“This is a multispecies ethnography, so I’m not treating them like just objects or tools. I recognize that they’re living beings with unique personalities.“– Heather Frigiola
Episode 5 of Season 7: Animals and the Divine Transcript
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of Canine Ministries, where dogs serve alongside their owners in Christian social outreach. Discover the powerful impact of therapy dogs and their unique role in ministry work, as we explore personal stories of comfort, healing, and the remarkable connection between God, humans, and our four-legged friends.
Guest: Heather Frigiola is an aspiring anthropologist and PhD candidate (ABD) at the University of Nevada – Las Vegas, specializing in the study of animals in human culture. Her doctoral dissertation focuses on canine ministries, unraveling the intricate relationship between humans and dogs within these unique religious contexts. With a background in lecturing and volunteering at renowned institutions, Heather brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her research. Her interdisciplinary approach and passion for understanding human-animal interactions make her a valuable contributor to the field of animal anthropology. Stay tuned for her insights into the cultural significance of canine ministries and their impact on communities.
Book Recommendation: The Sounds of Life: How Digital Technology Is Bringing Us Closer to the Worlds of Animals and Plants By Karen Bekker
Guest Profiles and Book Recommendations
What to start your own podcast in he Animal Advocacy or Animal Welfare Space? Check out my Beginner Podcast Consulting Services!
—
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anthrozoo/message
Humans interact with animals every day of our lives. Even those without pets interact with animals in various ways: diet, wildlife, the clothes they wear. Even most medicines use animals in testing or in the medicine itself. This is a podcast about Anthrozoology: the study of interaction between humans and non-human animals.
SUBSCRIBE: Spotify | RSS | Google Podcasts
FOLLOW: Facebook
“Animal killing looks like a very morally serious act. In those rules about sacrifice and consumption of animals in the Old Testament. And then animal sacrifice, is not saying that animal lives don’t matter. It’s saying quite reverse. Animals are …continue
Proudly brought to you by: 22 May 2023
Send us a textEpisode 8 of Series 14: The Dog’s Days of Autumn… TranscriptFeatured is a roundtable discussion focusing on the integration of humane, science-based techniques that prioritize emotional safety and trust. Key insights are provided on how trainers’ philosophies …continue
Proudly brought to you by: 17 November 2025
Send us a textEpisode 7, Series 14: Dog’s Days of Summer/Autumn… TranscriptFrom genetics to environment, we unpack the science behind your dog’s actions and what it means to live compassionately with them. Plus, a follow-up conversation with Kim and …continue
Proudly brought to you by: 3 November 2025
