Compassion Fatigue in Animal Workers

If you've had to take care of someone you love during times of illness, you understand the overwhelming emotional and stress barriers you face on a daily basis.

The American Institute of Stress defines "compassion fatigue" as the emotional residue or strain of exposure to working with those suffering from consequences of traumatic events.

Compassion fatigue is also known as secondary-traumatic stress disorder, with symptoms relatable to someone with PTSD.

When you think of compassion fatigue, you might think of it only in terms of human care. But, it can occur when you take care of animals as well; it's just not talked about as often.

Why isn't anyone talking about the fatal epidemic in animal workers?

What can animal care workers and other helping professionals do to manage the impact of compassion fatigue in their lives?

Certified Compassion Fatigue Educator, Jessica Dolce, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss compassion fatigue and how it's just as common in animal workers.