Bio:

Sarah Bernardi is a registered social worker with a masters degree from the University of Toronto. Sarah has been in the specialized field of veterinary vocial work in Canada since 2017, with experience spanning private specialty practice and teaching hospital settings. Currently, she serves as the Veterinary Social Worker at the Ontario Veterinary College and Health Sciences Centre, where she provides a wide range of clinical support services, resources, and continuing education across the Large Animal and Companion Animal Hospitals . In her role, Sarah supports pet caregivers and OVC personnel. An advocate for integrating social work into veterinary and animal welfare settings across North America, Sarah recently completed a two-year term on the executive board of the International Association of Veterinary Social Workers. She also leads a peer group that offers a supportive and knowledge-sharing platform for mental health practitioners in veterinary hospitals and shelters.

Synopsis:

• Guiding Clients Through End-of-Life Decisions: Approaches for helping pet owners make informed, compassionate choices regarding their pet's end-of-life care, including hospice and palliative options.
• Supporting Families During and After Euthanasia: Techniques for providing emotional support throughout the euthanasia process, addressing client needs, and facilitating meaningful closure.
• Grief Counseling and Memorialization Resources: Offering tools and resources to help clients cope with the loss of a pet, including grief support services, memorialization ideas, and specialized counseling if needed.