Pets Are Family – An Interview With Erika Sinner

Hi everyone and thanks for joining me on this episode of Val Talk’s Pets. On this episode I have a guest with me who is a first time author and I think you are going to be quite enlightened with regards to the topic. Erika Sinner is the author of Pets are Family. Now I know that everyone listening knows that, but how many of you are given any bereavement time if you have one of your fur kids pass away? We know that companies extend time to an employee who has had a loved one, a human loved one, pass away, but why is it that employers do not see the passing of a beloved pet the same as having a human love one pass away? Erika is a successful CEO in her own right, but she is also a dog Mum and an advocate for
this very topic. I think many who are listening to this episode will have a real lightbulb moment.

So with no further ado, let’s get talking to Erika.

Well what do you think everyone? Was that not food for thought? I think Erika’s commitment to the topic of understanding pet bereavement is quite amazing. The journey that we go through with our pets and then with their passing is something that only other pet parents can really understand. But, as an employer who may or may not be a pet parent, the idea of extending heartfelt empathy and care to an employee by recognizing the depth of the sorrow is something that is not really at the forefront of employee policies. I love the work that she has put in to provide resources and tools to aid readers in launching their own quest to an employer to open dialogue on this matter. This is ground breaking. So the book is Pets are Family by Erika Sinner and you can get workplace resources right away at www.petsarefamily.info or visit her Instagram at Erika Sinner. There may even be a photo of me and Rory there! Thanks again to Erika for taking the time to speak with me and for bringing to light a topic that hasn’t been explored. Until now. Give this a think everyone, because as I say, knowing is caring.

Author Info

Erika Sinner is a CEO, a compassionate advocate, and the guiding force behind Directorie™, a company dedicated to propelling life science organizations forward in bringing vital products to market. With a career spanning nearly two decades, Erika’s innovative spirit has fostered successful teams and elevated brands within the pharmaceutical industry. Erika’s unwavering commitment to reimagining possibilities extends far beyond the boardroom; she’s a woman of action, unafraid to confront societal gaps head-on. Her determination to foster empathetic solutions shines in both her professional and personal life. Erika stands not only as an exceptional CEO but also a devoted wife, a passionate supporter of animals, and leading organizations with compassion.

Fueled by her experience in grief, Erika recognized an unaddressed dimension of pet loss, prompting her to shine a light on this often-overlooked facet of the human experience. Through her compelling storytelling, she empowers us to create a world that better supports one another in times of sorrow. Erika’s vision includes advocating for the inclusion of pet bereavement leave in organizational policies, sparking a wave of empathy-driven change and leadership.

Erika’s remarkable capacity to effortlessly blend approachable friendliness with strong support has left an enduring impact on those fortunate enough to cross her path. Her courage in openly sharing her personal journey of loss and vulnerability serves as a guiding light of hope for individuals navigating their own challenges. This book, a reflection of Erika’s spirit, will resonate with your heart and guide you toward meaningful action in the face of adversity. Erika is not merely an author; she’s a catalyst for healing and transformation.

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Tagged as: Pet Bereavement Leave,  Erika Sinner,  Pets Are Family,  Pet Loss.