Cheryl McCormick | The Human Side of Animal Welfare
Cheryl McCormick | The Human Side of Animal Welfare
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In this episode of the Top Dog Podcast, Cheryl McCormick, CEO of the Athens Area Humane Society, discusses why the future of animal welfare depends on caring for people as much as animals. From expanding community medicine programs to serving rural Georgia, Cheryl explains how empathy, trust, and collaboration can transform lives on both ends of the leash.
One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation is that every successful animal welfare program begins with understanding the people behind the pets. Whether a family is struggling to afford veterinary care, facing housing challenges, or simply needs temporary assistance, Cheryl believes shelters should lead with compassion instead of judgment.
“When people win, animals win.”
Athens Area Humane Society has embraced this philosophy by expanding programs far beyond traditional sheltering. Through community medicine, pet food assistance, vaccination clinics, and partnerships that now reach more than 40 counties across Georgia, the organization focuses on preventing surrender before it becomes necessary.
“Our whole focus is getting people’s needs met and keeping families together with their pets.”
Rather than entering communities with predetermined solutions, Cheryl emphasizes the importance of building relationships first. By working alongside local veterinarians, community leaders, and trusted organizations, shelters can create sustainable programs that truly address local needs.
“Everything is based on trust.”
As a leader, Cheryl has built a culture centered on exceptional experiences—for adopters, volunteers, donors, and every guest who walks through the door. She believes technical expertise matters, but genuine kindness, empathy, and respect are what inspire lasting support for an organization’s mission.
“We forge positive emotional bonds with our guests.”
Throughout the episode, Cheryl also reflects on the joy of working in animal welfare. Despite the challenges, she reminds listeners that sharing a mission with compassionate people creates a workplace unlike any other.
“Together, you can move mountains.”
At its core, this episode is about recognizing that helping animals means investing in people, strengthening communities, and creating partnerships built on trust rather than judgment.
“We don’t know anything about anybody’s life.”
This message is especially important for Dooberteers, volunteers, shelter professionals, and animal advocates. Every compassionate conversation, every supportive service, and every act of understanding helps preserve the extraordinary bond between people and their pets.
If you’re passionate about helping animals, join the Doobert community where volunteers, fosters, transporters, and organizations work together to save lives every day. Visit Doobert.com to get involved.
And don’t forget to subscribe to the Top Dog Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.
Do you know any Top Dogs we should interview? We’re always looking for amazing people in animal welfare to feature on the podcast. Send us an email at tdp@doobert.com.
