Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelly Fitzpatrick.
Hi Shelly, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Sure, I was fortunate to grow up surrounded by many different types of animals. My family was always kind and truly cared about them. My mother, to this day, continues to rescue and care for cats in need. She traps them and brings them to get spayed and neutered. One time, she and my Papi accidentally trapped a skunk! Now that’s a funny story!
Looking back, it’s interesting to reflect on how many of us grow up saying we love animals, yet we consume the ones we don’t love and don’t see. That realization became an important part of my personal journey.
Over time, I began to wonder why we would have a dog for a pet and yet eat pigs, cows, and chickens.
My awakening moment for a plant based lifestyle, actually came from learning about the dog and cat meat trade in Asia.
I traveled to South Korea and began speaking out with the other activists to raise awareness to end this old barbaric tradition.
Being an animal rights activist for the dogs in South Korea became one of the causes closest to my heart. My advocacy has expanded over the years, and storytelling has become an important part of how I contribute.
If you have Amazon Prime, you can watch “Dog Warriors” to learn more.
I’ve written three books, and I’ve been a producer on several influential documentaries that focus on raising awareness for animals, people, and communities that are often overlooked.
These projects have highlighted issues affecting the underprivileged, the lesbian and gay community, animals who have no voice nor right’s of their own, individuals living with disabilities, and the broader health of our planet.
At the core of everything I do—whether writing, producing, or speaking out—is a desire to bring attention, empathy, and compassion to those who might otherwise be unseen or unheard.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There have definitely been and continue to be struggles along the way. I recently told a friend that’s how I know I’m making a difference. When opposition comes in to tell you what you’re doing wrong – have faith and know you are on the right path.
The light can only shine in the darkness.
Some of the greatest challenges I have are finding ways to tell a stories about the atrocities that happen to animals. How do you get people to actively want to watch or read about it in order to create change.
The final thought I’d like to share with your readers is we need stronger laws and greater penalties against animal abusers. You can Google “Orelha” and “Peachy” and help to raise awareness to end sites that actively allow live video streams of such grave harm to animals.
We have a lot of work ahead of us, but I have confidence in all of the good people that do their part every day. I am very fortunate to live on a street where many of my neighbors are in animal rescue.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I feel the most pride when I know I’m making a difference for animals.
From writing books and being a producer on documentaries that make a meaningful impact, to rescuing and saving iguanas that had recently fallen into the water, due to the immense cold front that suddenly impacted Florida.
I like to share what I know with others in a matter that’s human. I’m certainly not perfect. I’m plant-based, not vegan, and I do what I can to make a difference for animals. I believe I do it in a way that shows people you don’t have to be perfect. You just have to start – even if it’s something as small as changing your milk from cow’s milk to almond milk or cutting back on meat once or twice a week, it will all add up.
Change happens gradually, and I promise you will feel good about yourself when you start incorporating some of these changes. It is better for the animals, obviously, and it is better for your health.
If you have Tubi and YouTube, you can watch the Plant Based News, Vegan 2020 and 2022 films, along with “They’re Trying to Kill Us” to learn more.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Wow! What a great question! Well, to start, it would be my two dogs, Alex and AJ. They are my world. They have been the rocks by my side and my co-adventurers, as we have navigated life, love, the Florida waters, and terrain.
I’m also very happy when I’m working on my passion projects, writing, producing, sharing, and giving back.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ShellyFitzpatrick.com
- Instagram: @IamShellyFitzpatrick
- Facebook: @ShellyFitzpatrickAnimalRescue
- Twitter: https://X.com/@ShellyFitzpAuth
- Youtube: @ShellyFitzpatrickProducer
- Other: https://www.imdbme/ShellyFitzpatrick
