Working in animal welfare and animal rescue can be incredibly taxing. Not only is it hard work, but it’s emotionally and mentally draining as well. You’re exposed to upsetting situations that effect both animals and people and it can take a toll on you. You're on call 24/7. So how do rescuers continue doing the important work they do?Cynthia Sweet, founder of Sweet Paws rescue, a nonprofit in Massachusetts, joins the show today to discuss how the fallout after a pandemic caused an uptick in surrendered animals, how she aims to address the root of the overpopulation problem through teamwork and partnership with other rescue women, and how she strives to find balance. Sweet Paws focuses on supporting animals in two of the poorest counties in Mississippi and Alabama, transporting dogs and cats who don't have a chance locally to their neck of the woods up north where happy homes await. We talk about how different parts of the country experience different issues for animals, how she deals with the sadness of her work, and how she keeps going despite the hardships. It's the good people. It's the good stories. She focuses on those.If you’re interested in getting involved in the animal rescue scene or perhaps even starting your own, this episode is for you. Tune in and hear Katya, Jenny, and Cynthia laugh and cry as they go over the importance of self-care, compassion, and community support, while remaining aware of intercultural relations and constant need in the world of animal welfare.Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.)