ALL OF IT: Making Music for Fostered Dogs – Episode Summary

Released: December 12, 2024 | Host: Alison Stewart | Guests: Dan Pugach & Nicole Zaraitis

Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of ALL OF IT, host Alison Stewart delves into the intersection of music and animal welfare, specifically focusing on the rewarding experience of fostering dogs. The show features Dan Pugach, a renowned drummer and composer, and his wife Nicole Zaraitis, a Grammy-winning jazz vocalist. Together, they share their journey of creating music inspired by their beloved rescue dogs and advocate for dog fostering and adoption.

Meet the Guests: Dan Pugach & Nicole Zaraitis

Dan Pugach, leader of the Dan Pugach Nonet and the Dan Pugach Big Band, alongside his wife Nicole Zaraitis, a celebrated jazz vocalist, bring a unique perspective to the conversation. Their deep love for dogs, particularly pit bulls, has been a significant part of their lives and artistic endeavors.

Nicole On Fostering Dogs

Nicole begins by sharing how her passion for fostering began unexpectedly. “I had seen on Facebook an at-risk animal named Ozzie at the Animal Care and Control, and I didn’t know that they had at-risk dogs in New York City,” she explains (03:26). Her spontaneous decision to foster led to a lasting commitment, ultimately bringing her and Dan together as partners in both life and their love for dogs.

Adopting Pit Bulls: A Love Story

Dan adds, “I didn’t. I mean, I grew up with a small dog at home. Back in Tel Aviv, I had a little dog named Zelda. But our love for bigger dogs and pit bulls started through Nicole...” (04:05). The couple emphasizes that pit bulls, often misunderstood due to breed discrimination, are inherently good, loyal, and deserving of second chances.

Bianca Music for Pause and Persistence: A Tribute Album

The centerpiece of the episode is the discussion of Dan’s two-time Grammy-nominated album, Bianca Music for Pause and Persistence. Named after their rescue dog Bianca, the album comprises 11 original compositions that celebrate Bianca's memory and the bond between humans and dogs.

Honoring Bianca’s Legacy

Alison Stewart asks, “Tell us one thing that Bianca loved” (01:56). Nicole responds poignantly, “Bianca was really chill like she was, she was the sweetest... She had her own Instagram handle” (02:24). The album not only honors Bianca but also serves as a tribute to all fostered dogs who bring joy and companionship to their families.

The Bridge: A Song for the Rainbow Bridge

One of the album’s standout tracks, “The Bridge,” is a heartfelt tribute to the concept of the Rainbow Bridge—a folklore tale where beloved pets await their owners after passing. Nicole shares, “The Rainbow Bridge is the folklore tale that when an animal passes, they go to the Rainbow Bridge... It really helps me whenever I lose a beloved pet” (13:10). The song encapsulates the bittersweet emotions of loss and the enduring love for their pets.

The Importance of Fostering Dogs

Dan and Nicole emphasize the critical role fostering plays in the lives of rescue dogs and the broader community.

Benefits of Fostering

Nicole highlights, “Fostering is fantastic way to get to know an animal. It’s kind of like renting a dog” (05:19). This arrangement allows potential adopters to understand a dog’s behavior and personality in a home environment, increasing the chances of successful adoptions.

Challenges and Rewards

Nicole candidly discusses the challenges: “some of the challenges with fostering is that you get to know the dog as they decompress... But at the same time, most of the time it’s a beautiful upswing” (17:18). Despite the obstacles, the rewards of seeing a dog thrive in a loving home are immeasurable.

Listener Calls: Sharing Stories and Support

The episode features several listener calls, each sharing personal experiences with fostering and adopting pit bulls.

Danielle’s Pit Bull Love

Danielle expresses her unwavering love for pit bulls: “They are the greatest dogs... They’re just so loving, affectionate dogs and they’re just up for whatever you want to do” (06:38). Her story underscores the deep bonds fostered dogs can form with their families.

Stephen’s Adoption Journey

Stephen shares his recent experience: “We are fostering a dog named River... She’s great and we would love to place her in a home” (08:01). His enthusiasm highlights the ongoing need for foster homes and the positive impact they have on both dogs and humans.

Annie’s Appeal for Brooklyn

Annie calls to seek a forever home for Brooklyn, a five-year-old pit bull: “Barbara’s health is not good right now, so she’s unable to take him back... So I’m appealing to your listening audiences if anybody wants to adopt Brooklyn” (08:40). This poignant appeal emphasizes the urgent need for compassionate adopters willing to give dogs like Brooklyn a second chance.

Music and Messages: Bridging the Gap Between Art and Advocacy

Throughout the episode, Dan and Nicole intertwine their musical talents with their advocacy for animal welfare.

Songs with Purpose

Alison Stewart introduces songs from the album, each carrying a meaningful message. For instance, “Tolerance” reflects on enduring challenges: “Tolerance is just a pandemic experience... coming out the other side alive and well” (17:30). Nicole elaborates, linking the song to their fostering experiences: “Bella was a particularly tricky case because she was tolerating us just as much as we were tolerating her” (17:57).

Album Launch and Community Engagement

The couple announces an album launch party on January 8th at Joe’s Pub, inviting the community to celebrate and support their cause: “Album launch party... some of the album contributors and project winners” (20:08). This event aims to blend music with community activism, fostering a supportive network for dog lovers.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

As the episode wraps up, Dan and Nicole reiterate the importance of fostering and adopting dogs, urging listeners to consider opening their hearts and homes to animals in need. They share their Instagram handle, encouraging the audience to stay connected and support their mission: “WNYC is our Instagram... think, oh, maybe I should be someone who could foster a dog” (15:16).

Looking Ahead: What’s Next on ALL OF IT

Alison Stewart teases upcoming episodes, including a conversation with actor Tom Francis and performances by the West Village Chorale, keeping the audience engaged and anticipating future cultural explorations.

Notable Quotes

• Nicole Zaraitis (03:26): “I just thought that... you can foster and you can work with rescues, and you can work directly with New York City Animal Care and Control.”

• Dan Pugach (04:05): “How did you fall in love with pit bulls? I can be kind of ornery and an interesting, harder to read and an acquired taste.”

• Annie (08:40): “I’m appealing to your listening audiences if anybody wants to adopt Brooklyn the dog, beautiful brown pit bull who needs a second chance.”

Final Thoughts

This episode of ALL OF IT beautifully melds the world of music with passionate advocacy for animal welfare. Through Dan and Nicole’s stories, listeners gain insight into the profound impact of fostering dogs and the therapeutic power of music in honoring beloved pets. The heartfelt discussions and listener interactions create a compelling narrative that underscores the importance of community, compassion, and the enduring bonds between humans and their furry companions.

For more information on fostering and adopting dogs, and to join the conversation, visit WNYC.org/publicsong.