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The Resilient Animal

The Resilient Animal

By: Annie Petersen Ed.D.
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The Resilient Animal: Exploring Mental Health Through Helping Animals and Their People

The Resilient Animal podcast is hosted by Dr. Annie Petersen, an expert with a Doctorate in Education and a Master's in Mental Health Recovery and Trauma-informed Care. Listeners embark on a journey to understand how assisting other living beings can positively impact human mental health and well-being. The podcast delves into the concept of resilience and how resilience is demonstrated in both human and non-human animals.



LEGAL DISCLAIMER

This content is the property of the Association for Human-Animal Bond Studies / Annie Petersen, Ed.D. and is for educational purposes only.

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should contact your own physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical/mental health condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it based on information from this content. Relying on information provided by this content is done at your own risk, In the event of a medical or mental health emergency, contact your physician or contact 9-1-1 immediately.

© 2025 The Resilient Animal
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Episodes
  • The Enduring Bond: Exploring Human-Animal Relationships Through History
    Jul 15 2025

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    This episode delves into the momentous 1940 discovery of the Lascaux Cave by four young explorers in France, revealing stunning prehistoric art that provides a window into ancient human and animal interactions. The episode explores how animals have been integral to human societies, from prehistoric survival and spiritual symbolism to roles in mythology, companionship, and modern scientific research. The narrative traces these evolving relationships, emphasizing the continuous and dynamic bond between humans and animals throughout history and into the contemporary world.

    00:00 The Discovery of Lascaux Cave

    01:24 Unveiling Prehistoric Art

    01:56 Global Significance of Cave Art

    02:34 The Purpose and Meaning of Ancient Art

    03:38 Animal Symbolism in Ancient Civilizations

    05:02 The Evolution of Human-Animal Relationships

    07:33 Animals in Modern Society

    08:24 The Healing Power of Animals

    09:25 The Enduring Human-Animal Bond

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    12 mins
  • Shannon Kopp - SoulPaws Recovery Project
    Apr 1 2025

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    In this episode of The Resilient Animal, host Annie Petersen talks with Shannon Kopp of the SoulPaws Recovery Project about the therapeutic power of the human-animal bond for mental health recovery. Shannon shares her personal journey recovering from an eating disorder and how animals played a crucial role in her healing process. They also discuss the founding and growth of SoulPaws, an organization dedicated to providing free animal-assisted therapy for individuals with eating disorders and other mental health challenges.

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    32 mins
  • Kate LaSala - Rescued By Training
    Jan 21 2025

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    In this episode of The Resilient Animal podcast, host Dr. Annie Petersen talks with professional dog trainer and certified behavior consultant Kate LaSala.

    They explore how LaSala's work with dogs facing fear, aggression, and anxiety benefits both pets and their families, touching on her methods of positive reinforcement and virtual training.

    LaSala shares her personal journey with her own senior and special needs dogs, which led her to further specialize as an end-of-life pet doula. The discussion covers the emotional and logistical challenges of dealing with behavioral euthanasia, anticipatory grief, and the importance of incorporating pets into end-of-life plans. They also delve into how families, including children, can be supported through the grieving process.

    https://rescuedbytraining.com/death-doula/

    https://rescuedbytraining.com/2022/03/28/griefresources/

    https://rescuedbytraining.com/2024/09/16/at-home-euthanasia/

    Felted heart (SaltyHeart808/Etsy) and cremation ring (Sugarberry Memorials). Discussed on Rescued By Training 6-month post: https://rescuedbytraining.com/2024/10/14/my-grief-journey-six-months-in/

    You can view photos on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@AnimalBondAcademy/podcasts

    00:00 Introduction to The Resilient Animal Podcast

    00:44 Meet Kate LaSala: Professional Dog Trainer and Behavior Consultant

    02:49 Challenges and Techniques in Dog Training

    03:44 The Importance of Positive Reinforcement

    06:47 Kate's Journey and Passion for Animal Rescue

    11:01 Virtual Dog Training: Benefits and Approach

    18:56 End of Life Doula for Pets: Providing Support and Care

    22:54 Navigating Grief and Memorializing Pets

    33:01 Involving Children in Pet End-of-Life Decisions

    39:03 Contacting Kate LaSala and Available Resources

    44:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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    45 mins

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