Humane Hearts

Compassion fatigue is defined as 'caregiver burnout' or the 'cost of caring.' In animal caregivers, it is often associated with stress, sadness, fatigue, and feelings of hopelessness arising from working with animals in need, including in animal shelters, sanctuaries, animal protection organizations, rescue groups, veterinary hospitals, wildlife rehabilitation clinics, and other settings. In fields like conservation and environmental protection, it can appear as 'ecological grief,' or intense emotional distress and sadness over the state of our planet. Seeking support from those who can empathize with these feelings and have personal experience working in these taxing fields can help caregivers rebuild their strength and resilience. Ultimately, repairing and maintaining our emotional health strengthens the cause by helping us bring our best selves to the animals and causes we care so deeply about.