Karen Kalunian is a dog’s best friend — and a cat’s, and a rabbit’s, and a goat’s, too! Rhode Island’s premier animal advocate and humane educator is a tireless presence on social media, print, and TV broadcasts. Recently, she took a breather from launching Season 4 of “Animal Talk” on Rhode Island PBS to answer questions about how she found her calling and the importance of pets to our mental health.
What connection do you see between animals and mental health and in particular, youth mental health?
Karen Kalunian: In my experience of working with animals for over fifteen years, I have seen so many remarkable interactions with people and animals. It’s like there is a light behind people’s eyes that becomes brighter when they are able to be around animals. Whether it’s a wagging tail or a gentle purr, all of those actions cause a positive reaction. Animals bring a smile to our faces and are known to be stress relievers. For many people, animals become their best friends, someone they can talk to without judgment, and someone who is always there for them in a time of need. This is very true for children, especially when they get to grow up with a companion animal in the home. Time together every day is when they learn so many life lessons of what it entails to bond, care for and share their love with an animal!
Can you give examples from your own experiences as an animal advocate and humane educator of the benefits of pets/animals to young people’s mental wellness?
Kalunian: There are so many stories that have touched my heart over the years of watching people interact with animals. One in particular that always comes to mind was a young girl who came in with her family, who was actually afraid of dogs but also at the same time wanted to have one. The process entailed trying to get to the root of what was causing her fear and talking her through the process. It also meant finding a pup that would wash away her fears with a gentle and loving temperament. Luckily, all of those things came together; her family adopted a pup and it turned out to be a wonderful, happy-ever-after story. Sometimes, slow and steady is the best approach. Allowing a child to slowly pet the animal and getting to understand the animal’s needs and wants, this process creates a magical connection. Another memorable moment was when a wonderful family with an autistic child adopted a dog as a companion for him. After some time in the home, his parents said it truly opened up his world! Animals just have a special way of knowing exactly what we need too and we are so lucky to have them in our lives!
Please describe the beginning of your interest in animals
Kalunian: Both of my parents were huge animal lovers who instilled those loving feelings and instincts in me as well! We always had some sort of a furry friend! Over my childhood, we had dogs, cats, hamsters, rabbits and we even had fish! I loved the companionship of animals from a very young age, and now it’s my passion to help animals in need.
You seem very knowledgeable across species. How did you train or acquire your education in animal science/behavior?
Kalunian: Most of the work I do comes from hands-on experience. Working for over fifteen years now in the rescue and shelter world, you learn and you see a lot. I have also watched and learned from some amazing trainers, behaviorists, veterinarians and animal welfare experts throughout my tenure.
How has your work as an animal advocate evolved?
Kalunian: In the beginning, I started out as a volunteer because I wanted to make a small difference in the lives of animals. I quickly realized the amount of animals in need. Then I was hooked! I thought, if I can help one animal, then maybe I can help more. It truly is a passion and the best reward is helping them all find loving homes!
What drives you? Can you tell us about particular inspiration(s)?
Kalunian: In all honesty, it’s the animals themselves. They drive me and give me the inspiration to keep on going. They may not be able to speak our language, but they do have a special way of letting you know how grateful they are - it’s in their eyes! I have met hundreds of animals over the years, each one touches your heart in a different way. They are so resilient and continue to love even after going through so much sorrow and sometimes pain. They are remarkable!
What are the challenges of animal advocacy work?
Kalunian: Anyone in the animal industry will tell you, it is very difficult work. I think the biggest challenge right now is the amount of homeless animals, it is overwhelming at times, but you need to stay focused. I try to tell myself, just one at a time! I know that advocating for them not only changes their life for the better, but you also make a family happy too! Again, the reward is seeing the happily ever after stories!
What stories or animals changed you...and why?
Every story we do has a special meaning but if I had to pick something specific I would say any special needs or elderly animals because they show us strength and what it means to keep on going no matter what life throws your way! We can learn so much from animals if we take the time to!
Can you share one or two fun Animal Talk memories with our readers?
Kalunian: When Animal Talk was first coming to RIPBS, I remember thinking about how exciting this was for the animals! A place to showcase their beauty, brilliance and intelligence for all to see. I love sharing stories with the audience that they may not otherwise get the chance to see. Like the local RI cardiologist who also runs an animal rescue, or the Incredible Hulk, a dog who is wheelchair bound who found his way to America from Jordan and is now changing people’s lives through his therapy work. There are also the goats who landscape (goatscape) people’s property by eating their way across the land. I could go on, but you’ll have to watch to see more wonderful stories for yourself!
