Coping With Stress During COVID-19: Resources For Animal Care + Welfare Workers
The following resources are intended to support anyone working in animal sheltering, veterinary medicine, and behavior or pet care services as we navigate the uncertainty and instability of life in the age of COVID-19.
But just between you and me, these resources are helpful for managing stress and trauma exposure during a typical day at work. Because let's face it: if you're a helping professional or caregiver, you were stressed out BEFORE the stores ran out of toilet paper.
You keep helping animals, I'm here to help you. Sound good? Your first stop is the recording of The Compassion in Balance Community Call. Watch that below:
On March 19th, 2020 hundreds of animal care and welfare folks gathered for a call to connect, learn, and share their wisdom with one another. Watch the 80 minute webinar and you’ll learn:
- How the stress response is impacting our bodies and brains
- How to self-regulate using grounding practices
- Why and how we need to prep for sleep
- Thoughts that help protect us against stress
- What leaders can do to support staff
- A hand washing practice that will help you feel connected and compassionate
- Plus, tons of ideas and tips from the community in the chat (download the chat transcript above to see how amazing you all are!).
Want to Keep Learning?
Register for my On-Demand webinar course Practicing Compassionate Badassery: How to Cope with COVID-19! This webinar series will help you to feel more calm and courageous during this challenging time.
RESOURCES
Get Bigger by Miki DiVivo (opening poem)
Self Regulation Toolbox PDF from Jessica with detailed instructions for many of the practices listed in webinar
5 Things You Can Do Right Now to Reduce COVID-19 Stress PDF from Jessica
Self-Care Tips PDF from Jessica and HeARTs Speak
Journaling Tips PDF from Jessica and HeARTs Speak
Sukie Baxter – excellent resource for shoulder, neck, and back stretches
Jane Clapp: Embodied Resilience – excellent resource for self and co-regulation practices
Yoga with Adrienne demonstrates Legs up the Wall
HeARTs Speak’s amazing COVID-19 Communication and Marketing Resource Guide for Shelters
‘Rona Mood Booster Spotify Playlist – to help get you moving and smiling
60 Beats Per Minute Spotify Playlist – to help your brain and body calm down
Reactive Dog Games – group enrichment at a distance (good for those still working in shelters who want to play as a stress reliever!)
Share with your friends and check back for more!
Hiya! I'm Jessica!
You’re helping animals. I’m here to help you.
I’m Jessica Dolce and I help dog trainers, shelter workers, veterinarians, and other animal care folks like you to make an impact, while also having the time and energy to take care of your own needs and enjoy your life!
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck when it comes to compassion fatigue resources or that whole “work/life balance” thing, I’ve got your back.
I do this through one-on-one coaching, online classes, and my signature year-long training for animal welfare organizations called The Compassion in Balance Program.
Looking for 1-on-1 Support?
Individual coaching offers the support and structure you need to create a life that feels just right. Schedule a free 20 minute call with Jessica to learn more about the Compassionate Badassery Coaching Sessions!
Does Your Organization Need Compassion Fatigue Education?
Are you in a leadership role? Are you ready to invest in resilience-building at the individual, team and organizational levels? I can help! Schedule a free 30 minute strategy call to discuss your best next steps and to learn more about The Compassion in Balance Program.
Let's stay connected. Sign up for ideas, updates, and your free copy of The ABCs of Self Care Workbook!
