Episodes
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We are back with Colonel Carla Bass, USAF (Ret), who is a force to be reckoned with, to talk about the final installment of "Writing To Influence".
We explore the last three word sculpting techniques: "Who Does What to Whom," "Keep the Focus and Shut the Gate," and "Revise, Edit, and Proofread."
Drawing from her Air Force career, Carla stresses concise writing for effective communication. She also introduces the concept of tethers and provides examples, emphasizing their role in strengthening sentences.
The discussion underscores the importance of reading aloud to detect and correct errors, empowering writers in the animal service industry to craft compelling narratives.
Guest Links:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carladbass/
To contact Carla: [email protected]
Carla Bass -- Write To Influence (Book) https://www.amazon.com/Write-Influence-Appraisals-Scholarships-Internships/dp/0997593024/
From Carla's Blog: https://writetoinfluence.net/articles-and-writing-tips/frame-a-winning-argument/
https://writetoinfluence.net/articles-and-writing-tips/want-to-win-an-argument-strategize-it/
Show Links:
https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/
https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation
Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation
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Today I have the pleasure of welcoming Clarice Ritchie, the executive director of Paws for People, back to the show to discuss the success of her recent WagAthon fundraiser and to delve deeper into the significance of pets in our lives.
Clarice shares her personal perspective on why pets matter, highlighting the profound joy and unconditional love they bring into our homes.
We explore Paws for People's mission as a pet therapy organization and the vital role of fundraising in supporting their training programs and materials for therapy teams.
Throughout our conversation, Clarice talks about the importance of ongoing support and training for volunteers, ensuring the effectiveness of therapy visits and the well-being of both humans and animals involved.
Guest Links:
https://www.pawsforpeople.org/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarice-ritchie-290b1670/
Show Links:
https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/
https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation
Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation
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My good friend Kate Rosenthal, Marketing and Events Manager for PAWS for People joins us today to talk about their Annual WAG and Walkathon.
Why do pets matter to Kate?
Pets provide unconditional love and bring us joy! In addition to the emotional benefits, interacting with a pet has proven health benefits.
PAWS for People enables individuals with their own, gentle, affectionate dogs, cats & bunnies to share those amazing benefits by training them to provide pet therapy to those in need.
The 15th Annual WAG & Walkathon is PAWS for People’s signature event. Get ready to "Make Every Step Count" during this year’s month-long, cumulative marathon in partnership with the Kennel Club of Philadelphia's National Dog Show.
Join this fabulous group for 30 days of mile-tracking & fun challenges, concluding with the in-person PAWS Furry Fall Festival on Saturday, October 21st at Glasgow Park in Newark, Delaware.
To register for or donate to the WAG & Walkathon: https://www.pawsforpeople.org/walkathon/
For volunteers: https://www.pawsforpeople.org/get-involved/
For site/visit requests: https://www.pawsforpeople.org/request-paws/
More About PAWS for People:
PAWS for People™ (Pet-Assisted Visitation Volunteer Services, or PAWS) is a nonprofit organization committed to providing therapeutic visits to any person in the community who would benefit from interaction with a well-trained, loving pet.
What makes PAWS for People stand above other pet therapy services is the emphasis we place on providing individualized therapeutic experiences for every person we visit.
Their strict standards in training and testing dogs, cats, and bunnies ensure every therapy team is capable of meeting the various needs of our diverse clientele.
PAWS is most active throughout Delaware, but also serves areas in southern Pennsylvania, northeast Maryland, and southern New Jersey. PAWS visits people of all ages, ethnicities and income levels.
PAWS for People is a 501(c)(3). Our Tax ID# is 76-0780197.
More About Kate:
Kate Rosenthal joined PAWS for People in 2018 in the role of Volunteer & Site Manager for PAWS children's programs and in 2022 accepted the new role of Marketing and Events Manager.
She brings over 20 years of nonprofit experience, serving as staff, volunteer, and trustee with several professional associations and schools.
In her spare time, Kate enjoys reading, baking, and spending time with her husband, two children, and their pups, Maizy and Luka.
Connect with Kate and PAWS for People
Website - www.pawsforpeople.orgWalkathon Event Website - https://secure.frontstream.com/2023walkathonFB: https://facebook.com/PAWSforPeopleInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pawsforpeople/
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I am so excited to introduce everyone to Colonel Carla Bass. Carla is the force behind "Write With Influence." I met her earlier this year during an event hosted by the AKC Legislative Conference. The AKC Legislative Governmental Group brought her in to teach the legislative liaisons how to write more effectively to communicate better with local and national legislators.
You are probably asking yourself, "What does this have to do with pets?"
What Carla teaches will help us communicate better with our breeders, handlers, veterinarians, and even the other people in our lives.
Dean Koontz Quotes:
“Once you have had a wonderful dog, a life without one, is a life diminished.”― , A Big Little Life: A Memoir of a Joyful Dog
"The opportunity to love a dog and to treat it with kindness is an opportunity for a lost and selfish heart to be redeemed. They are powerless and innocent, and it is how we treat the humblest among us that surely determines the fate of our souls."
"Petting, scratching, and cuddling a dog could be as soothing to the mind and heart as deep meditation and almost as good for the soul as prayer."
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Carla empowers others to achieve their goals through persuasive writing.
She is an award-winning author, speaker, coach, and adjunct university instructor.
Her course, "Catapult Your Career--Write to Influence!" is available on Teachable. com!To contact Carla: [email protected]
Resources mentioned during the call:
Carla Bass -- Write To Influence (Book)
https://www.amazon.com/Write-Influence-Appraisals-Scholarships-Internships/dp/0997593024/
From Carla's Blog:
https://writetoinfluence.net/articles-and-writing-tips/frame-a-winning-argument/
https://writetoinfluence.net/articles-and-writing-tips/want-to-win-an-argument-strategize-it/
The Third Side - Why We Fight and How We Can Stop -- Willian Ury
https://www.amazon.com/Third-Side-Why-Fight-Stop/dp/0140296344/
Myers-Briggs Framework -- https://www.myersbriggs.org/my-mbti-personality-type/myers-briggs-overview/
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I can't wait for you to listen to this podcast with Suzanne Cannon co-founder of VetBilling.com.
She has created an amazing service that can help every pet owner figure out a way to pay for their pet's veterinary care.
VetBilling's flexible, client-friendly payment solutions allow veterinarian teams to deliver affordable relationship-centered care when a client may have otherwise been forced to make a different choice.
Quite frankly, it blows my mind that every veterinary clinic in the country isn't using the VetBilling.com service. So, if your veterinarian isn't offering this as a payment option, we're going to tell you how to get Suzanne's information to them during the show.
Why are pets important to Suzanne? In her own words -- Pets are the one way we experience unconditional love while we are alive on Earth.
"I have loved animals probably since I took my first breath! Which was interesting to my parents who raised me in Los Angeles, with very few animals around our neighborhood and none in our household. But if animals were around anywhere, I'd find them and befriend them.
From the time I was 3, I was obsessed with horses; I rode my first horse at 4; started taking lessons at age 6, and by then I'd gotten my first cat and dog. My connection to animals is not something I can logically explain, but they matter deeply to me as sentient beings who enrich our lives enormously, model unconditional love and acceptance, and call us to be better versions of our human selves.
I cannot imagine my life without companion animals in it.
I'm also an introvert, and it's often easier for me to feel more comfortable with animals than people. I feel a deep spiritual connection with animals, and I hold them in reverence as sacred beings."
More about Suzanne Cannon:
Suzanne co-founded VetBilling® in 2014, after a $ 4,000 emergency vet bill awakened her to the realization that too many pet owners lack accessible options for financing the cost of veterinary care. VetBilling’s mission is to keep pets and their families together, by reducing economic euthanasia and surrenders driven by lack of access to the credit and cash reserves necessary for managing unexpected veterinary expenses.
Suzanne has presented on the topic of financial access to care for Maddie’s Fund, the Access to Veterinary Care Coalition, Cornell University’s Center for Veterinary Business and Entrepreneurship, VetPartners, and the Veterinary Science Technology Program at SUNY-Delhi. She has also created two RACE-approved CE courses on managing client financial constraints in the veterinary clinical setting.
Suzanne holds an M.S. in Pastoral Counseling from Loyola University of Maryland and an M.A. in Jewish Studies from Baltimore Hebrew University. With a prior professional background in pastoral counseling, Suzanne is passionate about helping veterinarians and pet owners identify financial solutions in a collaborative atmosphere of emotional safety.
Suzanne lives on 4 acres in the rolling countryside of Carroll County, Maryland along with her partner in life and in business, Tony Ferraro. Together they share 3 dogs - an Otterhound, Scout; a miniature schnauzer, Finch; and Sophie, a Maltese that was inherited from a relative who recently passed away. Suzanne also owns Chase, a Clydesdale/Thoroughbred cross, who is retired from foxhunting and dressage and now enjoys hacking out on wooded trails as often as possible.
Resources Mentioned During The Show:
Link to credit article Suzanne mentioned during our conversation:
https://vetbilling.com/excellent-credit-score-declined-for-credit-yes-it-happens-to-your-veterinary-clients/
VetBilling Info and Website:https://www.vetbilling.com
The business Suzanne co-founded with her partner 10 years ago, VetBilling, is one solution for mitigating the cost barrier to care.
VetBilling’s mission is to keep pets and their families together, by reducing economic euthanasia and surrenders driven by lack of access to the credit and cash reserves necessary for managing unexpected veterinary expenses.
VetBilling equips veterinary practices with a cloud-based payment management platform that allows veterinarians to confidently offer in-house payment and budgeting plans to the 60% of clients who are ineligible for conventional credit-based financing.
Open Door Veterinary Collective:
https://www.opendoorconsults.org
This nonprofit organization teaches veterinary practices how to sustainably expand access to veterinary care while remaining profitable and financially healthy.
Frontiers in Veterinary Science, brief research report: "Payment options: An analysis of 6 years of payment plan data and potential implications for for-profit clinics, non-profit veterinary providers, and funders of access to care initiatives"
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2022.895532/full
Connect with Suzanne and the VetBilling Team:
https://www.facebook.com/VetBilling
https://www.instagram.com/vetbilling/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/electronic-billing-&-customer-support/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzannecannonvetbilling/
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Today Dr. Michael Blackwell, DVM from the University of Tennessee joins us for an exceptionally thought-provoking conversation about moving veterinary care into the 21st century, setting appropriate expectations, having a positive perspective and approaching this new era of veterinary medicine with mindfulness and compassion.
He believes that pets help us to be better humans by their demonstration of love and compassion.
More About Dr. Blackwell:
Dr. Michael Blackwell has led a life of public service spanning private practice, government, and academia. This diverse professional journey has enabled him to deeply appreciate the importance of the human-animal bond.
Dr. Blackwell currently serves as the Director of the Program for Pet Health Equity in the Center for Behavioral Health Research, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and as Director at AlignCare Health Inc.
His mission is to improve access to veterinary care, especially for families with limited means.
Connect with Dr. Blackwell:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-blackwell-06a6066/
Program for Pet Health Equity: https://pphe.utk.edu/
AlignCare:https://www.aligncarehealth.org/main
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Today Rachel Lemcke joins us for a conversation about the important service she provides veterinary teams that saves them time and money by strategically planning and utilizing their lab equipment and services.
Rachel is focused on boosting efficiency and profitability in the lab without sacrificing the quality of medicine.
To put it very simply, she helps your vet get the information they need for testing products at the best price so they can do more for their team and clients without increasing prices. So, please be sure to share this podcast with them!
More about Rachel Lemcke:
Rachel is the founder of Amwell Data Services, a full-service independent veterinary laboratory consulting agency. She formed Amwell Data Services to help give veterinarians and their teams more margin, with the larger goal of helping make careers in veterinary medicine more sustainable.
Throughout her time as a veterinary Lab Manager, she realized many veterinary practices aren't leveraging their laboratory services as well as they could for overall practice stability and growth.
From pricing analysis to equipment and test selection to improving workflow efficiencies, Rachel is dedicated to morphing the veterinary laboratory into a thriving, evolving asset for vets and their teams.
For veterinarians looking to learn more, a free discovery call with Rachel is available at https://amwelldataservices.com
Connect with Rachel and Amwell Data Services:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/amwellds/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/amwellds
LinkedIn: Rachel Lemcke & Amwell Data Services LLC
https://www.linkedin.com/in/independent-veterinary-laboratory-consultant/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/amwell-data-services-llc/
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Today we are talking to Jamie McLaughlin and Dylan Clark about a very special Marine -- Sergeant Reckless - a Korean War Hero.
Who was Sgt. Reckless?How did she end up in the US Marine Corps?What were Sgt. Reckless’s accomplishments?How were her accomplishments recognized?How is Sgt. Reckless different from other animals who have served in the military?What veterans’ benefits has Sgt. Reckless earned through her service?Why should Sgt. Reckless be buried in a national cemetery?What cemeteries would be the best options for her?Supporting Project Reckless is a grassroots campaign and we are asking those who support it to sign Dylan Clark’s Change.org petition. Please be sure to share the petition on social media so we can ensure her contributions to our country are never forgotten. Sergeant Reckless wasn’t a horse, she was a MARINE!
Resources for our listeners:
Change.org petition. Please sign and share on social media:
https://www.change.org/p/give-decorated-u-s-war-horse-the-burial-she-deserves/
Online articles about Project Reckless:
https://www.audacy.com/connectingvets/news/honoring-the-fallen/petition-seeks-national-cemetery-burial-for-marine-war-horse
https://www.insidenova.com/headlines/burial-for-war-horse-sought-at-arlington-national-cemetery/article_b49064b0-da0e-11ed-9d33-3b17ee8587e8.html
Three Pearls Charities Inc. Project Reckless page:https://threepearls.org/projects/project-reckless/
About Jamie McLaughlin:
Jamie believes pets matter to themselves. They have unique individual lives. Pets and other animals have wants and needs, likes and dislikes, friends and enemies. The more I learn, the more my view of animals evolves.
She is an animal welfare and environmental attorney. She holds a J.D. with a Certificate in Public Interest Law from DePaul University College of Law in Chicago, Illinois, and an LL.M. in animal law from Lewis & Clark Law School in Portland, Oregon.
Jamie received her B.A. in anthropology and English from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.
She has a background in finance and holds a Certified Financial Planner designation. Jamie is a former financial planning franchise owner and served as a personal financial advisor to Silicon Valley professionals for over 17 years where she provided portfolio oversight, wealth management, insurance analysis and financial goal planning.
In 2018, Jamie transitioned from her financial planning practice to pursue animal and environmental law. Jamie’s animal law concentrations are animal status, and the impacts of industrial animal agriculture models on the environment, humans and nonhuman animals.
She serves as Vice President of the Animal Law Commission Working Group for the Union Internationale des Avocats (International Association of Lawyers) and is pursuing an LL.M in environmental law at Lewis & Clark.
Contact Jamie at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-mclaughlin-531313a4/ [email protected]
About Dylan Clark:
Dylan believes pets matter because humanity has been dependent upon other species for our development and flourishing throughout time. Our K-9 friends have been our guardians and hunting companions for tens of thousands of years; cats and oxen made early agriculture easier and more productive; horses revolutionized transportation; and pigeons revolutionized communication. Animals matter because without our animal friends, civilization as we know it would not exist.
He is the acting Vice President of Operations for Logistical Legal Marketing, LLC. He provides marketing and logistical business advice for multiple law firms across several jurisdictions in the western United States.
Dylan was a Ronald E. McNair Scholar, and published a case study titled The Industrial and Environmental Pressures Affecting the Fante-Speaking Artisanal Fishers of Anomabo, Ghana.
He served as a USMC tank commander in the 4th Marine Armor Division in Spokane, Washington.
Dylan received his J.D. from Northwestern School of Law of Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon.
His concentration is the intersection of human rights and the environment, and he is actively working with local Ghanaian groups to address international fisheries abuses that both impact the oceanic environment and diminish the well-being of millions of people who depend on fish stocks as their primary source of protein.
About Sergeant Reckless:
Sergeant Reckless was a decorated warhorse who served in the Korean War. The Mongolian mare was purchased in 1952 at a racetrack in Seoul, Korea. She was trained to be a pack horse for the 5th Marine Regiment's Anti-Tank Company.
During the war, Sergeant Reckless carried ammunition to the front lines and helped rescue wounded soldiers. She carried supplies and ammunition to dangerous outposts and carried wounded soldiers from the battlefield to safety.
She often traveled to deliver supplies to the troops on her own, without a handler.
Sergeant Reckless was promoted to the rank of Sergeant while still in Korea in 1954. She was promoted twice to Staff Sergeant at Camp Pendleton. Her last promotion was by the Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen Randolph McCall Pate.
Sergeant Reckless retired on November 10, 1960, and died on May 13, 1968.
You can learn more about Reckless’ career and legacy in the petition here. The petition has the goal of 500 signatures.
https://www.change.org/p/give-decorated-u-s-war-horse-the-burial-she-deserves
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Community helping community. My dear friend and pet photographer extraordinaire Mindy Dutka joins us during this episode of "Why Do Pets Matter?" to discuss her recent trip to Mexico.
Each day in Mexico, thousands of dogs suffer terrible neglect and abuse simply because they have no home and no one to love them.
More than 40,000 homeless dogs roam the streets of Playa del Carmen alone.
Even worse, most of these dogs are not fixed, unvaccinated, and suffer from lack of food, lack of shelter, and unimaginable injuries from living on the streets.
Vet care is so expensive that when a family dog falls pregnant or ill, oftentimes, that family has no choice but to give the dog up. For many impoverished people, an impossible choice has to be made: to feed yourself or your pet.
SOS El Arca, a Playa del Carmen-based nonprofit, has already given thousands of people another option. Hosting free monthly spay-neuter-clinics, the group has sterilized over 6500 beloved pets. Current figures estimate that just 5 years of these monthly clinics would ultimately turn the tide for the region’s animals.
These clinics aren’t TNR, where strays are caught, fixed, and left on their own to fend for themselves. This is loving families struggling financially who wait in line for hours to get their pets fixed. This group is committed to sterilizing strays and long-term change, incorporating community education to teach younger generations about compassion and responsible pet ownership.
But your help is desperately needed to ensure these life-saving clinics continue!
Unfortunately, last year three clinics were cancelled due to a lack of funding, meaning hundreds of dogs could not be fixed.
If you'd like to donate to this amazing spay neuter project:
SOS el Arca Spay Neuter Campaign | GLOBAL UNITED FOUNDATION (Powered by Donorbox)https://donorbox.org/globalunited
SOS El Arcahttps://soselarca.org/
Learn More about Mindy and her incredible work:
Mindy's website:https://dogsimeet.com/
About her trip to Mexico with some the pics she references during our conversation:https://dogsimeet.com/rescue-missions/it-takes-a-village-to-save-a-dog
Mindy's Instagram with more pics taken in Carmen del Playa:https://www.instagram.com/dogsimeet/
Mindy's previous episodes on "Why Do Pets Matter?"
Episode 174 - Tales of Support
https://whydopetsmatter.podbean.com/e/mindy-dutka-tales-of-support/
Episode 161 - Introducing Mindy Dutka from "Dogs I Meet"
https://whydopetsmatter.podbean.com/e/mindy-dutka/
COLLAGE OF PICS FROM SOS EL ARCA
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Today we're speaking with Lynn White and Stacey Baum of the Feline Fix - a non-profit organization in Denver, CO. On June 28th, they are holding a free event -- The Friends of the Fix Breakfast -- at The Curtis Ballroom in Greenwood Village. The Feline Fix is an incredible group that works year-round to spay, neuter, and even rehome community cats that can be gentled and adopted.
The breakfast is a free, one-hour fundraising event with the goal of inspiring those who would like to get involved as a donor, foster, and/or volunteer.
There will be a full, sit-down breakfast, and the 'Kitten Therapy' team will be there to share those amazing babies with everyone. Seriously, who wouldn't want to start their day cuddling a sweet little kitten?
EVENT INFO: June 28th Free Event Friends of The Fix Breakfast7:30-8:30amThe Curtis Ballroom5345 Landmark Place(nextdoor to Comedy Works South)Greenwood Village
RSVP @ https://www.thefelinefix.org/
Can't attend, but want to Support The Feline Fix:
https://thefelinefix.networkforgood.com/projects/141855-support-our-work
The Feline Fix is a nonprofit entity that requires community support and partnership. They believe in education as a way to help end animal suffering.
The organization has made a significant, tangible impact on the feline and human lives in Denver and the greater surrounding areas -- approaching 50,000 feline spay/neuter surgeries over the last 20 years.
More About Lynn and Stacey:Lynn White has a background in accounting and finance as well as experience in the veterinary industry and the nonprofit sector. She received her BS/MS in Accounting with a specialization in Audit, and held a variety of positions in public, private, and corporate accounting and finance.
A life-long animal lover, Lynn went back to school to obtain her Associate degree in Veterinary Technology and worked in a clinic capacity as a Certified Veterinary Technician for a number of years.
Wanting to find a position that would combine her passion for animals with her finance experience, she took a job as Director of Finance for a non-profit veterinary hospital.
The combination of non-profit animal welfare finance has been the perfect fit for her skills and her career goal to help make the world a better place.
Stacey Baum originally began working for The Feline Fix in 2017. At the time, she served as the Development, Marketing & Events Director in charge of fundraising, the Stray Cat Strut, and rebranding the organization.
Although she left in 2019 to spend more time with her family, she missed the organization and is very excited to be back!
Stacey has been in the animal welfare arena for over 20 years, working in Colorado, Arizona and California. She has been fundraising, handling marketing and communications, and executing events since 2000.
Connect With Lynn, Stacey and The Feline Fix:https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynn-white-b75070130/https://www.facebook.com/felinefix/https://www.instagram.com/thefelinefix/
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As a veterinarian and mentor, Dr. Dani Rabwin believes that pets matter not only for their companionship and unconditional love but also because they serve as a bridge between her and her clients. Through their pets, she can establish a deeper connection with pet owners, fostering trust and building relationships that enable her to provide excellent veterinary care. Furthermore, she offers guidance and support to pet owners, assisting them in navigating the challenges and joys of pet ownership.
By emphasizing the significance of this connection with pet owners, Dr. Rabwin teaches new veterinarians in her mentorship program how to excel in their work by cultivating relationships with both pets and their owners.
During our conversation, we discussed the importance of communication between veterinarians and their clients, particularly pet owners.
We also discuss the value of mentorship for recent veterinary graduates and the importance of being open to learning and receiving guidance as both a veterinarian and a client.
Additionally, we explore the support programs available to veterinarians, which aim to prevent burnout.
We also touch upon Dani's mentorship program, Ready Vet Go, and how it assists veterinarians in thriving and finding joy in their profession.
More About Dr. Rabwin:Dr. Dani Rabwin is a veterinarian, communication coach, and the founder of Ready, Vet, Go, the first veterinary mentorship program of its kind. She graduated from UC Davis in 2004 and completed an internship at Michigan Veterinary Specialists. She feels extremely privileged to be able to help veterinarians thrive in this profession she loves so much.
Connect with Dani:https://readyvetgo.co/https://www.instagram.com/readyvetgo_/https://www.linkedin.com/in/dani-rabwin-18034b217/ R -
During this dynamic conversation with the Honorable Douglas C. Mintz (Ret.) and Gabrielle Hartley, Esq., we'll look at a different perspective on deciding who gets the family pet during a divorce.
Doug is the ADR Partner at Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey, based in Stamford, CT. He was a civil trial judge and also a legislator.
Gabrielle is an incredible TEDx speaker. She is also an author. Her new book, "The Secret To Getting Along," is coming out in May. She also wrote, "Better Apart."
She has created the "Better Apart Total Practice Makeover" to help attornies do better divorce work. And her "Private Divorce Solutions" helps people decide how to divorce better -- including those with pets.
Given all of the new legislation that's coming down in California, Alaska, Illinois, New Hampshire, and New York, requiring the judges to find for the best interests of the pet when doing divorce resolution, Judge Mintz and Gabrielle take on that topic during our conversation and handle it in a safe and special way.
More About the Hon. Douglas C. Mintz (Ret.)Doug has acted as the mediator in numerous disputes ranging from complex business disputes to product liability. The disputes have included personal injury matters that resulted from motor vehicle accidents and slip and falls. One nine-hour mediation, conducted over Zoom, included 32 participants two of whom were self-represented. Due to all the participants’ patience and perseverance, the dispute came to a successful resolution.
Doug has developed and adapted his mediation practice in the age of COVID-19 and found that online dispute resolution is as effective, if not more effective, than in-person mediations.
Doug is a member of the National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals and became a Panelist, as an Arbitrator and a Mediator, for the American Arbitration Association.
For most of his judicial career, Doug served as the Presiding Judge for Civil Matters in Stamford and Danbury, CT. He regularly encountered truly vexing conflicts in both the legal and emotional dimensions, and developed a unique approach to working those situations that he now brings to his clients.
Doug was appointed to the Superior Court in 1993 and served as the Civil Presiding Judge and the Assistant Administrative Judge for the Judicial District of Stamford/Norwalk, and as the Administrative Judge and the Civil Presiding Judge for the Judicial District of Danbury. Prior to his service on the bench, he was a State Representative from Norwalk (1987-1992) and served as the Vice-chair of the Judiciary Committee for most of that time.
As a Judge, in 2008, Doug worked collaboratively with the Legislature to craft legislation that created the Foreclosure Mediation Program (the first statewide mediation program in the nation). This Mediation Program was created in response to the mortgage foreclosure crisis of 2007-08 and helped thousands of families retain their homes.
From his many years on the Bench, Doug has learnt that deep dedication to the values of human dignity and creative thinking, combined with the rigorous and fair application of factual analysis, almost always clears the way for successful dispute resolution.
Doug speaks at legal community virtual events on various topics, including online dispute resolution.
Western New England College School of Law, J.D., 1978The University of Michigan, B.G.S., 1974
More About Gabrielle Hartley:Gabrielle Hartley is co-chair of the American Bar Association Mediation Committee, a nationally recognized divorce attorney, online mediator, TEDx Speaker, and author of "Better Apart: The Radically Positive Way to Separate."
Her new book “The Secret to Getting Along and Why It’s Easier Than You Think” will be released this May. She offers a weekly newsletter, The Conflict Code” and hosts The Better Apart Blog and is a frequently quoted media expert in the peaceful divorce realm (The New York Times, Vice, WNYC, Forbes, Psychology Today, etc.)
Gabrielle is a former court attorney to NYS Supreme Court Judge Jeffrey Sunshine and has resolved hundreds of high-conflict divorce cases.
About Her New Book: The Secret to Getting Along and Why It’s Easier Than You ThinkNamed as a Next Big Idea Club Must Read!
Is it possible to get along better? Yes, with 3 simple steps for conflict resolution!
Conflict is everywhere―in our homes, at work, on our social media feeds. But conflict isn't inherently bad… in fact, it's a normal and healthy part of human relationships, but many of us aren't good at managing conflict in our everyday lives.
In The Secret to Getting Along (And Why it's Easier Than You Think!), attorney Gabrielle Hartley brings more than two decades of divorce mediation experience to helping you learn how to resolve conflict in ways that strengthen your relationships, reflect your values, and lead to positive outcomes for everyone involved. This practical and accessible guide to everyday conflict resolution will help you:
Reframe your approach to conflictFind your way to more harmony and less discordCreate better outcomes even in your most difficult relationshipsExperience more peace even when relationships don't go wellStrengthen your skills in resolving conflicts of all shapes and sizesFeel more connected to the important people in your lifeWhether you're fighting with your partner about housework, struggling to set boundaries with a difficult family member, or dealing with a toxic coworker, The Secret to Getting Along (And Why It's Easier Than You Think!) is a necessary resource for navigating difficult conversations and situations―and finding the solutions that will help you create a peaceful, less stressful, and more fulfilling life.
More Info:Gabrielle's Website:
https://gabriellehartley.com/thesecrettogettingalong/
On Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Secret-Getting-Along-Easier-Think/dp/172825891X
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Dr. Jessica May from the UK joins us on this episode of "Why Do Pets Matter?" to talk about Veterinary Telemedicine: the pros and cons of the new telemed guidelines set by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and the important opportunities telemedicine opens up for veterinarians to provide their clients with dynamic professional care wherever a patient might be.
We also talked about how technology can help create better veterinarian-client relationships.
More About Dr. Jessica May, MRCVSJessica has worked in mixed and equine practices, both in the United Kingdom and in Hong Kong.
Between 2019 and 2022, Jessica joined an independent telehealth company to launch their pioneering service in the UK before joining PetsApp in 2023.
Jessica has a strong interest in innovation and how digital health can benefit pets, veterinary professionals, and businesses.
Jessica qualified as a vet from the Royal Veterinary College in 2012.
Connect with Jessica:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicamay2/
https://petsapp.com/
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I'm excited to have Attorney Jennifer Amundsen join us on this episode of "Why Do Pets Matter?". Jennifer is an expert in contract law and is here to discuss a topic that's important for all breeders, co-owners, and owners: breeder contracts. She also breeds and shows Clumber Spaniels.
If you're a breeder, you know that a well-drafted breeder contract can help protect your interests and ensure your puppies go to good homes. If you're a co-owner or buyer, you need to understand exactly what your breeder's contract requires of you.
Jennifer will be sharing her insights on what should be included in these contracts.
And that's not all! Jennifer will also give us tips on communicating with new owners. As a breeder, you want to ensure your puppies go to a loving and responsible home. Jennifer will be sharing her advice on how to have these important conversations with new owners in an educational and approachable way.
We'll also be discussing how new owners should speak with their breeders and what to do if things don't go as planned.
So, if you're a breeder, in a co-ownership contract with a breeder, or considering purchasing an animal from a breeder, you won't want to miss this episode. Let's dive in!
More About Jennifer Amundsen, Esq.Jennifer has nearly 20 years of experience in the legal and intellectual property industries and nearly 13 years of experience as a lawyer. She represents information technology businesses, authors, independent film and video production companies, theater companies, software developers and other brand and creative content owners, with an emphasis on the implications of emerging technologies, the Internet and social media.
She helps clients to identify, protect and leverage their intellectual property assets, such as trademarks and copyrights, and to avoid conflicts with third-party intellectual property assets. She also counsels clients regarding day-to-day business and legal matters, including a variety of contract matters.
Jennifer has also developed a niche in the areas of canine and equine law, where she advises owners and breeders of companion animals (primarily dogs) and horses on issues pertaining to their hobbies and businesses.
She has represented dog clubs and equine groups and is a frequent speaker on legal topics pertaining to animal ownership.
Jennifer graduated in 2003 from the University of Wisconsin Law School.
She is a State Bar of Wisconsin and Wisconsin Women Entrepreneurs SouthCentral, Inc member.
She is also a member of Badger Kennel Club (past Director), the Clumber Spaniel Club of America (past Secretary), and the Fox River Field Spaniel Club. She is a founding director and current President of the Board of Directors of the Clumber Spaniel Health Foundation, Inc. and also serves on the board of the Friends of Madison Mounted Horse Patrol.
She enjoys spending time with her husband, training and showing their dogs, and riding her horse.
Connect with Jennifer:https://amundsenlaw.com/about-us.htmlhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferlamundsenhttps://twitter.com/jlamundsenhttps://www.facebook.com/pages/Amundsen-Law-Firm-LLC/500920289945750
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Iris Grimm is a leadership coach and trainer for humans and dogs alike. During today's conversation, we talk about how dogs can help us become better leaders. Iris believes dogs can be our greatest teachers when we listen to them. She speaks from experience. For 22 years, Iris has trained not only her own seven dogs but also fostered and trained many others.
Mentioned During The Show:Iris' TEDx Alexander Park Talkhttps://youtu.be/5FTh_d9z5jM
Dog-Gone Leadershiphttps://irisgrimm.com/services/dgl/
More About IrisAs a business owner in the leadership development space, Iris makes it her mission to raise awareness of the impact that dogs can have on us. She encourages dog adoptions to improve an individual’s life and leadership performance. When she isn’t working, you will find Iris hiking with her dogs in the North Georgia mountains.
Her Dog-Gone Leadership program is a practical and novel professional development program where she draws parallels between dog leadership and human leadership. This program is ideal for dog-friendly workplaces, animal advocacy groups, and organizations that appreciate transforming leadership with, from, and for dogs.
Connect with IrisWebsite: https://irisgrimm.com/Phone: 404-441-5370
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Today we're speaking with Elizabeth Stutz. She's an attorney colleague of mine in Virginia. We've had several discussions about microchips, their benefits, and drawbacks. Microchips are only as good as the information that's on them and the scanning that's done. We're also talking about some of the vagaries of whether or not everyone scans for them.
Pets are important to Elizabeth because having a pet can help us expand our understanding of selflessness, unconditional love, partnership, compassion, passion, joy & empathy. Pets remind us that we are not alone and that the world is greater than ourselves.
When it comes to microchipping your pets, Elizabeth believes that:
The pet parent is responsible for protecting the pet with proper licensure & identification. The pet parent's responsibility to update microchip information in the event of a move or transfer of ownership & failure to comply makes microchip IDs only part of the "puzzle" & not the definitive answer -- meaning veterinary professionals should not solely rely upon the microchip. Communication and cooperation between government animal control and private shelters and welfare organizations is essential to ensure lost pets are returned to their pet parent(s).Mentioned During The Show:American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)https://www.aaha.org/your-pet/pet-microchip-lookup/microchip-search/
More About Elizabeth Stutts:The law practice of Elizabeth (EB) Butterworth Stutts focuses on veterinary healthcare, including licensure, televet services and the development, approval and regulation by FDA of veterinary medicines, supplements and medical devices.
A lifelong pet owner and horseman, she lives in Maidens, VA on a horse boarding farm, where she has bred, raised, rescued, trained and competed her own horses and provided "lay-up" care for injured horses, under veterinary supervision.
In addition to having 2 teenage boys and a fiancé, she is currently the "pet parent" of 2 dogs, a cat, a donkey, 5 horses and 2 chickens, and these numbers are always subject to additions!
She is passionate about helping veterinarians and others in the animal industry avoid future problems by having appropriately drafted contracts and documents from the outset. "Money spent drafting solid documents will always be a fraction of that spent litigating a poorly drafted contract."
Connect with Elizabeth:Website: www.elizabethbutterworthstuttsesq.comEmail: [email protected]: http://linkedin.com/in/elizabethbstutts
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Dogs are a great source of comfort and guidance to people struggling. Dr. Renee Alsarraf joins us to discuss her new book "Sit, Stay, Heal: What Dogs Can Teach Us About Living Well." The book teaches us about the enormous power the human-animal bond plays in our world.
Each chapter is about a different patient of Dr. Alsarraf's, each with his or her own life lessons to impart. In the book, Dr. Alsarraf shares what those families and she learned from dogs. The book is a front-row seat to what life is like as a veterinarian, and to the struggles many of us face and how we survive and come out stronger.
Mentioned During The Show:Book: Sit, Stay, Heal: What Dogs Can Teach Us About Living Wellhttps://www.amazon.com/Sit-Stay-Heal-Teach-Living/dp/0063215225/
More About Dr. Alsarraf:Dr. Renee Alsarraf received her veterinary medical degree in 1991 from Michigan State University. While there, she established the University’s Pet Loss Support Group. Dr. Alsarraf completed a rotating internship and medical oncology residency at the Animal Medical Center in New York City. She worked at Memorial Sloan Kettering in a tissue culture lab.
Dr. Alsarraf has performed numerous veterinary clinical trials, co-authored peer-reviewed journal articles, and has lectured locally and nationally.
Dr. Alsarraf has created 4 different veterinary oncology practices as well as created and led 3 veterinary radiation facilities.
Currently, Dr. Alsarraf works as a consultant for a national veterinary radiation therapy company and does medical oncology consults.
She enjoys giving back to the community by lecturing to schools grades K-8, is a mentor to Michigan State University Veterinary School students, structured and offered internships for high school, college, and veterinary students, created a literacy program for a Newark elementary public school, is on the Cooperman’s Scholars Committee reviewing applications for underprivileged high school students to receive scholarships and support, headed a local community outreach for years for the underprivileged (tutoring, food drives, coat drives, book drives, blood drives), was on the executive committee for a local Boy Scouts of America chapter and was an active Merit Badge counselor and presently is on the University of Rochester Parents’ Outreach Committee.
Dr. Alsarraf used to compete in obedience trials with her boxers. In her free time, she enjoys hunting for antiques, cooking, gardening, and listening to her son play the piano in her free time.
Connect with Dr. Alsarraf:Website: https://www.sitstayhealbook.com/Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Sit-Stay-Heal-Teach-Living/dp/0063215225/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reneealsarraf/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-alsarraf-8a939231/
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Domestic violence can be an incredibly difficult and isolating experience, and it can be even harder for pet owners who may be afraid to leave their beloved pets behind. Did you know that there are resources available to help keep both pets and their owners safe?
During this segment of "Why Do Pets Matter?", my dear friend Elizabeth Cronin, Director of the New York State Office of Victim Services, will be discussing some of the organizations and programs that provide support and resources for pet owners in domestic violence situations.
Resources Mentioned During The ShowUrban Resource Institutehttps://urinyc.org/
PALS Program (People and Animals Living Safely)https://urinyc.org/uripals/
WILLOW Domestic Violence Centerhttps://willowcenterny.org/
More About ElizabethElizabeth Cronin is Director of the New York State Office of Victim Services. She was appointed in 2013 by Governor Andrew M. Cuomo.
Previously, she was the Director of the Office of Legal Affairs for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. In that capacity, she was responsible for the operation of the Staff Attorney’s Office and Office of Staff Counsel (Circuit Mediation) and overseeing all of the legal work produced by the Office.
In addition, Elizabeth is a published author and frequent public speaker on legal and administrative topics, including prosecuting domestic violence cases, immigration law, and evidence, among others. She served on a number of advisory groups, including for the Administrative Office for the U.S. Courts. She is a past president of the National Association of Appellate Court Attorneys.
She also was an adjunct professor in the Criminal Justice and Sociology Department at Pace University and taught classes to graduate and undergraduate students in the subjects of domestic violence, criminal justice, criminal law, and law enforcement ethics. She also holds two certifications in coaching.
Connect with Elizabethhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-cronin-b1b505a/
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Dawn Secord is our special guest today. She's an award-winning author, artist, and illustrator whose love for animals shines through in everything she does.
Dawn is passionate about sharing her love of animals with children. And through her educational children's book series, she's bringing back the old-time values of reading actual books and spending quality family time together.
Why do pets matter to Dawn? In her own words: "Pets matter on so many levels. They are companions, comforters, protectors, and our family members. My husband loves to say that our pets are a window into what heaven will be - unconditional love.
My pets as companions allow me always to feel not alone. Even when surrounded by other people, we can still be alone. When I'm sad or happy, my pets react to my emotions. They celebrate with joy when I am happy, and if I'm unhappy, they become my comforters. It is amazing how much pets comfort us when we need it most.
They protect us. Dogs bark and are considered by many sources to be a great crime deterrent. I have a cat that growls when she sees someone approaching the front door. Years ago, I read of a macaw (parrot) that attacked an intruder and saved its owner.
Pets are my family members. With all they do for me, how could they be any less than a family member? Their love for me is unconditional, and my love for them is just as strong."
I can't wait for you to hear all about Dawn's amazing new children's book -- "No Ghoulish Green Monsters Here."
Get The BookAmazon
No Ghoulish Green Monsters Here:https://www.amazon.com/No-Ghoulish-Green-Monsters-Here/dp/1734003901/
Bling's Website
https://www.adogbling.com/awards-reviews
About Dawn SecordDawn is a professional author, artist, and illustrator. She has won numerous art competitions, juried into museum and international exhibitions, and been featured in numerous magazine articles and magazine covers. She had a pet-sitting business for 22 years and was named Pet Sitter of the Year by Pet Sitters International. She is currently working on the next book in her children's picture book series - A Dog Bling.
Connect with Dawn and Blinghttps://www.facebook.com/adogbling/https://www.facebook.com/dawnsecordarthttps://www.adogbling.blogspot.com
https://www.artofthedog.blogspot.comhttps://twitter.com/DawnSecordhttps://www.instagram.com/dawn_secordhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-secord-250108b3
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Becky Shuttle worth is a canine communicator. She takes those really hard-to-place dogs and helps them live a better life by either staying with her or fostering them until they are ready to be rehomed. She also works one on one with dog owners who are having aggression or anxiety issues with their pets.
In this podcast, she shares some great insights into understanding and managing the things that trigger a dog's "naughty" behavior. She discusses her holistic approach to getting to the root cause of the issue and how to support an animal through it.
More About Becky:Becky Shuttleworth communicates with dogs. She left a career in 'behavior" and moved into animal communication, where she now helps dog owners understand what their dogs really want and need. She provides the link for better communication between dogs and humans.
Connect with Becky:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/becky.shuttleworth.52
Email: [email protected]
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