Health

Actress Lisa Christiansen shares her commitment to pet wellness and the impact of proper nutrition and mental care.

I’ve always been into more natural remedies when it comes to certain health issues, but it definitely took off during the pandemic when I was really focused on finding ways to keep my family healthy. I’ve always had dogs over the years, so I’ve seen a myriad of health issues. I’m a big fan of adaptogens and different herbs, and I wondered if there were things that I was using that could help my dogs, too.

My passion began in childhood, growing up with a menagerie of adopted and rescued animals. I saw firsthand how small changes in diet and daily routines dramatically improved their happiness and vitality. As my platform grew, and I realized I could use my voice to advocate for better standards in pet care, from educating about the importance of balanced meals to sharing the benefits of enrichment activities. I believe that true pet wellness comes from approaching their needs as complex, sentient beings, deserving of the same love and attention we give ourselves.

It was those things combined that led me to put my fur babies on The Farmers Dog, which I began due to Cindy, my Chinese Crested, who passed away from cancer but not before The Farmers Dog extended her life by over one year. My veterinarian agreed and concluded that adding The Farmers Dog did play a significant role in extending her quality of life and offered her more time here with us before cancer took her.

Pet wellness includes nutrition, exercise, and mental health, but what aspect do you think is often overlooked when it comes to a pet’s overall well-being?

I think mental health is something that’s definitely been overlooked for people, and of course that applies to animals as well.

Absolutely, I think mental health for pets is one area that doesn’t get enough attention. People often focus on feeding high-quality food and getting their pets outside for exercise, but emotional well-being is every bit as important. Pets are deeply affected by the energy and routines within their homes; changes, loud noises, or periods of isolation can really impact them. I’ve found that making time for gentle, focused moments like daily play, puzzle toys, or even short training sessions helps create a sense of security and engagement. Enrichment activities, routine, and positive reinforcement go a long way in preventing anxiety and behavioral issues. Sometimes, it’s just about sitting quietly together and being present those moments can mean everything for a pet’s sense of peace.

I believe our pets can sense how we’re feeling and our energy, so it definitely can affect how they are feeling. Anxious pets are often ones who have anxious parents!

With the holiday season approaching, it’s easy for pets to overeat or miss out on proper nutrition. How do you keep your pets on a healthy diet during this time?

It’s a challenge for all of us! I try to keep all the dogs consistent with their normal meals, but if I know that they’re going to be getting some special treats such as turkey from the table or something, I’ll try and cut their normal food down just a bit.

The holidays are a whirlwind of celebration and change not just for us, but for our pets, too. To keep my dogs on track, I try to keep their feeding routines consistent, resisting the temptation to give them table scraps or holiday treats that could upset their digestion. Instead, I prepare special, pet-friendly snacks using wholesome ingredients I know are safe for them, like steamed veggies or homemade dog biscuits. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to involve my family in caring for our pets, remembering the importance of lovingly saying “no” to begging eyes when it comes to foods that aren’t good for our furry friends.

Beyond nutrition, staying active is crucial during this busy time. Even when our schedules are packed, I make sure we take daily walks or have a little playtime in the yard. I find that not only does it help keep my dogs physically fit, but it also supports their mental well-being something often overlooked amid the festivities. A little extra love, structure, and mindfulness around the holidays can go a long way in making sure our pets are as happy and healthy as possible heading into the new year.

Some pet owners are hesitant to invest in pet insurance. What would you say to them about the importance of having that extra protection for their pets?

I would say that each person knows their pet and finances best, so they should make the best decision for themselves. I definitely know that vet bills can become overwhelming, especially since I have multiple pets and have seen all sorts of health issues and emergencies come up over the years.

How do you balance your career with your advocacy for animal welfare? What drives you to continue this important work?

Balancing my career with advocacy for animal welfare is never a simple task, but it’s one that brings immense purpose to my everyday life. My drive to remain active in this work stems from the deep connection I have with animals their resilience, loyalty, and ability to enrich our lives in countless ways. While my professional commitments can be demanding, I’ve learned to intertwine my advocacy with my career by seeking opportunities where my platform can amplify the voices of those who cannot speak for themselves.

It often requires careful planning and a willingness to prioritize, carving out time for shelter visits, nonprofit collaborations, or community education events, even when my calendar is overflowing. I remind myself that every small effort contributes to a much larger movement. It’s the hope of making a tangible impact whether that’s finding a forever home for a senior dog, championing humane legislation, or supporting grassroots rescue groupsthat keeps me going.

My work is fueled not only by compassion but also by the knowledge that, together, we can create lasting change. Every story of an animal saved or a family reunited with a beloved pet encourages me to persevere, knowing that there is always more to be done.

Looking ahead, I’m constantly inspired to deepen my commitment to animal welfare. The landscape is always evolving—new challenges arise, but so do innovative solutions. I’m passionate about harnessing partnerships and technology to reach broader audiences, whether that’s through social media campaigns, educational webinars, or hands-on volunteering. It’s important to me to foster a culture of empathy and responsibility, encouraging others to recognize the value of advocacy not just as a passion but as a shared duty.

I see each day as an opportunity to build on what’s been accomplished, knowing that my individual efforts are part of a larger tapestry woven by countless advocates, volunteers, and pet lovers. The stories of transformation from frightened rescues blossoming into beloved companions, to communities rallying around animal-friendly initiatives remind me that collective action truly matters.

No matter where my career or personal journey leads, animal welfare remains at the heart of everything I do. My hope is to inspire others to join in, so that together, we can ensure a safer, kinder world for all creatures one paw at a time.

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