Veterinary Social Work for the whole community, one bond at a time.

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 initiative for persons leaving violence seeking temporary shelter. I would love to connect to dive into your needs and how we can collaborate!

AREAS OF PRACTICE

THERAPEUTIC HORSEBACK RIDING

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!

THE LINK: INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE AND ANIMAL ABUSE

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!

THERAPY, SERVICE & ESA DOGS

With more than 89.7 million dogs were homed in 60.2 million homes across America, there is no doubt that dogs are family members. Helping individuals and communities navigate the various roles dogs play in our lives had become a national conversation. Understanding the terminology can be difficult - let me help! Also, if you are looking for a service, I can provide resources and guidance for best practices.

ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT & COMMUNITY ORGANIZING

Wether looking to build a community dog park or add animal-assisted therapy to your clinical practice, there are conversations about logistics and sustainability. Human and animal needs need to be addressed prior to launching new, or expanding current programs. Though people often balk at them, logic models are a great resource. Let me help you navigate the considerations.

VETERINARY SOCIAL WORK

An emergent field of research and education, Veterinary Social Work is the study and practice of traditional social work, at the nexus of the human-animal bond. Education includes animal-assisted interventions (program development), grief and loss, compassion fatigue, and the Link. Professional certification strengthens practice and builds education. More information can be found here.

ADVOCACY

The power of one voice is not to be underestimated. Voice is the impetus of change, and your voice is the impetus of change in your community. Advocacy may mean talking to local politicians, and it may mean talking with a supervisor about integrating AAI into practice, and it may mean talking with a spouse about furthering your education. I am here to support you and empower you to use your voice!