achieve lasting success with their dogs. The program combines virtual classes, group coaching, and personalized support to help dogs and their owners thrive, no matter where they live in the world.

Robin and Robert also talk about the value of training for rescues like Rebel Rescue South Korea, explaining how ev...

Fostering saves lives, but it requires patience, a heart, and a bit of strategy. In this episode, Robert and co-host Robin talk with repeat foster Dr. Lisa DeVore, who joins us from South Korea to share what she’s learned fostering for Rebel Rescue for more than five years. Lisa opens up about the emotional side of fostering, setting dogs up for success, preparing families with kids, and the foster pup she’s currently working with, Aga, our Dog of the Week.

Whether you’ve fostered before or you’re just thinking about it, this conversation will help you un...

New rescue dog at home? Slow down, take a breath, and listen in. On this episode of Rescue Tails, Robert and Robin walk through the top 5 things most rescue dog adopters get wrong and how to avoid them, so you and your new dog can start off on the right foot. We cover:

• Why the first 72 hours of decompression matter

• Setting a routine that helps your dog feel safe

• Preventing too much too soon with visitors and outings

• What to do if you’re not feeling that instant bond yet

• How celebrating ...

In this episode of Rescue Tails, hosts Robert Forto and Robin Lucas explore what makes a rescue adoption truly successful, and why some don’t work out.

Robin, president of Rebel Rescue South Korea, guides listeners through their post-adoption process, from preparing their home and setting routines to navigating the four-week adjustment period and beyond. They also discuss cultural differences between Korean and American adopters, including why some rescues require dog Instagram pages and why decompression and trust-building are crucial for long-term success.

Later in the episode, Robin shares the story of Sierra, a six-month-old Jindo mix...

In this episode of Rescue Tails, hosts Robert Forto and Robin Lucas tackle an emotional and often overlooked topic: what happens to rescue dogs when military families receive PCS orders, a permanent change of station.

Robin, president of Rebel Rescue South Korea, explains the logistics, financial challenges, and emotional toll of relocating pets during military transfers. She shares real-world insight from working with families near Camp Humphreys and offers advice for responsible pet ownership, even when life moves fast.

You’ll also meet Munji, a resilient 10-year-old dog rescued from neglect in Korea. Her story of survival...

In this episode of Rescue Tails, hosts Robert Forto and Robin Lucas pull back the curtain on what it really takes to adopt a rescue dog, not just in South Korea, but internationally.

Robin, president of Rebel Rescue South Korea, explains their step-by-step adoption process, red flags they watch for, and how they manage adoptions to the U.S., Canada, Japan, and Europe. You’ll also meet Cookie, a clever mixed-breed dog with a heartwarming story of resilience and hope.

Whether you’ve adopted before or are just curious about how international rescue works, this episode will...

In this premiere episode of Rescue Tails, hosts Robert Forto and Robin Lucas take listeners behind the scenes of Rebel Rescue South Korea, a nonprofit dedicated to saving dogs (and cats!) from meat farms, hoarding situations, and high-kill shelters.

Robin shares five key facts about Rebel Rescue, the organization’s partnership with the U.S. military community near Camp Humphreys, and how cultural shifts are shaping animal welfare in South Korea. You’ll also meet Sammy, an eight-year-old Jindo mix whose rescue story will melt your heart.

Please tune in for real stories of resilience, compassion...