Minnesota
Riverlands
Remembering the Humans at Our Animal Shelters
National Shelter Appreciation Week highlights the emotional toll on animal welfare workers.
Friends of the Animal Shelter marked National Shelter Appreciation Week by asking readers to recognize the staff and volunteers who care for animals. While their primary mission is animal welfare, these individuals often manage significant emotional burdens, including the stress of witnessing neglect and the challenge of limited resources. A 2023 national study of 243 shelter workers indicated that 53.5% experienced high levels of burnout, while 90.9% reported high levels of secondary traumatic stress. Supporters are encouraged to show patience and kindness to those working in these demanding roles. Betty found this update on November 3, 2026. You can read more about this initiative at the Friends of the Animal Shelter website.