Why Do Pets Matter? Hosted by Debra Hamilton, Esq.

Fostering Positive Veterinary Culture with Josh Vaisman

In this episode of Why Do Pets Matter?, I'm excited to chat with my good friend, Josh Vaisman, Co-Founder of Flourish Veterinary Consulting and author of "Lead to Thrive: The Science of Crafting a Positive Veterinary Culture."

Josh shares his journey from veterinary practice to starting his own consulting firm, focusing on translating social science research into practical strategies for workplace well-being. We delve into the deep connection between humans and pets, the importance of fostering positive work environments, and how effective leadership can transform veterinary care.

Josh also discusses his new venture into conflict management and positive communication practices. Join us as we explore the significance of pets in our lives and how we can create thriving, compassionate veterinary practices.

 

Guest Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-vaisman-mappcp-pgd-8371877/

https://www.flourish.vet/

https://www.aaha.org/

 

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_1

SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

Creating Safe and Harmonious Homes for Babies and Dogs With Jen Shryock

This week on Why Do Pets Matter?, we welcome Jen Shryock, the founder of Family Paws Parent Education!

Jen specializes in guiding families through the process of integrating dogs and new babies into a cohesive household. With her background in special education, Jen shares essential tips on preparing your dog for a new family member, understanding canine behavior, and ensuring the safety and comfort of both pets and children.

Tune in as we discuss Jen’s thoughtful approach and practical advice for creating a loving and secure environment for the entire family.

 

Guest Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jshryock/

https://www.familypaws.com/

 

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_1
SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

Exploring the Emotional Bonds, Challenges, and Triumphs in Veterinary Care with Kelly Baltzell

In this episode, I welcome Kelly Baltzell, CEO of Beyond Indigo Pets, for an in-depth conversation on the critical role pets play in our lives and the challenges and triumphs in the veterinary industry.

We discuss the emotional toll of euthanasia on both veterinarians and pet owners, the importance of transparent communication, and how marketing can enhance veterinary practices.

Kelly also shares insights from her podcast, Unfiltered Vet Discussions, emphasizing the need for honest, holistic conversations in the veterinary field. Tune in to explore how meaningful dialogue can strengthen the human-animal bond and improve the veterinary care experience for all.

 

Guest Links:

https://www.beyondindigopets.com/

https://www.unfilteredvetdiscussions.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellybaltzell/

 

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_1
SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

Bridging the Divide: The Lifesaving Power of Human-Animal Bonds with Janet Hoy-Gerlach

I had the pleasure of speaking with Janet Hoy-Gerlach, the visionary behind One Health People-Animal Wellness.

As a former tenured professor at the University of Toledo and now an adjunct faculty member at Case Western Reserve University, Janet brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion.

We delved into the profound significance of human-animal relationships in mental health and social work, uncovering how animals can serve as crucial lifelines for individuals contemplating suicide.

Drawing from her experiences, Janet passionately advocates for policies and practices that prioritize the well-being of both people and their beloved pets.

Through initiatives like Open Door Veterinary Collective, she works tirelessly to reduce barriers to veterinary care and ensure access to essential resources for both humans and animals.

 

Guest Links:

pethelpfinder.org

https://opendoorconsults.org/social-work-hub/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emotionalsupportanimal/

Her Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Janet-Hoy-Gerlach/author/B07DHC525T?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

 

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_1
SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

Championing Animal Welfare with Debbie Dahmer

In this episode, I sat down with the fantastic Debbie Dahmer, the host of "Voices Carry For Animals", to delve into the profound significance of pets in our lives and the vital importance of responsible pet ownership.

Debbie shares her deep commitment to advocating for shelter animal adoption and emphasizes the ethical imperative of spaying and neutering. Drawing from personal experiences with her own beloved pets, she highlights the profound emotional connection between humans and animals and stresses the need for legislative action to protect their welfare.

Through heartfelt anecdotes and practical advice, I am inspired by Debbie's advocacy, encouraging listeners to join the cause and make a difference in the lives of animals everywhere.

 

Guest Links:

If you would like to listen to Debbie's show, you can do so here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-dahmer-794187120/

https://voicescarryforanimals.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-dahmer-794187120/

 

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_1
SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

 

Crafting Impactful Messages: Unveiling the Art of Persuasion with Colonel Carla Bass, USAF (Ret)

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: Carla@WriteToInfluence.net

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_1
SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

Empowering Hearts and Healing Minds: The Impact of Paws for People with Clarice Ritchie

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/

CRitchie@PAWSforPeople.org

 

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_1
SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

Kate Rosenthal - PAWS for People Annual WAG and Walkathon on ”Why Do Pets Matter?” hosted by Debra Hamilton EP 223

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.org
Walkathon Event Website - https://secure.frontstream.com/2023walkathon
FB: https://facebook.com/PAWSforPeople
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pawsforpeople/ 

Colonel Carla Bass, USAF (Ret) - Write To Influence on ”Why Do Pets Matter?” hosted by Debra Hamilton EP 222

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."

==========================

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:  Carla@WriteToInfluence.net

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/

Suzanne Cannon co-Founder of VetBilling - A Flexible, Creative System Helping People To Pay For Veterinary Bills In A More Holistic Way on ”Why Do Pets Matter” hosted by Debra Hamilton EP 220

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/