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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

Each episode invites listeners on a journey to discover how assisting other living beings can profoundly impact our own mental health. Dr. Petersen explores the science and stories behind resilience, highlighting inspiring examples from both human and non-human animals. Through engaging interviews and thoughtful insights, the podcast delves into how acts of compassion and care for animals can foster healing, growth, and resilience in people.


What makes The Resilient Animal truly unique?

  • In-person interviews with animal advocates, mental health professionals, and everyday heroes who share their personal stories and expertise.


  • Fascinating explorations of animal folklore from around the world, revealing the symbolic and cultural significance of animals in human societies.


  • Deep dives into the importance of animals in history and the lives of historical figures, uncovering how animals have shaped - and been shaped by - our collective past.


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.

© 2026 The Resilient Animal
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Episodes
  • The Chinese Zodiac: Animals and Beyond
    Feb 3 2026

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    In celebration of the Chinese New Year, The Resilient Animal, host Dr. Annie Petersen delves into the fascinating world of the Chinese Zodiac. Learn about the rich mythology and historical origins of this ancient system that combines astronomy, philosophy, and folklore. Discover the personality traits and unique stories behind each of the 12 Zodiac animals, and how they continue to influence modern culture, personal identity, and even traditions. Join us on this journey to understand what makes us Resilient Animals and how these timeless symbols connect us across the globe.

    00:00 Introduction to The Resilient Animal Podcast

    00:31 Understanding the Chinese New Year

    01:15 The Chinese Zodiac: An Overview

    05:17 The Great Race: Mythology of the Zodiac

    09:23 Personality Traits of Zodiac Animals

    21:30 Modern Influence of the Zodiac

    26:57 Cultural Significance and Adaptation

    30:50 Conclusion and Reflection

    What is Your Zodiac Animal?

    Rat 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, and 2020 Famous Rat people include William Shakespeare, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Prince Harry.

    Ox 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, and 2021 Notable Ox personalities include Barack Obama, Vincent van Gogh, and Margaret Thatcher.

    Tiger 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, and 2022 Famous Tigers include Marilyn Monroe, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Queen Elizabeth II.

    Rabbit 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, and 2023 Famous Rabbit people include Albert Einstein and Angelina Jolie.

    Dragon 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, and 2024 Famous Dragons include Bruce Lee, John Lennon, and Martin Luther King Jr.

    Snake 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, and 2025 Famous Snake people include Abraham Lincoln, Audrey Hepburn, and Pablo Picasso.

    Horse 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, and 2026 Famous Horse people include Nelson Mandela, Oprah Winfrey, and Paul McCartney.

    Goat 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, and 2027 Famous Goat people include Michelangelo, Steve Jobs, and Nicole Kidman.

    Monkey 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, and 2028 Famous Monkey people include Leonardo da Vinci, Julius Caesar, and Tom Hanks.

    Rooster 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, and 2029 Famous Rooster people include Beyoncé, Serena Williams, and Elton John.

    Dog 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, and 2030 Famous Dog people include Mother Teresa, Winston Churchill, and Elvis Presley.

    Pig 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, and 2031 Famous Pig people include Hillary Clinton and Arnold Schwarzenegger.

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    32 mins
  • Adopt a Bird Month: The Joys and Commitments of Bird Companionship
    Jan 20 2026

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    In this episode of the Resilient Animal Podcast, hosted by Dr. Annie Petersen, we celebrate Adopt a Bird Month by exploring the benefits of bird adoption and the profound bond humans can form with these intelligent animals. Dr. Petersen highlights the challenges and responsibilities of bird ownership, emphasizing the need for proper care, socialization, and the ethical commitment of adopting from rescues instead of buying from breeders. The episode covers various bird species, their unique needs, and offers guidance on making informed adoption decisions, ensuring that potential adopters are well-prepared for a lifelong commitment.

    00:00 Introduction to the Resilient Animal Podcast

    00:32 January: Adopt a Bird Month

    01:13 The Reality of Bird Adoption

    02:41 Understanding Bird Companionship

    03:58 Commitment and Care for Birds

    06:48 Choosing the Right Bird Species

    08:44 Preparing for Bird Adoption

    12:18 The Adoption Process

    16:10 Adjusting to a New Home

    19:07 Essential Bird Care Tips

    22:27 The Importance of Social Interaction

    25:06 Monitoring Bird Health

    28:13 The Rewards of Bird Companionship

    30:16 Getting Involved and Making a Difference

    34:46 Conclusion and Resources

    Association of Avian Veterinarians (AAV): https://www.aav.org/

    Avian Welfare Coalition (AWC): https://www.avianwelfare.org/

    Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary (Near San Diego): https://www.freeflightbirds.org/

    Parrot Education and Adoption Center (PEAC): https://peac.org/

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    35 mins
  • Embracing the New Year: Animal-Inspired Resolutions for Mindfulness
    Jan 6 2026

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    In this episode of "The Resilient Animal," host Dr. Annie Petersen explores how animals can inspire human #mindfulness and #wellbeing. She discusses the natural mindfulness that animals embody, backed by scientific research, and how observing and interacting with them can lower stress and increase present-moment awareness. The episode encourages listeners to set intentions for the new year inspired by animal behavior, rather than rigid resolutions, and offers practical tips for integrating these lessons into daily life.

    00:00 Introduction to The Resilient Animal

    00:26 Embracing the New Year with Animal Wisdom

    01:07 Learning Mindfulness from Animals

    03:48 Scientific Insights into Animal Mindfulness

    08:45 Mindfulness Exercises Inspired by Animals

    14:54 Animals in Yoga and Mindfulness Practices

    21:29 Setting Intentions Inspired by Animals

    28:22 Practical Tips for Observing Animal Wisdom

    30:16 Conclusion and Invitation to Share

    https://www.instagram.com/resilientanimal/

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    32 mins
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