69: Healing Paws: The Spiritual Impact of Therapy Dogs in Christian Ministries with Heather Frigiola (S7)

"This is a multispecies ethnography, so I'm not treating them like just objects or tools. I recognize that they're living beings with unique personalities."- Heather Frigiola

Episode 5 of Season 7: Animals and the Divine Transcript

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of Canine Ministries, where dogs serve alongside their owners in Christian social outreach. Discover the powerful impact of therapy dogs and their unique role in ministry work, as we explore personal stories of comfort, healing, and the remarkable connection between God, humans, and our four-legged friends. Guest: Heather Frigiola is an aspiring anthropologist and PhD candidate (ABD) at the University of Nevada - Las Vegas, specializing in the study of animals in human culture. Her doctoral dissertation focuses on canine ministries, unraveling the intricate relationship between humans and dogs within these unique religious contexts. With a background in lecturing and volunteering at renowned institutions, Heather brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her research. Her interdisciplinary approach and passion for understanding human-animal interactions make her a valuable contributor to the field of animal anthropology. Stay tuned for her insights into the cultural significance of canine ministries and their impact on communities.

Book Recommendation: The Sounds of Life: How Digital Technology Is Bringing Us Closer to the Worlds of Animals and Plants By Karen Bekker

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