This week on the Good Dog Pod, host Laura Reeves is joined by Debra Hamilton, Esq. to talk about the power of mediation in resolving issues surrounding dogs. Debra is the owner of Hamilton Law and Mediation and has extensive experience helping breeders, owners, and vets foster peaceful solutions. 

What are the different ways to approach a legal dispute? There are three main ways to settle a legal issue. One, the two parties can choose to negotiate an agreement outside of court, which is done without a third party. Two, a party can choose to pursue litigation, in which both parties have lawyers representing them in a court trial. Finally, the two parties can choose mediation, in which both parties agree to settle the issue with the help of a neutral third party. 

Why is mediation oftentimes the best answer? Mediation allows for both parties to truly listen to each other and understand the other’s intentions. The neutral mediator facilitates the ability to listen, and helps both parties be more open and less defensive. Oftentimes, problems arise because someone was overwhelmed and said something they didn’t really intend to say. Mediation can help in these sorts of situations, including owner-veterinarian disputes, breeder-buyer disputes, owner-handler disputes, and more. If encountering a problem, do not jump to litigation or write a bad review online; that would immediately ruin mendable relationships. Debra has a book on mediation in conflict over animals called Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt. Always remember that no matter what the issue is, the most important thing is to keep the animal’s best interest in mind. 

If you have any questions for Debra, reach out to her here or send an email to [email protected].