Episode Summary: The MeatEater Podcast - Ep. 743: Stuffing Your Pet

Introduction

In Episode 743 of The MeatEater Podcast titled "Stuffing Your Pet," host Jake Hofer engages in an insightful and heartfelt conversation with Ace Alexander and Ray Macias, co-owners of Bischoff's Animal Kingdom, a renowned taxidermy shop based in Hollywood, California. Building on the shop's rich 103-year history, Ace and Ray delve into the nuanced world of pet preservation, exploring the technical processes, emotional considerations, and business dynamics involved in their unique craft.

Bischoff's History and Evolution

Bischoff's Animal Kingdom has long been celebrated for its expertise in creating lifelike prop animals for the film industry. Originally established over a century ago, the shop has adapted to changing demands, transitioning from trophy mounts to specializing in pet preservation. Ace and Ray shared, “The shop is 103 years old this year” ([03:58]) and emphasized their heritage by recounting their early beginnings and the legacy left by previous owners.

Pet Preservation: The Emotional Aspect

The transition to pet preservation brought a deeper emotional layer to their work. Unlike traditional taxidermy focused on game animals, preserving pets involves handling sensitive and personal requests from grieving owners. Ace articulates the emotional spectrum they navigate, stating, “We get a variety of people. Some people are just normal, you know, not too emotional. Some people are really emotional” ([62:15]). This aspect requires empathy and meticulous care to honor the memories of beloved pets.

Taxidermy Techniques: Freeze Drying vs. Traditional Methods

Ace and Ray introduced the innovative technique of freeze drying as an alternative to traditional tanning. Freeze drying preserves the natural structure of the animal by removing moisture without the need for tanning chemicals. Ace explains, “It's like the tanning process, but it's done by removing the moisture off and kind of it’s pretty much the same result” ([59:31]). However, they acknowledge the limitations, noting that freeze-dried specimens can become stiff and require additional methods like mesh backers and latex to maintain flexibility ([30:28]).

Challenges in the Pet Preservation Business

One of the significant challenges faced by Bischoff's is managing client expectations and the technical difficulties of preserving pets, especially older or medically compromised animals. Jake inquires about maintaining the integrity of the specimens, to which Ace responds, “If you bring in an old dog who's not in his prime, it might not be the best thing for you and hunting” ([85:07]). Additionally, the emotional weight of clients’ attachments necessitates a delicate balance between technical precision and compassionate service.

Collaboration with Film Industry vs. Pet Clients

Balancing projects for the film industry and personal pet preservation requires versatility and adaptability. While movie props often demand unique, sometimes fantastical creations, pet preservation focuses on realistic and faithful representations. Ace highlights, “We do like a lot of film work. We do lots of stuff for the films that has to be super creative” ([37:08]), contrasting it with the personal nature of pet projects that require a higher degree of emotional sensitivity.

Case Studies and Examples

Throughout the episode, Ace and Ray share various examples that illustrate their craftsmanship and the diverse requests they handle:

• Aggressive Dog Pose: Jake describes a scenario where he requested a mount with an aggressive posture, leading Ace to respond affirmatively, “Yes, definitely” ([90:35]).

• Preserved Dog Heart: A poignant moment involves a client’s request to preserve their dog’s heart, showcasing the intricate and detailed work required to meet such personal needs ([52:48]).

• Freeze-Dried Pets: They discuss the process of freeze-drying pets, emphasizing the importance of removing fats and oils to prevent deterioration, and the use of 3D scanning and printing to maintain anatomical accuracy ([54:40]).

Business Operations: Team and Subcontractors

Operating with a small team of six to seven employees, Bischoff's relies heavily on specialized subcontractors to handle various aspects of their projects. Ace mentions, “There’s a lot of people, great sculptors, Jesse... mold makers” ([77:03]). The duo underscores the difficulty in finding skilled artisans who can uphold the high standards required for both film and pet preservation, highlighting the challenges in expanding their workforce without compromising quality.

Future of Pet Preservation and Industry Trends

Ace and Ray observe a steady growth in the pet preservation sector, noting an increasing trend of pet owners seeking meaningful ways to honor their animals. They anticipate further integration of technology, such as 3D printing and digital scanning, to enhance the precision and variety of their offerings. Additionally, they discuss potential expansions into cloning services in collaboration with companies like ViaGen, providing clients with advanced options for memorializing their pets ([78:29]).

Conclusion

Episode 743 of The MeatEater Podcast offers a comprehensive look into Bischoff's Animal Kingdom, shedding light on the intricate art and profound emotional dimensions of pet preservation. Through their expertise and dedication, Ace Alexander and Ray Macias not only preserve the physical likenesses of beloved animals but also honor the enduring bonds between pets and their owners. This episode serves as a testament to the evolving landscape of taxidermy and the deep reverence for the natural world that underpins the MeatEater community.

Notable Quotes:

• Jake Hofer: “I'm not gonna get into why. But he's... he doesn't do pets.” ([05:13])

• Ace Alexander: “Most people think of the old ways of doing it because we got... mounts from the 30s and 40s.” ([83:30])

• Ray Macias: “It's like a power to that dog.” ([109:40])

• Ace Alexander: “It's just the way the heart came about. One person asked for it.” ([66:25])

• Randall: “We get calls from nature centers.” ([92:05])

This episode blends technical expertise with heartfelt narratives, making it a compelling listen for anyone interested in the intersection of natural heritage, personal loss, and the artistry of preservation.