What Happens to Pets When Military Pet Parents Deploy?

What happens to a pet when their military family is suddenly deployed?
In this episode, I talk with Alisa Sieber-Johnson, co-founder of Dogs on Deployment, a nonprofit that connects military members and first responders with volunteer pet boarders across the country.
Born out of her own experience as a dual-military family with no options for pet care, Alisa turned a personal challenge into a national movement—ensuring no pet has to be surrendered due to deployment.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

• How Dogs on Deployment supports military families through fostering and financial aid
• Why volunteers are the heart of the program—and how you can help
• The inspiring story of a Marine pilot turned passionate pet foster

This episode is a powerful reminder of how community, compassion, and smart systems can come together to protect the human–animal bond, even in the most uncertain circumstances.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DOGS ON DEPLOYMENT:
Website: www.dogsondeployment.org
Facebook: DogsonDeployment
X: @DogsonDeploymnt
Instagram: @dogsondeployment

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our former name before we decided to fully embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same content, just with a name that fits better.

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Each week, get practical pet parenting advice and expert help for behavior issues, rising pet costs, vet visits, training, and everyday life with dogs and cats.

From puppy biting and cat aggression to separation anxiety, emergency vet decisions, and saving money on pet care, this show helps you cut through the noise and find real solutions.

No fluff, no guilt, just practical help so you can enjoy your pets and your life again.

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©Ⓟ 2026 Amy Castro