Dealing with Burnout in Animal Rescuers using Stress Inoculation Training

Abstract

The purpose of the research revolved around understanding signs of burnout within the population of animal rescuers in Karachi. Stress inoculation training was provided to these rescuers to equip them with skills to help navigate emotional strain due to their rescue work. Within the context of Karachi, animal rescuers are commonly exposed to negative consequences such as animal abuse, neglect, and cruelty which in turn lead to increased risk for burnout and stress (Jacobs & Reese, 2021). Their experiences were hence observed through a specific lens utilizing the Job Demands-Resources model and Burnout dimensions provided by Maslach. The research followed a qualitative design, where training was provided to 30 participants recruited through snowball sampling. Various themes emerged from semi-structured interviews, revealing workload, guilt, emotional exhaustion, support factors, and stress amongst more. Training allowed participants to gain insight, and results suggested that grounding techniques and self-regulation lead to reduction in burnout.