Hey friends!   A new episode of Why Do Pets Matter just dropped, and this one is a heart-opener. I sat down with @drjenniferedwards, a veterinarian and leadership energy coach, to talk about the power of awareness, breath, and boundaries that actually support us. We dig into how our energy shows up in the exam room and at home, why taking responsibility is empowering (not blame!), and simple ways to pause, reset, and communicate with more ease, so pets, clients, and teams all win. If you’ve ever felt stretched thin or reactive, this conversation will give you practical tools you can use today.   🎧 Listen now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJQHCrqDREg If it resonates, please like, share, and leave a 5-star review so more pet lovers can find the show. Thank you for listening! 💚🐾   Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjenniferedwards/ https://drjenniferedwards.com/   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation #WhyDoPetsMatter #VetMed #Leadership #Wellbeing #PetParents #Communication

On this episode of Why Do Pets Matter, I sat down with my dear friend Dr. Janet Hoy Gerlach, a licensed social worker and the driving force behind Ask About the Pet at the Open Door Veterinary Collective. We talked about how one small question, “Do you have a pet?”, can open the door to empathy, understanding, and better care for people in crisis. Janet shared powerful stories about how pets ground us during difficult times, how asking about them builds trust between providers and clients, and how the Open Door team is helping make veterinary care more accessible for everyone. It’s a heartwarming, eye-opening reminder that our connection to animals truly shapes how we heal and help others. Watch Now: https://youtu.be/4ocPQnAnbts   Guest Links: https://opendoorconsults.org/ https://www.pethelpfinder.org/m/phf   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation #WhyDoPetsMatter #Podcast #VeterinaryCare #PositiveCulture #Leadership

Watch this episode of Why Do Pets Matter with Dr. Robert Parkins, DVM, the veterinarian behind My Balto. We talk about real solutions that help families afford care without turning vet visits into crisis decisions. Dr. Parkins shares how My Balto lets clinics build their own angel funds, use safe community fundraising, and even support preventive care so pets stay healthy and at home. We also chat about creative ideas that bring neighbors together to help pets in need and how the program is expanding across the U.S. and into Canada. If you care about keeping pets with their people, this one is for you. Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOkrKvhhZZM   Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-parkins-93a2a813/ https://charity.mybalto.com/   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation  

I sat down with Aimee St. Arnaud from Open Door Veterinary Collective to talk about real-world ways we can keep pets with their families, without turning vet visits into battles about money. We dig into transparent communication, “financial triage,” pay-over-time options that actually work for clinics, and how small shifts (like normalizing the money conversation and inviting clients into the care plan) can prevent surrender and crisis decisions. We also touch on Open Door’s tools for teams and pet parents, including resource finders and practical training that make access to care possible. If you’re a veterinarian, CSR, tech, or a pet parent who wants better partnerships with your clinic, this one’s for you. Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w75r2tyTiKw Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aimee-st-arnaud-9055b2177?trk=public_post_feed-actor-name https://opendoorconsults.org/   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation   #WhyDoPetsMatter #OpenDoorVet #AccessToCare #VetMedCommunity #PetFamilies

Listen to this episode of Why Do Pets Matter with filmmaker Grace Galletti, creator of the documentary The Weight They Carry. We talk candidly about the mental health challenges facing veterinarians and their teams, the myths that fuel misunderstanding, and how pet parents and practices can support each other with more empathy, transparency, and care. Grace shares why she set out to tell this story, what she learned while filming inside busy clinics, and how we can open healthier conversations around grief, burnout, and the human–animal bond. If you work in vet med or love someone who does, this one matters.   Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracegalletti/ https://www.gracegalletti.com/   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

Listen to this episode of Why Do Pets Matter for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Aubrey Fine, Professor Emeritus at California State Polytechnic University and an internationally recognized pioneer in animal-assisted therapy. Dr. Fine takes us on his journey from growing up in a pet-free home to becoming one of the foremost advocates for the human-animal bond, a path that began with an unexpected friendship with a gerbil named Sasha.   In this heartfelt discussion, Dr. Fine shares the therapeutic benefits of animals for children with learning disabilities, autism, and ADHD, while emphasizing why animal welfare must always come first in therapy settings. He reflects on more than four decades of groundbreaking work, his deep relationships with animals from therapy dogs to his horse’s foal “Fine-tastic,” and the profound lessons animals teach us about empathy, resilience, and responsibility.   Dr. Fine’s contributions to the field are immense. He served 42 years as a professor at Cal Poly, is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in children with ADHD, learning disabilities, and developmental disorders, and has been recognized with the William F. McCulloch Award for Excellence in Human-Animal Interaction Education and Practice as well as the CSU Wang Award for Distinguished Professor. His publications include Handbook on Animal-Assisted Therapy (6th Edition, 2024), Afternoons with Puppy: Inspirations from a Therapist and His Animals, and Our Faithful Companions: Exploring the Essence of Our Kinship with Animals. Watch It: https://youtu.be/UzkTmHJO6S8   Guest Links: Dr. Fine's website: www.aubreyhfine.com Cal Poly faculty profile: www.cpp.edu/faculty/ahfine/ Clinical practice: www.aubreyhfine.com (Claremont, CA)   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

This week on Why Do Pets Matter, I’m joined once again by the incredible Maribeth Decker for a conversation straight from the heart. We’re talking about a groundbreaking legal case that recognizes pets as immediate family, why our animals inspire us to be the people they think we are, and how to navigate the toughest moments with love and compassion. From celebrating the bonds we share to making difficult end-of-life decisions, this episode is a reminder that pets are never “just property”, they are family. Watch Now: https://youtu.be/eNiw8VU--fA   Guest Links: https://sacredgrove.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/maribethdecker/   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

In this episode of Why Do Pets Matter, I talk with industrial organizational psychologist Taeler Hammond about the growing connection between animal law, veterinary conflict, and the human-animal bond. We explore why treating pets as property in court often falls short, and how empathy and communication can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved. Taeler shares personal stories that show how small moments can turn into big conflicts—or real solutions—depending on how we respond. We also talk about de-escalation techniques, the role of social media in disputes, and why including clients in the problem-solving process builds trust. If you work with animals or care about the people who do, this conversation is full of helpful tools and perspective. Watch Now: https://youtu.be/Qs1CqBQzy7Y   Guest Links: Website: https://www.deiprofinder.com/california/los-angeles/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-consultant/nouveau-paige-consulting Instagram: @nouveau_paige_consulting Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taelerhammond/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWC4p9h06_s   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

Join us for a groundbreaking conversation with Dr. Jeff Grognet, a veterinarian who's challenging the status quo of modern pet care. In this episode, Dr. Grognet shares his journey from conventional practice to holistic veterinary medicine, offering eye-opening insights that could transform how you think about your pet's health. Dr. Grognet's mission extends beyond individual pet care—he's working to educate both veterinarians and pet owners about the benefits of individualized, holistic approaches that consider each animal's unique needs and circumstances.   Whether you're questioning standard veterinary protocols or simply want to explore additional options for your pet's wellbeing, this conversation offers valuable perspectives that could reshape your approach to pet care. Tune in to discover how thinking beyond basic animal welfare can lead to healthier, happier pets and more informed pet care decisions.   Guest Links: drjeff@earthvet.com www.newearthvet.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jeff-grognet-b3802595/?originalSubdomain=ca   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation  

On this episode of Why Do Pets Matter, I’m joined by the insightful Terri Stockdreher, LCSW, MPH — a trauma-informed therapist and fellow NAMV Blueprint advisor — for a powerful conversation about mental health in the veterinary field. Terri specializes in helping high-achieving veterinary and healthcare professionals who are burned out, emotionally exhausted, and struggling to keep up the appearance that everything is “fine.” Together, we discuss the deep emotional connections we have with animals, why communication in clinics can break down, and how unresolved trauma can surface in moments of stress — both for clients and veterinary teams. We also dive into practical strategies for conflict resolution, boundaries, and creating workplaces that are emotionally supportive from top to bottom. Whether you're a veterinarian, veterinary technician, practice manager, or client, this conversation will leave you thinking about how empathy, preparation, and breathing (yes, breathing!) can shift the dynamic for everyone involved. 🎧 Tune in, reflect, and let us know what you think: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgDUZgYW9uk #WhyDoPetsMatter #VeterinaryMentalHealth #NAMV #VetMed #ClearBlueprint #WorkplaceWellness #TraumaInformedCare   Guest Links: https://bravelivingcenter.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/terri-stockdreher/   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

On this episode of Why Do Pets Matter?, I had the honor of speaking with Jeremy Cohen, founder of Boston Dog Lawyers, and his client Brett Lyman, who together made legal history in Massachusetts with the landmark case Lyman v. Lancer. Jeremy and Brett share their journey navigating the complexities of a groundbreaking case that ultimately led to Massachusetts recognizing shared custody agreements for pets. We discussed the thoughtful and patient approach they took, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the pet's best interests over the human desire to "win." Join us as we explore the intersection of compassion, law, and the transformative power of pets in our lives. This conversation beautifully illustrates why pets truly matter. Watch: https://youtu.be/9f5z3ka6es8   Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-cohen-68b037a/ https://www.bostondoglawyers.com/jeremy-cohen   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Kate Boatright on this week’s episode of Why Do Pets Matter — and let me tell you, what a powerful conversation! 💙 Kate is an incredible advocate for mentorship and the importance of spectrum of care in veterinary medicine. She shares so beautifully about the lessons she’s learned (the wins and the wobbles!), and how she’s created a much-needed space to support both new grads and the mentors guiding them. We also talked about the deep, emotional ways pets have shaped our lives — including the dog that helped her mom through breast cancer and my own story about a pup who carried a family through a scary diagnosis. These are the reasons pets matter. 💫 If you're in vet med, this episode will speak to your heart. And if you’re a pet parent, it’ll give you a whole new appreciation for the people who care for your animals. 🎧 Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts 📺 Or watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Rv7BQ6xVck Let me know what part of Kate’s story resonated most with you!   Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateboatrightvmd/ https://writetheboat.com/   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation 

I’m beyond thrilled to welcome my friend Amanda Ripley to the Why Do Pets Matter podcast! Amanda is a brilliant journalist and the author of one of my all-time favorite books, High Conflict. In this episode, we talk all about what happens when we stop digging in our heels and start leaning into connection—yes, even in the middle of a disagreement (or two).   Amanda and I dive into how good conflict—the kind that challenges and stretches us without tearing us apart—can show up in all areas of life, from Capitol Hill to our own backyards. And you know I had to bring it back to pets! We talk about how animals can become both the heart of a dispute and the key to healing, and why conversations about pets often open the door to deeper understanding.   You’ll also hear Amanda share how a former gang leader inspired her to think differently about political violence (and dog sharing, believe it or not!), and we reflect on what it means to regulate our emotions, listen actively, and choose curiosity over conflict. Listen and Download: Watch the video version: https://youtu.be/gl3YVlWpQ5E   Guest Links: https://www.thegoodconflict.com/ https://www.amandaripley.com/high-conflict   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

In this episode of Why Do Pets Matter, I had the absolute pleasure of welcoming back my dear friend, Maribeth Decker of Sacred Grove. Maribeth is an incredible animal communicator, and we dove into a topic that’s so important yet often overlooked—how our life changes affect our pets. Whether you’re going through an illness, a job loss, a big move, or even just dealing with the everyday stress of the world—we talk about how those shifts in your energy can deeply impact the animals we love. Maribeth shares beautiful, practical advice on how to support your pet emotionally through life’s curveballs, how to recognize behavior changes that might be tied to your own stress, and why loving, intentional connection is everything. Video: https://youtu.be/pXad2SB4-y8   Guest Links: https://sacredgrove.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/maribethdecker/   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

In todays episode of Why Do Pets Matter, I spoke with my good friend, Natalie Armstrong-Motin, Founder of Will Work For Food who also does Social Media Marketing Creation and Management for Mediators and Arbitrators Around the World. From the emotional benefits of having a furry companion while working alone to comparing pet care infrastructure across countries like the Netherlands, France, and the United States, our conversation offers practical insights and thoughtful reflections. We also challenge common assumptions about American exceptionalism, discuss the concerning parallels between media control in different countries, and share a surprisingly effective librarian's response to book-banning efforts. Join us for this thought-provoking discussion that weaves together the personal and the political, reminding us all of our responsibility to engage respectfully with different perspectives while staying true to our values. Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zEXuHPP_Xkk   Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marketingresolution/ https://www.willworkforfood.news/   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

In this episode of Why Do Pets Matter, I had the honor of speaking with Christina Warner, a family barrister in the UK and the incredible force behind Ruby’s Law. Christina is working hard to change the law in the UK to make sure pets are protected in cases of domestic abuse. As someone who’s spent years helping people navigate conflicts over animals, I know just how important this is. Too often, pets are caught in the middle—or worse, used as tools of control. Christina shares real stories from her work, the heartbreaking reality for many pets and their people, and how Ruby’s Law could change that. We also talked about how the human-animal bond plays such a big role in people's lives, especially in moments of crisis. This conversation really opened my heart, and I think it will for you too. Listen now and help us spread the word—because pets are family, and they deserve protection too. 🎧 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/BcE7xJsQH7Q   Guest Links:  📩 contact@rubyslaw.co.uk 🔗 RubysLaw.co.uk🫶 Donate today: https://donate.stripe.com/bIY15L7rqfwQ6dOfYZ 🙌 Join the movement: https://www.change.org/p/support-ruby-s-law-for-the-protection-of-pets-in-domestic-abuse-cases📸 Instagram: rubyslaw2025🎶 TikTok: rubys_law 💼 LinkedIn: rubyslaw   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

✨ New Episode Alert! ✨ I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with my dear friend Carolyn Shadle on this episode of Why Do Pets Matter? 🎙️🐾 Carolyn is an incredible communicator, educator, and author who has dedicated her career to helping people really listen and connect—something that’s so important in veterinary medicine and beyond. In this episode, we dive into the power of empathetic communication in veterinary practices and how active listening can transform client interactions. We explore the significance of the human-animal bond and its profound impact on both pet owners and veterinary teams. Carolyn shares valuable insights on how veterinary professionals can better connect with clients, offering them agency in the process, which ultimately leads to better care for our pets. Carolyn also discusses her latest book, From Religion to Reason: My Journey, where she reflects on her transition from church work to communication, giving readers an honest and personal look at her path. We also touch on her other impactful books like Building Communication Skills and Communication Case Studies, which offer great advice for both professionals and pet owners looking to improve communication and resolve conflicts more effectively. Listen Now:    Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynshadle/ Her Books- https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B00929AUYQ/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=05eb1cc7-ed79-4f4e-82fe-880011ffa812&ref_=ap_rdr   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation  

This conversation with my dear friend Fiona Farrell is one you don’t want to miss! As fellow attorneys deeply involved in animal law, we dive into the profound ways pets and horses shape our lives—not just as companions, but as independent beings with their own agency. 🐶🐴 From our shared love of horses to the incredible impact of animal advocacy, this episode is full of heart, wisdom, and a few laughs along the way. 💙 We even discuss the importance of end-of-life decisions for our beloved animals and how we, as pet owners and animal advocates, can ensure their well-being throughout their entire journey. 💬 Why do pets matter to YOU? Drop a comment and let me know! 🎧 Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/A6hPs94k_Rc 🔄 Like, Share, & Subscribe to help spread the message of why pets matter! #WhyDoPetsMatter #AnimalLaw #PetAdvocacy #HorsesOfInstagram #AnimalLovers #PetLife   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

I’m beyond excited to share this powerful conversation with Dr. Emily Talkington! 🎙️ We dive deep into the incredible ways pets and wildlife shape our lives, from the spiritual connection they bring to the courage it takes to be open, learn, and sometimes—be wrong.  Dr. Emily’s experience with international rescue, chimpanzee rehabilitation, and wildlife advocacy is truly inspiring. Her passion for communication and understanding between humans and animals is something we can all learn from. Tune in now and let’s explore why pets—and ALL animals—matter more than ever! 🐾💙 Drop a comment and let me know your biggest takeaway from this episode! If you would like, you can watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/k9yio4_BcmI   Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-talkington-4b25a2300/ Articles: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/project-chimps-sanctuary-dispute-chimpanzee-welfare https://law.lclark.edu/live/profiles/17129-emily-talkington   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation

This episode is a little different—I’m flipping the script and interviewing myself! After 10,000 downloads (thank you all so much!), I realized I’ve never shared my own story on Why Do Pets Matter. So today, I’m taking a step back to talk about why pets matter to me, how I got started in this work, and why I shifted from litigation to mediation to better serve pets and their people. From my first childhood dog to my lifelong passion for Irish Setters, breeding, and showing, my love for animals has always shaped my path. As an attorney, I saw firsthand how traditional legal battles weren’t always in the best interest of the pets caught in the middle. That’s why I built Hamilton Law and Mediation—to help people resolve conflicts over animals in a way that prioritizes what truly matters: the well-being of the pet. In this episode, I’ll share stories from my journey, insights into how conflict resolution can make a difference in pet-related disputes, and why mediation is such a powerful tool in everything from divorce and custody battles to contracts and neighborhood disputes. Plus, I’ll break down my Stop, Drop, and Roll method for managing conflict, the importance of transparency, and how looping can help people truly feel heard. This podcast has been an incredible journey, and I’m so grateful for all of you who listen, share, and support Why Do Pets Matter. If you love the show, please take a moment to rate and review—it really helps others find these important conversations. And as always, give your pets a kiss from me! 🐾💕 If you would like to watch the video version, you can do so here: https://youtu.be/a41kx2p4j_o   Show Links: https://hamiltonlawandmediation.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HLawMediation Debra's Book: "Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt: How to Use Mediation To Resolve Conflicts Over Animals," https://www.amazon.com/Nipped-Bud-Not-Butt-Mediation/dp/151502024X/ref=sr_1_1 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HLawMediation