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The XL Bully Ban: Taking Care of Your Mental Health While Working in Dog Rescue

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Working in dog rescue is a deeply rewarding but incredibly challenging job, and right now, the pressures are heavier than ever. With the recent XL bully ban in Ireland and the UK, shelters are overflowing, and many are facing the heart-wrenching task of euthanising innocent dogs that could have had a future under different circumstances. As a rescuer or volunteer, you likely give your heart and soul to every animal that comes into your care, but this also means that the emotional weight of your responsibility may sometimes feel like too much.


If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or emotionally exhausted, know that you are not alone. Your work is invaluable, and while it’s important to care for the dogs, it’s equally important to care for yourself. In this blog, we'll chat through some steps that you can take to safeguard your mental health and ease the mental burden of working in dog rescue.



Young woman wearing glasses and pink shirt stands outside kennels holding a rescue puppy.



1. Acknowledge the Emotional Toll


First and foremost, it’s important to acknowledge that what you’re feeling is valid. The trauma of euthanising dogs, the frustration of not being able to rehome animals quickly enough, and the constant pressure of overflowing shelters can take a deep emotional toll. Rescuers often deal with compassion fatigue, where the emotional strain of caring for animals leads to exhaustion, sadness, and burnout.


If you’re feeling this way, it doesn’t mean you’re weak—it means you’re human. Recognising that these emotions are a natural response to the difficult work you’re doing is the first step to freeing yourself of guilt and beginning to prioritise your mental health.


2. Set Emotional Boundaries


In rescue, it can feel like you’re constantly on the clock, but it’s crucial to set boundaries to protect your mental health. This might mean limiting your hours at the shelter or taking regular breaks away from the emotionally charged environment.


Boundaries don’t mean you’re not dedicated; they mean you’re preserving your ability to continue helping in the long run. Saying no when you need rest or stepping back when you’re emotionally drained is a strength, not a weakness. You can’t pour from an empty cup. If your social media is also tied to your rescue work, be sure to take breaks from your phone as well to allow yourself to fully switch off.


3. Build a Support System


Whether you’re a full-time worker or a volunteer, the weight of rescue work can feel like too much to carry on your own. Surround yourself with people who understand what you’re going through. This could be fellow rescuers, volunteers, or even a counsellor who specialises in animal-related trauma.


Consider forming or joining a support group for others working in rescue. Sharing experiences and struggles with people who truly understand your emotional burden can help relieve some of the isolation and stress.


4. Remember the Good You’re Doing

A short-haired dog plays in the sea with his mouth open. and tongue out.

In the midst of the current animal welfare crisis, it’s easy to focus on the losses — especially when faced with difficult decisions like euthanasia. However, it’s important to remind yourself of the incredible impact you’ve made on so many lives. Every dog you’ve saved, rehomed, or given a second chance to is a testament to your dedication, passion, and love.


When things feel heavy, take time to reflect on the positive outcomes—the dogs that went to loving homes because of your hard work, the animals that had a second chance at life because you cared. Every animal saved is a victory that's worth celebrating.


5. Create an Emotional Outlet

A woman wearing a green jacket jogs beside her dog along a path

Given the emotional intensity of rescue work, having a healthy way to release

those feelings is vital. For some, that might mean journaling about their experiences, talking openly with friends or loved ones, or even engaging in creative outlets like painting or music.


Exercise, too, can be a great way to clear your mind and relieve stress. Whether it’s a long dog walk, yoga, or a workout, movement helps your body release pent-up emotions and tension.


6. Focus on What You Can Control


One of the hardest parts of rescue work is that you can’t save every animal. The rushed XL bully ban and the resulting influx of dogs into shelters has unfortunately made this unavoidable This can feel defeating, but focusing on what you can control—whether that’s improving a dog’s quality of life during their time in the shelter, helping even one dog find a home, or advocating for better animal welfare policies—can give you a sense of purpose amidst the chaos.


Remember, every life you touch is valuable, and your efforts do make a huge difference.


7. Seek Professional Help if Needed


If you find yourself constantly feeling overwhelmed or emotionally drained, consider seeking professional. Speaking to a therapist who understands trauma can be incredibly cathartic, helping you to process your emotions and experiences in order to heal. You’re not alone in this, and there’s no shame in reaching out for help when you need it.


The Human Animal Welfare Alliance (HAWA) are currently running free online emotional health check-ins for UK rescue workers, led by Psychologist Dr Tara Quinn-Cirillo on the first Thursday of each month. These sessions offer a safe, supportive environment for shelter staff to talk through any issues they are facing and the impact this may be having on their emotional health and wellbeing. To sign up or find out more, visit the Eventbrite.



You Are Valued


As someone who works in dog rescue, you are part of an extraordinary group of people who fight every day for the most vulnerable animals. The work you do is not easy, and the emotional toll is real. But remember, you are making a profound difference in the lives of animals who need you. Take care of yourself with the same compassion you show the dogs in your care—you deserve it.




Four dogs chase each other through a sunny field


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