243: Culture Club: For The Love Of Animals with James Greenwood
Aug 17, 2023
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James Greenwood, resident veterinarian and author of the memoir 'For The Love of Animals', joins the podcast to discuss the power of pet ownership for LGBTQ+ people. They cover topics such as the impact of dogs on couples and relationships, the link between veterinary drugs and suicide, bringing dogs on TV, defying societal norms, and well wishes from the hosts.
Pets can have a profound impact on LGBTQ+ individuals, helping them come to terms with their identity and break down societal barriers.
There is a need for better understanding and support for mental health in the veterinary profession, including destigmatizing discussions about mental health.
Deep dives
The Bond Between Animals and Humans
Dr. James Greenwood, a veterinarian and author, explores the emotional connection between humans and animals. He discusses the profound impact that pets can have on our lives, citing his own experience with his dog Oliver. Greenwood shares how Oliver helped him come to terms with his own queerness and break down societal barriers. He also discusses the importance of acknowledging the mental health struggles that veterinarians face and the need for support within the profession.
Challenging Gender Stereotypes and Parenting
Greenwood talks about the challenges he and his husband face as visible gay dads. He reflects on the public's reactions and the occasional discomfort caused by societal expectations and gendered parenting norms. While there are still comments that perpetuate traditional gender roles, he emphasizes the need for inclusivity and equality in parenting. Greenwood shares the joy and defiance he feels in defying these norms and emphasizes the importance of creating a more accepting and supportive environment for all families.
Surrogacy and Building a Family
The podcast discusses Greenwood's experience with surrogacy and the unique bond he formed with his surrogate, Rachel. Greenwood expresses gratitude for the support they received and the special connection they share through the surrogacy journey. He highlights the joy and privilege of becoming a parent and the special moments they have as a family of three. Through their own journey, they challenge stigmas surrounding surrogacy and emphasize the love and dedication involved in creating a non-traditional family.
The Importance of Veterinary Mental Health
Greenwood delves into the challenges veterinarians face regarding mental health. He shares his own struggles and the impact of compassion fatigue, as well as addressing the high rates of suicide in the veterinary profession. Greenwood points out the need for better understanding and support for veterinarians, along with the importance of destigmatizing mental health discussions within the industry.
Can pet ownership help your mental health? This week the Homo Sapiens resident vet James Greenwood is here to talk to us all about his new book For The Love of Animals - a brilliant memoir about the power of pet ownership for LGBTQ+ people.
TW: This episode contains conversations around the topic of suicide.
If you, or anyone you know has been affected by any of the issues raised in this conversation, take a look at these resources:
Samaritans operate a 24-hour service helpline available every day of the year.
Phone: 116123
Email: If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org.
Switchboard - a helpline providing you with confidential support and information and will connect you to the right LGBTQ services or advice.
Phone: 01273 204050
Email: helpline@switchboard.org.uk
Mind Out- an online LGBTQ+ mental health online support service- see here
Vetlife- Independent, confidential and free help for everyone in the veterinary community who may be struggling.