Social worker Chen Huai-en, in collaboration with Encounter Animal-Assisted Intervention Counseling Center, held the "Where the Heart Leads, Walking with Dogs: Social Worker Self-Awareness and Healing Workshop" at Animal Shelter's Houli Campus on October 19. The workshop led social workers to experience emotional support and healing through in-depth interaction with the shelter's dogs, thereby alleviating compassion fatigue and occupational burnout, and improving the quality of their professional life and psychological resilience in the face of challenges.

This workshop was led by psychologist Wu Si-ying from Encounter Animal-Assisted Intervention Counseling Center. Before the workshop began, participating social workers familiarized themselves with the animal shelter environment and the dogs' living spaces, cultivating empathy and respect for the shelter animals and building an emotional foundation for subsequent interactions. Following this, the social workers engaged in simple interactions with the dogs, such as walking together, gently petting them, or practicing basic commands. During these activities, they practiced "feeling the present moment" and became aware of their own inner emotions and reactions when facing life's vulnerabilities and difficulties. Next, participants extended their animal interaction experience by gently touching the shelter's cats, experiencing the healing inspiration that different species can offer. Finally, the instructor guided a group discussion and sharing session, helping participants organize their emotional experiences, learning outcomes, and self-discovery from the day. Through this structured, guided process, the feelings and insights gained at the animal shelter were transformed into energy for self-care and professional practice.

The Health Inspection Office hopes that the animal shelter will be more than just a shelter; it will become a center for animal welfare education. In the future, it will continue to promote cross-sectoral cooperation to help more people understand the value of life education and emotional connection that animals provide. We welcome people from all walks of life to visit the animal shelter and experience the healing power of our fur babies!