On neurodiversity with humans...

Image shows Sharon, a white human wearing a green leggings and black vest, sitting on the ground next to Muggins, a large black-and-white dog. The two connect in quiet eye contact and treat exchange.

Hi collaborator,

I received some wonderful feedback about the Happy Dog Happy Human Podcast!

After listening to Episode 19: On Neurodiversity with Humans, a listener (@jamessaures_rex) said that we should win a Pulitzer for how we share our everyday experiences in a way that is so empowering (I had shared how I advocated for my sensitivity needs with my gynecologist).

He also commented that, “the breathing is for everyone!” My co-host, Angela, and I pause to take a few deep breaths at the beginning of every episode. @Jamessaurus_rex said that, “it’s so unique to have this silence [that invites the listener to pause and breathe also] but it’s not too much because the conversation starts back up a few moments later”.

Finally, he commented that he loves how transparent we are about the structure of each episode, and how we naturally check in with each other before taking a break. He said, “It’s like you’re teaching people how to have conversations.”

I love a structured conversation, and I doubly love checking in with people about whether they need a break. You’re welcome to try these strategies, too!

Check out the latest episodes for opportunities to breathe, insights into empowering experiences, and some good conversations.

If you identify as neurodivergent, consider listening at a faster rate to help your brain absorb the material better!

Episode 19: On Neurodiversity with Humans

In this episode, we explore neurodiversity, ableism, and the deficit-based medical model of mental health care by sharing our personal experiences with being labeled, discovering our neurodivergence, and reclaiming a strengths-based approach to caring for ourselves. I help us appreciate the challenges and opportunities with being a neurodivergent dog guardian, and Angela teaches us the Humming Bee’s Breath to help us connect with our bodies and the greater human collective.

LISTEN HERE

Episode 20: On Neurodiversity with Dogs

In this episode, we explore neurodiversity in dogs and share our experiences of living with dogs whose behavior, sensory sensitivities, and training needs diverge from the "norm" of expected dog behavior. We also dig deeper into the term "neurodivergent" and examine the pro's and con's of using this term with dogs. Angela helps us find curiosity by accepting our dogs for who they are and I share the "Consensual Petting" Care Tip to help us give more autonomy to dogs when they interact with us.

LISTEN HERE

COMMUNITY NURTURANCE

This is a space in my newsletter where I plug community members in need. These folks have supported me, and I want to support them right back.

Kinder 4 Rescue is an animal rescue and low-cost veterinary surgical center in North Hollywood, CA. They provide dental cleanings, emergency surgeries, diagnostic work, orthopedic consultations & surgeries, and other surgeries.

Veterinary care has become a privileged opportunity in this country, with those who are poor and marginalized often having to choose between saving their dog’s life and paying their rent. No one should have to make that choice, and everyone should have access to life-saving care for their pets without risking the roof over their heads.

Kinder 4 Rescue is in need of blankets and towels. If you live locally and have some to spare, please drop some off at:

5308 Vineland Ave, North Hollywood, CA 91601

If you have some cash to spare, click the link below to send a donation.

DONATE

Ludar Animal Behavior & Consulting still needs support!

Ludar Animal Behavior & Consulting is an Indigenous-led organization that supports local communities in the US with a mutual aid fund. This fund redistributes resources to support housing, pet care, childcare, medical bills, and education for marginalized, disadvantaged, or disenfranchised pet guardians and professionals without taking money out of donations to pay overhead costs.

SUPPORT MUTUAL AID

Thank you so much for being here.

Please use the code COLLAB to get 10% off any of my offers.

Many thanks for reading this - I look forward to collaborating with you!

In warmth and light,

~ Sharon ~