Inside The Strain On America’s Animal Rescue System

January 18, 2026 1

Zaleski’s farm has grown over the years and is now a non-profit operation that’s open to the public. She says animals wind up at funny farm for a variety of reasons.

More than six million companion animals enter U.S. shelters each year and a little over four million are adopted. Sadly, shelters still rely on euthanizing when facilities are overcrowded and an animal has been there for a while. Author Laurie Zaleski has made it her life’s work to rescue hundreds of these unwanted pets and care for them on her farm. We speak with Zaleski as well Dr. Joshua Fisher, an animal expert, about the importance of approaching any pet adoption with the mentality that it’s a lifelong commitment.

It’s true. Even purebreds, like the highly sought-after golden retriever, or designer breeds, like the popular cockapoo, which is a mix between a pure-bred cocker spaniel and poodle. These popular breeds can, and do, end up at animal shelters. Animal care and control experts say this often happens when pets are given as gifts.

Guests:

Laurie Zaleski, author, Funny Farm: My Unexpected Life with 600 Rescue Animals
Dr. Joshua Fisher, Director of Animal Services, Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, North Carolina.