"People outside the field are often surprised to learn how intense and relentless the attacks can be on those of us working in animal shelters and rescues. They can’t begin to imagine living through what we accept as just an unfortunate part of the job.
When they ask why this happens, the only explanation I can offer is that animal work brings out a lot of passion in many people. When channeled positively, that passion inspires miracles. When channeled negatively, it’s brutal and cuts straight to the heart.
For those on the receiving end, the impact is real. Nothing hurts more than devoting your life’s work to animals only to be told that you’re incompetent, or worse, you just don’t care. I’m no longer surprised when I hear of another peer leaving the field, or worse yet, leaving us permanently. Animal welfare workers are subject to many of the same stresses that cause veterinarians to have one of the highest suicide rates of any profession.
It's hard for people outside the sheltering and rescue field to truly understand the work that we do and the difficult decisions we face every day. But at least those of us working or volunteering in animal welfare should be able to agree that we’re in this battle for the animals together. Infighting only serves to make all our lives more difficult and consumes time and energy that could be spent helping animals."
By Susan Mercer
•
July 30, 2025
人が大好きで甘えん坊、元気いっぱいのイエローラブラドール・オレッラは本当の家族を探しています。お散歩も遊びも全力で楽しむ明るい性格の女の子。全国譲渡対応可。
Orella is a cheerful and affectionate yellow Labrador Retriever looking for her forever home in Japan. Full of energy and love, she enjoys walks, playtime, and human connection. Nationwide adoption available.