Thanks so much, Julielani. I like the name. :-) Really, I don't feel retired. I've just had to slow down a bit on the physical side of animal sheltering…but after so many years and experiences in the field, I'm not ready to hang it up just yet. This work really gets into you; it stays with you. And yes, animal sheltering, animal rescue, animal welfare…It’s all come so far and there’s still so much to learn and to be done. Keep calm and soldier on.
Original Message:
Sent: 06-21-2024 08:47 AM
From: Julielani Chang
Subject: Share Your Stories: Navigating Change in Animal Welfare
Hi Debbie,
Congratulations on your "retirement"! Your insights into the evolution of animal shelters inspire hope that we will continue to work toward a more compassionate world of sheltering. As we learn more about dogs' behaviors through science, I am optimistic that we will prioritize their welfare and well-being. We deeply appreciate your 18 years of dedicated service, your enthusiasm, your tenacity, and your commitment to understanding both two-legged and four-legged beings. The next chapter awaits, and we are excited for what's to come.
------------------------------
Julielani Chang
The Life of Kai: Compassion Connections Inc.
Davis CA
Original Message:
Sent: 06-20-2024 01:09 PM
From: Debbie (Hogan) Johnson
Subject: Share Your Stories: Navigating Change in Animal Welfare
Well, after over 18 years working for the same nonprofit animal shelter here in the Cali East Bay, I've had to "retire" due to osteoarthritis and chronic lower back problems. Aging and wear and tear from almost two decades at an extremely rewarding but physically, mentally, and emotionally taxing position, which evolved from a Kennel Attendant to an Animal Care Associate.
Yes, in all of my 18 years in animal sheltering, I have seen many, many changes. Kennels went from metal bars and concrete with a long trench at the back of the rows of intake cages with nothing more than a big ol' fan for ventilation to state of the art OSHA standard wards and proper environmentally sound individualized ventilation and irrigation/drainage systems and sound proofing. Cat enclosures went from open rooms that were too close to dogs for comfort with metal cages that provided no hiding space away from humans or their litter boxes to sound proof condos with shelf space, hiding areas, and their own space both in the Adoption area and intake/holding/isolation, blissfully apart from dogs. We went from animal care staff basically winging animal behavior protocol to a specialized behavior department. Volunteers used to have to essentially shadow staff in order to learn until the Volunteer department was able to develop a well structured training program which I had the privilege to help structure at one point, as far as protocol was concerned. This helped me immensely to come out of my extremely introverted shell, develop leadership skills as well as some very meaningful friendships with a diverse group of people through the years. Even during the pandemic, when the world was sheltering in place, the organization adapted, keeping staff connected, paid, insured, educated and involved, for which I was truly thankful. I have learned so much from the privilege of working for that shelter from day to day duties to webinars and seminars, meaningful interactions between both the two-legged and four-legged. I have seen animal sheltering become a legitimate, well respected profession, as it has always deserved to be.
Although I have been "retired" from my position at this particular shelter, I am forever grateful for the experience and, in spite of my (slowly) aging body, I am still dedicated to the animal sheltering/animal welfare field. This is not the sort of career that one can just toss aside for another. I realize this and would gladly welcome the opportunity to remain relevant and involved. That being said, if anyone knows of any way that I can still be of service, I would appreciate it...as I appreciate you all for what you do. Thanks.,
------------------------------
Debbie (Hogan) Johnson
Shelter or rescue staff
East Bay SPCA Oakland
Oakland
Original Message:
Sent: 06-04-2024 11:03 AM
From: José Ocaño (he/him/el)
Subject: Share Your Stories: Navigating Change in Animal Welfare
Greetings Animal-Wellbeing Unicorns!
One thing I always hear is that the only constant in life is change. With change comes uncertainty, excitement, and sometimes fear. Often, when talking with shelter staff, rescue workers, and other stakeholders, they mention that one of the most challenging parts of their work is managing people through change.
This is where we want to hear from you: What has been the greatest change you've navigated? What did you learn?
Our intention is to feature 3-4 stories at our upcoming June 24th Community Conversation call.
I look forward to hearing your stories and learning from the collective wisdom of this community.
All my best,
José Ocaño
Jose@hatching.me
#OrganizationalManagement
------------------------------
José Ocaño
Founder and CEO
Hatching
CA
------------------------------