Compassion Fatigue & Resilience Resources for Animal Shelter Staff & Volunteer Wellness

Four veterinary staff members sit in a lab having a meeting in front of a desktop computer

Compassion fatigue and resilience are significant issues in animal welfare as shelter workers and volunteers are continuously exposed to trauma and emotional stress. Awareness and tools are essential to prevent burnout and promote mental well-being within the shelter environment. Building resilience can help individuals better cope with the challenges they face, ultimately leading to better care for animals and a more sustainable sheltering system.

Addressing compassion fatigue and fostering resilience in animal sheltering environments can also play a crucial role in staff and volunteer retention. Shelters can create a more supportive and sustainable environment by providing support, training, and resources to help individuals navigate the emotional toll of their work. This can help increase job satisfaction, reduce turnover, and ensure that experienced and dedicated staff remain committed to the organization's mission of caring for animals in need.

Prioritizing the mental health of those involved in animal welfare is crucial for the long-term success of shelters and the well-being of both animals and humans. Check out these helpful resources to help create a trauma-informed shelter environment and proactively support the people working so hard to help people and pets.