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

The Weight They Carry: Mental Health, Vet Med, and the Human–Animal Bond with Grace Galletti

Listen to this episode of Why Do Pets Matter with filmmaker Grace Galletti, creator of the documentary The Weight They Carry. We talk candidly about the mental health challenges facing veterinarians and their teams, the myths that fuel misunderstanding, and how pet parents and practices can support each other with more empathy, transparency, and care.

Grace shares why she set out to tell this story, what she learned while filming inside busy clinics, and how we can open healthier conversations around grief, burnout, and the human–animal bond. If you work in vet med or love someone who does, this one matters.

 

Guest Links:

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

https://www.gracegalletti.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

Why Pets Make Us More Human: A Conversation on Animal-Assisted Therapy with Dr. Aubrey Fine

Listen to this episode of Why Do Pets Matter for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Aubrey Fine, Professor Emeritus at California State Polytechnic University and an internationally recognized pioneer in animal-assisted therapy. Dr. Fine takes us on his journey from growing up in a pet-free home to becoming one of the foremost advocates for the human-animal bond, a path that began with an unexpected friendship with a gerbil named Sasha.

 

In this heartfelt discussion, Dr. Fine shares the therapeutic benefits of animals for children with learning disabilities, autism, and ADHD, while emphasizing why animal welfare must always come first in therapy settings. He reflects on more than four decades of groundbreaking work, his deep relationships with animals from therapy dogs to his horse’s foal “Fine-tastic,” and the profound lessons animals teach us about empathy, resilience, and responsibility.

 

Dr. Fine’s contributions to the field are immense. He served 42 years as a professor at Cal Poly, is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in children with ADHD, learning disabilities, and developmental disorders, and has been recognized with the William F. McCulloch Award for Excellence in Human-Animal Interaction Education and Practice as well as the CSU Wang Award for Distinguished Professor. His publications include Handbook on Animal-Assisted Therapy (6th Edition, 2024), Afternoons with Puppy: Inspirations from a Therapist and His Animals, and Our Faithful Companions: Exploring the Essence of Our Kinship with Animals.

Watch It: https://youtu.be/UzkTmHJO6S8

 

Guest Links:

Dr. Fine's website: www.aubreyhfine.com

Cal Poly faculty profile: www.cpp.edu/faculty/ahfine/

Clinical practice: www.aubreyhfine.com (Claremont, CA)

 

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

Pets as Family: Love, Loss, and the Laws Catching Up With Maribeth Decker

This week on Why Do Pets Matter, I’m joined once again by the incredible Maribeth Decker for a conversation straight from the heart. We’re talking about a groundbreaking legal case that recognizes pets as immediate family, why our animals inspire us to be the people they think we are, and how to navigate the toughest moments with love and compassion.

From celebrating the bonds we share to making difficult end-of-life decisions, this episode is a reminder that pets are never “just property”, they are family.

Watch Now: https://youtu.be/eNiw8VU--fA

 

Guest Links:

https://sacredgrove.com/

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

 

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

From Litigation to Collaboration: Transforming Animal Law Through Empathy

In this episode of Why Do Pets Matter, I talk with industrial organizational psychologist Taeler Hammond about the growing connection between animal law, veterinary conflict, and the human-animal bond.

We explore why treating pets as property in court often falls short, and how empathy and communication can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved. Taeler shares personal stories that show how small moments can turn into big conflicts—or real solutions—depending on how we respond.

We also talk about de-escalation techniques, the role of social media in disputes, and why including clients in the problem-solving process builds trust.

If you work with animals or care about the people who do, this conversation is full of helpful tools and perspective.

Watch Now: https://youtu.be/Qs1CqBQzy7Y

 

Guest Links:

Website: https://www.deiprofinder.com/california/los-angeles/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-consultant/nouveau-paige-consulting

Instagram: @nouveau_paige_consulting

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taelerhammond/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWC4p9h06_s

 

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

Revolutionary Pet Care with Dr. Jeff Grognet

Join us for a groundbreaking conversation with Dr. Jeff Grognet, a veterinarian who's challenging the status quo of modern pet care. In this episode, Dr. Grognet shares his journey from conventional practice to holistic veterinary medicine, offering eye-opening insights that could transform how you think about your pet's health.

Dr. Grognet's mission extends beyond individual pet care—he's working to educate both veterinarians and pet owners about the benefits of individualized, holistic approaches that consider each animal's unique needs and circumstances.

 

Whether you're questioning standard veterinary protocols or simply want to explore additional options for your pet's wellbeing, this conversation offers valuable perspectives that could reshape your approach to pet care. Tune in to discover how thinking beyond basic animal welfare can lead to healthier, happier pets and more informed pet care decisions.

 

Guest Links:

drjeff@earthvet.com

www.newearthvet.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jeff-grognet-b3802595/?originalSubdomain=ca

 

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 Mentally Healthy Veterinary Workplaces With Terri Stockdreher, LCSW, MPH

On this episode of Why Do Pets Matter, I’m joined by the insightful Terri Stockdreher, LCSW, MPH — a trauma-informed therapist and fellow NAMV Blueprint advisor — for a powerful conversation about mental health in the veterinary field.

Terri specializes in helping high-achieving veterinary and healthcare professionals who are burned out, emotionally exhausted, and struggling to keep up the appearance that everything is “fine.” Together, we discuss the deep emotional connections we have with animals, why communication in clinics can break down, and how unresolved trauma can surface in moments of stress — both for clients and veterinary teams.

We also dive into practical strategies for conflict resolution, boundaries, and creating workplaces that are emotionally supportive from top to bottom. Whether you're a veterinarian, veterinary technician, practice manager, or client, this conversation will leave you thinking about how empathy, preparation, and breathing (yes, breathing!) can shift the dynamic for everyone involved.

🎧 Tune in, reflect, and let us know what you think: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgDUZgYW9uk

#WhyDoPetsMatter #VeterinaryMentalHealth #NAMV #VetMed #ClearBlueprint #WorkplaceWellness #TraumaInformedCare

 

Guest Links:

https://bravelivingcenter.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/terri-stockdreher/

 

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

A Landmark Pet Custody Case! How Jeremy Cohen & Brett Lyman Changed Animal Law Forever

On this episode of Why Do Pets Matter?, I had the honor of speaking with Jeremy Cohen, founder of Boston Dog Lawyers, and his client Brett Lyman, who together made legal history in Massachusetts with the landmark case Lyman v. Lancer.

Jeremy and Brett share their journey navigating the complexities of a groundbreaking case that ultimately led to Massachusetts recognizing shared custody agreements for pets. We discussed the thoughtful and patient approach they took, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the pet's best interests over the human desire to "win."

Join us as we explore the intersection of compassion, law, and the transformative power of pets in our lives. This conversation beautifully illustrates why pets truly matter.

Watch: https://youtu.be/9f5z3ka6es8

 

Guest Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-cohen-68b037a/

https://www.bostondoglawyers.com/jeremy-cohen

 

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

Mentors, Medicine, and the Magic of Meeting People With Dr. Kate Boatright

I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Kate Boatright on this week’s episode of Why Do Pets Matter — and let me tell you, what a powerful conversation! 💙

Kate is an incredible advocate for mentorship and the importance of spectrum of care in veterinary medicine. She shares so beautifully about the lessons she’s learned (the wins and the wobbles!), and how she’s created a much-needed space to support both new grads and the mentors guiding them.

We also talked about the deep, emotional ways pets have shaped our lives — including the dog that helped her mom through breast cancer and my own story about a pup who carried a family through a scary diagnosis. These are the reasons pets matter. 💫

If you're in vet med, this episode will speak to your heart. And if you’re a pet parent, it’ll give you a whole new appreciation for the people who care for your animals.

🎧 Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts

📺 Or watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Rv7BQ6xVck

Let me know what part of Kate’s story resonated most with you!

 

Guest Links:

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

https://writetheboat.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 

Finding the Third Way: Conflict, Compassion, and Why Pets Matter with Amanda Ripley

I’m beyond thrilled to welcome my friend Amanda Ripley to the Why Do Pets Matter podcast!

Amanda is a brilliant journalist and the author of one of my all-time favorite books, High Conflict. In this episode, we talk all about what happens when we stop digging in our heels and start leaning into connection—yes, even in the middle of a disagreement (or two).

 

Amanda and I dive into how good conflict—the kind that challenges and stretches us without tearing us apart—can show up in all areas of life, from Capitol Hill to our own backyards. And you know I had to bring it back to pets! We talk about how animals can become both the heart of a dispute and the key to healing, and why conversations about pets often open the door to deeper understanding.

 

You’ll also hear Amanda share how a former gang leader inspired her to think differently about political violence (and dog sharing, believe it or not!), and we reflect on what it means to regulate our emotions, listen actively, and choose curiosity over conflict.

Listen and Download:

Watch the video version: https://youtu.be/gl3YVlWpQ5E

 

Guest Links:

https://www.thegoodconflict.com/

https://www.amandaripley.com/high-conflict

 

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

When Life Changes, So Do Our Pets – A Heartfelt Conversation with Maribeth Decker

In this episode of Why Do Pets Matter, I had the absolute pleasure of welcoming back my dear friend, Maribeth Decker of Sacred Grove. Maribeth is an incredible animal communicator, and we dove into a topic that’s so important yet often overlooked—how our life changes affect our pets.

Whether you’re going through an illness, a job loss, a big move, or even just dealing with the everyday stress of the world—we talk about how those shifts in your energy can deeply impact the animals we love. Maribeth shares beautiful, practical advice on how to support your pet emotionally through life’s curveballs, how to recognize behavior changes that might be tied to your own stress, and why loving, intentional connection is everything.

Video: https://youtu.be/pXad2SB4-y8

 

Guest Links:

https://sacredgrove.com/

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

 

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