Jen’s lifelong love of animals and work experience in the nonprofit world have combined to create a meaningful career in animal sheltering. Jen became the Executive Director of the HSHC in August 2015 and every year since 2016, the shelter has achieved a 90%+ live release rate.
Jen and I discuss:
Her background and how her work and volunteer experiences led her to the world of animal sheltering;
How special needs animals keep finding her;
The importance of building “people” relationships to help more animals;
How to get involved in your local and state humane legislation;
Why it’s important to get involved in your local shelter and ask questions;
What does the term “No Kill” really mean?;
The importance of self-care in the animal sheltering world;
Replacing “compassion fatigue” with compassion resilience;
Pros and cons of social media for animal shelters; and
Challenges and successes of the job.

Links discussed:
Visit Humane Society of Harford County
Find HSHC on Facebook and Instagram too.
Humane Society of Harford County's 2019 Report Card
Maryland Humane Lobby Day
(Please note I was could not find a comprehensive link to Humane Lobby Day events in other states, so I encourage you to google “Humane Lobby Day + [your state]" to find out more about events in your area.)

Mid-Atlantic Animal Care & Field Services Conference
HeARTs Speak
Compassion Fatigue Resources: https://www.animalsheltering.org/topics/compassion-fatigue
Compassion Resilience: https://redrover.org/resource/compassion-resilience/

 
Please note:
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