Mission Driven
Occupational Stress in Animal Shelter Workers
A Growing Problem
Animal shelter workers are often exposed to high levels of stress due to the nature of their work. They are frequently faced with difficult and emotionally charged situations, such as caring for sick or injured animals, dealing with euthanasia, and working with aggressive animals. This can lead to a number of health problems, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. A quantitative study published in 2023 by Dawn M. Cowling explored the occupational stress experienced by animal shelter workers. The study found that shelter workers experience high levels of stress, particularly those who work with large numbers of animals or in high-intake shelters. The study also identified three categories of stressors that are unique or largely unique to the shelter setting: *Workload and time pressures
*Interaction with the public
*Caring for animals in distress
Conclusion
The study's findings highlight the need for animal shelters to provide support and resources to their workers to help them cope with stress. This may include providing counseling, training, and flexible work schedules. It is also important for the public to be aware of the challenges that animal shelter workers face and to be supportive of their work. 
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