EP#07 | This episode is all about exploring the deep connections we share with animals and the ethical challenges in commercial pig farming with Dr. Abbie Viscardi., a PhD in animal welfare and host of the Animal Soulmates podcast.

Dr. Abbie shares the touching story of her soulmate dog, Amira, a black lab she raised as a guide dog puppy before adopting her back. Their bond highlights the profound impact animals have on our lives, offering stability, love, and companionship through life’s toughest moments.

The conversation then shifts to Dr. Abbie’s work in animal welfare, focusing on pain management for commercial pigs. She sheds light on the grim realities of industrial pig farming, including surgical castration without anesthesia, tail docking, and the psychological toll of barren environments. Dr. Abbie emphasizes the power of consumer choices in driving ethical change and offers practical steps for making more compassionate food decisions.

Whether you’re an animal lover, a pet owner, or simply curious about where your food comes from, this episode will inspire reflection on our relationships with animals and the systems that shape their lives.

About the Guest: Dr. Abbie Viscardi, Animal Welfare Scientist & Host of Animal Soulmates

Dr. Abbie holds a PhD in animal welfare and specializes in pain management for commercial pigs. Her research focuses on improving the lives of livestock while navigating the complexities of industrial farming systems. She is also the host of the Animal Soulmates podcast, where she explores the deep, often spiritual connections between humans and animals.

Lesson Takeaways:

1. The bond between humans and animals can be transformative, offering emotional support and stability through life’s challenges.

2. As pet owners, we must honor the commitment we make to our animals—they didn’t choose us; we chose them.

3. Many pigs in commercial systems endure painful procedures (e.g., castration, tail docking) without pain relief due to lack of FDA-approved options.

4. Small changes in purchasing habits (e.g., choosing ethically sourced meat, reducing consumption) can drive industry-wide improvements.

5. Sharing facts about animal welfare—without sensationalism—can inspire meaningful change.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction

02:00 - Dr. Abbie’s story of raising and adopting her soulmate dog, Amira

10:00 - The emoional toll of returning Amira to the guide dog program

20:00 - How Amira supported Dr. Abbie through life’s challenges

30:00 - Transition to Dr. Abbie’s work in pig welfare

40:00 - The grim realities of commercial pig farming (castration, tail docking, barren environments)

50:00 - Why pain management for livestock is overlooked—and how to fix it

60:00 - The role of consumers in driving ethical change

70:00 - Small steps for making more compassionate food choices

80:00 - Final thoughts on honoring our connections with animals

Resources:

Animal Soulmates (Find it on your favorite platform): https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/animal-soulmates/id1725929728

Check Dr. Abbie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbie-viscardi-88254143/

ButcherBox Ethical Meat Subscription: https://www.butcherbox.com/

Mikko’s Choice: https://mikkoschoice.com

Human Animal’s Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@humananimalspodcast-w5j