After the Bite: Healing Emotionally

Animal bites are an expected risk and emotionally impactful part of shelter work. Beyond the physical injury, a bite can trigger fear, shame, guilt, loss of confidence and even long-term avoidance of certain animals or situations. This course provides a trauma-informed, practical framework for shelter staff and volunteers to emotionally recover after a bite occurs. Participants will learn how to process their own emotional responses, support coworkers, communicate needs, review protocols without blame and help create a culture of psychological and physical safety. Take this course before you get bit! 

Course author: Valerie Bogie, behavior consultant and veterinary social worker