Those that work with animals on a long-term basis often indicate that their experiences are rich and rewarding.  They also often disclose that working with animals requires a tremendous amount of emotional fortitude that can drain one’s resources emotionally, cognitively, and physically. This is because they are frequently confronted with situations in which they are prevented from doing what their training and values would indicate would be best for the animal. The success of an organization in helping animals is dependent on compassionate and caring people.  However, such empathy can become enmeshment, commitment can turn into exhaustion, and dedication can turn into codependency as one opens themselves up to interactions with animals.

 

This seminar focuses on the factors that increase compassion fatigue, including the thoughts and beliefs that underlie such burnout.   Special attention is given to the characteristics of animal care that can make it particularly challenging, including exposure to animal abuse, euthanasia, and overwhelming time constraints and demands, as well as ways to build healthy coping mechanisms and healing strategies.