In this episode of The Resilient Animal, host Annie Petersen speaks with Dr. Janet Hoy-Gerlach from Open Door Veterinary Collective about the profound impact of human-animal relationships on mental health and wellbeing. Dr. Hoy-Gerlach shares insights from her social work background and research, highlighting how pets can act as protective factors against suicidality, reduce anxiety, depression, and loneliness, and even improve overall quality of life. They discuss the importance of collaboration between human service and animal welfare professionals and unveil resources such as the Emotional Support Animal Resource Page and Pet Help Finder to support individuals and their animal companions. Various initiatives and organizations like the Michelson Foundation and ASPCA are also mentioned for their contributions to pet-inclusive housing and access to veterinary care.

Below are links to some useful resources:
Website: https://opendoorconsults.org/
Dr. Hoy-Gerlach's email address: socialwork@opendoorconsults.org
Social Work Hub: https://opendoorconsults.org/social-work-hub/emotional-support-animals/
Pet Help Finder: https://www.pethelpfinder.org/m/phf
Michelson Found Animals: https://www.foundanimals.org/
American Heart Association - Healthy Bond for Life
https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-bond-for-life-pets

Have you wondered what your animals are thinking and feeling?
This episode of The Resilient Animal features an intimate discussion of healing and communication with Cindy Richardson. Cindy discusses her preparation when communicating with all types of animals, including birds and an elephant.

This episode can be viewed with captions on YouTube https://youtu.be/2YYROvlJCTw

To learn more about Cindy and the services she offers, click on
http://www.chatswithanimals.com/
or
emailingcindy@gmail.com
and to support her care of her care of Cashew
https://www.gofundme.com/f/cashews-journey-to-regain-sight

The Resilient Animal chats with the one-and-only Michelle Meschko from Small Breed Rescue of Southern California. Michelle works with only small dog breeds (who need a little more TLC) and reptiles too!

Previously, we did a video of Michelle and her nonprofit for Animal Bond Academy. You can see Michelle in action on YouTube https://youtu.be/DgIBJAm-cNU
This podcast episode can also be viewed with captions on YouTube
https://youtu.be/grvYVm2GvCU?list=PL7p248H5KmY3A-z1nmgpPVHjo334goTmU

You can learn more about this wonderful organization here:
https://www.smallbreedrescue.org/
https://www.instagram.com/smallbreedrescuesocal/
https://www.facebook.com/SmallBreedRescueOfSoCal
https://www.tiktok.com/@sbrsc