What are the emotional challenges faced by both professionals and pet owners? This episode promises to shed light on this intriguing question as we sit down with Valerie Bogie who has a unique breadth of experience in both animal care and veterinary social work. With over two decades of experience, Valerie shares her incredible journey from feeling overwhelmed and bullied in the workplace to finding her calling in veterinary social work, where empathy, active listening, and resiliency are key.

Valerie and I explore the unique applications that address human needs wherever a human-animal bond exists. We discuss the various levels of social work, from individual therapy to broader policy changes, and dive into key components like intentional well-being, grief and bereavement, and animal-assisted interventions. Valerie also highlights the link between human and animal violence, offering a comprehensive look at how this growing field is making a significant impact within the professional community. Don't miss this enriching conversation that promises to enhance both your professional practice and personal well-being!

ABOUT VALERIE:

Valerie is a passionate advocate for enhancing emotional support in the animal world. With a career spanning over two decades, she has garnered extensive experience across diverse animal care settings, including a veterinary hospital, an animal shelter, a veterinary behavior practice, training dogs, and caring for exotic animals in various zoos and aquariums across the country.  

Valerie’s journey took a transformative turn when she discovered Veterinary Social Work—a field dedicated to addressing the emotional well-being of humans wherever there is a human-animal bond.  Realizing the profound impact this support can have, Valerie became dedicated to spreading awareness and providing resources about this growing and expansive field. 

Valerie is currently working on her Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) degree with a Veterinary Social Work (VSW) certificate at the University of Tennessee- Knoxville, and will graduate in May of 2025.  Valerie works for Insight Animal Behavior Services and GRAZE (Growing Resiliency for Aquarium and Zoo Employees) focusing on human support services.  She loves sharing Emotional CPR and building customized workshops and presentations on various topics through her own business, Valerie Bogie, LLC.

Links mentioned in episode:

Linktree: linktr.ee/valeriebogievsw

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