<p>In this episode of <em>Stay Tuned: Supporting Transition Age Youth</em>, co-hosts Gillian and Mei speak with returning guest Jamie Yang about the powerful role pets can play in improving mental health and supporting community participation. Jamie shares how caring for their dog, Mendelssohn, helped create daily structure and opportunities for self-compassion during challenging periods of mental health recovery. The conversation also explores how dogs (and other pets) can encourage social interaction through daily care taking responsibilities, resulting in meaningful moments of community through everyday encounters with others. And if anything, give this episode a listen to meet Mr. Mendelssohn himself. </p><p> </p>