In this episode of Tails of Resilience, we sit down with Kelly Bremken, the first Veterinary Social Worker at Oregon Humane Society.

Kelly is redefining what it means to see the humane society as a true social service, supporting people in countless ways while strengthening partnerships across the community. She shares how a trauma-informed approach transforms the question from “What’s wrong with you?” to “What has happened to you?”—a shift that empowers both her team and the people they serve to move forward with greater compassion and understanding.

We talk about how judgment can be a signal of burnout and compassion fatigue, and how paying attention to these signs can guide healthier, more sustainable practices. Kelly also reflects on the role of community and big-picture perspective in building resilience, reminding us that we’re never alone in this work.

This is a conversation about curiosity, compassion, and the power of reimagining how we care for both animals and people.

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode may contain themes of animal suffering including abuse and death, as well as themes of mental health that could include reference to suicide.

🔗Featured Rescue: Oregon Humane Society

Oregon Humane Society FACEBOOK

Oregon Humane Society IG

Oregon Humane Society MAIN WEBSITE

Resource(s) Referenced: Free Trauma-informed & culturally safe training: https://vancouverhumanesociety.bc.ca/trauma-informed-training/

🌟 Links/Sponsors

• Learn more about the Animal Rescue Hub: animalrescuehub.org
• Explore dog astrology + ZodiPaws books: https://zodipaws.com

🎵 Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/timelapse