A Veterinary Social Worker supporting individuals, organizations, and communities to recognize and embrace the human-animal bond to the benefit of all through innovative and sustainable programming. Through strengths-based conversation founded on the importance and value of our relationships with animals I work with individuals and communities to support human-animal bond through social work practices. The work varies from conversations about emotional support animals to developing a co-sheltering initiativ
As a PATH International certified riding instructor, I strive to empower riders to reach social-emotional, cognitive, and physical goals through partnerships with horses. Working as the Director of Program Quality and a lesson instructor, I develop a sustainable research agenda, and quality programs in and beyond the arena. Curious about integrating music therapy, creating staff empowerment strategies or anything else - let me know!
While much of human-animal bond is positive: empathy, compassion, love, trust… there is a dark side. The Link refers to the link between interpersonal violence and animal abuse. Animal abuse is noted as an indicator of IPV and is often cyclical and inter-generational. Cross-reporting for IPV and animal abuse are beginning to emerge, but there is much work to be done !