Shelter Learniverse

Webinar - 2/11/26 - When It Happens: Disaster Response Essentials for Animal Shelters
2026-02-11 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Preparedness and Response to disasters and emergency events are inevitable in animal shelters. This session focuses on how shelter teams can lead effective preparedness and response efforts, from pre-event planning and documentation to triage, vaccination, biosecurity, and disease prevention in emergency shelters. Attendees will gain practical strategies to protect staff safety, reduce overcrowding-related disease risks, and support both animals and communities during high-stress events.
Presented by: Dr. Becca Boronat, MV, CAWA, National Shelter Medicine Veterinarian
National Shelter Medicine; Best Friends Animal Society
WEBSITE LINK: https://bestfriends-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/4717437859110/WN_iRsWQsmFS4aikwy3tfGwsg#/registration

Webinar - 2/12/26 - Modern Adoption Process - HASS
2026-02-12 11:00 - 12:00
The Modern Adoption Process offers a clear, people-first framework for transforming the adoption experience. This webinar will challenge you to rethink the way adoptions happen and inspire you to make small, intentional changes by applying proven tools that build trust, strengthen matches, and help convert more visitors into adopters—using insights from data and visitor feedback to create lasting improvements in your adoption program.
WEBSITE LINK: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_0Ti75HzXSFWNRAtPU0JTTA#/registration

Webinar - 2/12/26 - Reactivity and aggression: When fear is NOT the driver - FDSA (fee applies)
2026-02-12 15:00 - 16:00
Reactive and aggressive behaviors in dogs are often explained almost exclusively through the lens of fear. While fear-based reactivity and aggression is real and important to understand, it is not the only pathway that leads to responses such as barking, lunging, charging, running fence lines, growling, snapping, or biting. Many dogs display intense, persistent, or confrontational behaviors for reasons that are not rooted in fear, and applying a fear-based framework in these cases can result in the implementation of ineffective training strategies, unfair expectations, limited progress, and frustration for both dogs and their humans. This webinar explores aggression and reactivity in dogs when fear is not the primary driver. We will examine behaviors that are preference-driven, innately reinforcing, and/or shaped by genetic selection, including alerting behaviors, guarding and territorial responses, prey-driven and movement-triggered reactions, genetic intolerance of other dogs, and autonomy-based intolerance of handling or personal space violations. We will also address excitement-driven behaviors and clarify how positive valence high arousal can shift into frustration and redirected aggression when access to a desired outcome is blocked. A key focus of this webinar is understanding why some dogs find behaviors such as barking, posturing, chasing, or engaging in altercations, intrinsically reinforcing, and why performing alternative behaviors can require significant mental effort even when those skills are well trained. We will discuss how behavior becomes habitual through repetition, how reinforcement history shapes responses, and why not all intense behavior reflects emotional dysregulation. We will discuss how to distinguish between fear-based responses, preference-driven fixation, intense frustration, and boundary-driven intolerance, and why these distinctions matter when choosing training and management strategies. Topics include ethical use of interruption, the role of structure and trained alternative behaviors, realistic expectations around tolerance versus enjoyment, the importance of meeting innate needs through appropriate outlets, and the added complexity of working within multi-dog households where arousal and behavior can rapidly escalate. This webinar is designed for anyone wanting a clearer, more nuanced framework for understanding complex behaviors. The emphasis throughout is on safety, fairness, and practical strategies that are effective while respecting both canine needs and real-world constraints.
Presenter: Sharon Carroll
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com/index.php/self-study/webinars

Webinar - 2/19/26 - Whiskers and Welfare: New Legislation & Collaborative Animal Disaster Response - CalAnimals
2026-02-19 11:00 - 12:30
Disaster Preparedness and Response is becoming too familiar in California. What should local jurisdictions do to prepare and respond to a disaster in their area? What partners are available within your area, region, or state? Join CalAnimals, CVET, & CalCART to discuss the collaborative efforts during Animal Disaster Response.
Presenters
Ashley Patterson, DVM – CVET
Claudia Sonder, DVM – Napa CART
Ryan Soulsby, RVT, CACO – CalAnimals
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.calanimals.org/on

Webinar - 2/24/26 - Hacking the Learning Brain: The Neuroscience of Objective Feedback - PPG (fee applies)
2026-02-24 12:00 - 13:00
As behavior professionals, we are experts at reading animal body language and marking precise behaviors. However, when it comes to coaching the humans at the other end of the leash, communication often becomes subjective, emotional, or overwhelming. Whether you are correcting a client’s leash handling, mentoring a junior trainer, or receiving feedback from a colleague, the way information is exchanged determines whether the learner shuts down or levels up.
This webinar dives into the neuroscience of communication using the SCARF Model to explain why feedback can feel like a threat and how to transform it into a powerful “behavior tool.” You will learn practical, field-tested techniques like the “Micro-Yes” to gain consent, strategies for layering feedback to prevent cognitive overload, and methods for reframing critiques into objective data. We will also explore how to empower students through self-assessment, turning them into active participants in their own learning journey.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this session, attendees will be able to:

Define Feedback as a Behavioral Antecedent: Understand how feedback functions as a tool to shape human behavior, much like markers shape animal behavior.
Apply the SCARF Model to Client Coaching: Identify the five social domains (Status, Certainty, Autonomy, Relatedness, Fairness) to minimize “threat responses” and keep clients in a learning state.
Utilize Consent-Based Communication: Implement the “Micro-Yes” technique to gain learner buy-in before offering corrections or advice.
Execute Layered Feedback Protocols: Prioritize and deliver feedback in “layers” (Safety → Core Mechanics → Refinement) to avoid “lumping” and learner shutdown.
Reframe Subjective Criticism into Objective Data: Use the “Video Camera Rule” to translate emotional or vague labels into observable, actionable behavioral facts.
Facilitate Student Self-Reflection: Utilize specific questioning techniques to help clients and students assess their own performance, building their confidence and autonomy.

Presenter – Niki Tudge
CEUs: PPAB 1.5, PMCT 1.5, CCPDT 1.5, KPA 1.5, IAABC 1.5
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.petprofessionalguild.com/webinars-events/webinars/hacking-the-learning-brain-the-neuroscience-of-objective-feedback/

Webinar - 2/25/26 - Rethinking Rabbits: Integrating the New Shelter Housing Guidelines - UC Davis KSMP
2026-02-25 12:00 - 13:30
Rabbits are the new kids on the block: Most animal shelters weren’t designed with this sensitive, recently-domesticated species in mind. A shelter stay can spike stress both for bunnies and the teams challenged with meeting their needs.
The first-ever Association of Shelter Veterinarians (ASV) Guidelines for Humane Rabbit Housing in Animal Shelters is here to help. Join Drs. Kate Hurley, Chumkee Aziz, Zarah Hedge, and Jonna Swanson for a conversation on applying these new standards—developed by nearly two and shelter medicine experts—to your everyday shelter scenarios.
These experts will break down:

The why behind the recommendations and how they bridged data gaps
The highest-impact recommendations to focus on first
Solutions for common shelter challenges
Doable first steps for shelters with limited budgets and small teams

Download a flyer to share with your team. Approved for 1.5 hours of continuing education credit by RACE, CAWA, and NACA. Can’t make it live? Register to receive the recording and resources after the event.
WEBSITE LINK: https://sheltermedicine.zoom.us/webinar/register/9517698054361/WN_lR7e6d6mQEWslkifsxZfyw

Webinar - 2/25/26 - Starting Strong: How to Perform a Kitten Intake Exam - National Kitten Coalition
2026-02-25 16:30 - 17:00
Welcome kittens with confidence – join us for a 30‑minute webinar on the essentials of intake exams.
Dr. Emily Coleman, DVM, Executive Director of The National Kitten Coalition, will guide you step‑by‑step through how to perform a kitten intake exam. Designed for rescue and shelter staff, as well as fosters and caregivers, this session covers what to look for during intake, how to spot potential health concerns, and the importance of documenting baseline stats to track changes over time.
You will gain simple, practical strategies to build confidence in monitoring kitten health, along with ready‑to‑use intake and tracking materials to support your caregiving journey. The webinar concludes with a brief Q&A, giving you the chance to get your questions answered and leave prepared to welcome kittens safely and successfully. When you register, you will also have the opportunity to submit your questions in advance—helping us ensure the session covers the topics most important to you.
Presenter: Emily A. Coleman, DMV
WEBSITE LINK: https://kittencoalition.org/event/starting-strong-how-to-perform-a-kitten-intake-exam/

Webinar - 2/26/26 - Dental Health for Dogs and Cats: Signs, Treatment, and At-Home Care - Schwarzman Animal Medical Center
2026-02-26 15:00 - 16:00
February is National Pet Dental Health Month, highlighting the importance of dental care for your pet’s overall health. Dental disease is common in both dogs and cats and, if left untreated, can cause pain, tooth loss, and infection that can affect the entire body.
Join us on Thursday, February 26th at 6PM ET on Zoom as Dr. Brad Cingolani, Resident Veterinarian in Dentistry and Oral Surgery at AMC, discusses common dental conditions in dogs and cats. He will discuss signs that may indicate a problem, explain what to expect from a veterinary dental exam and treatment, and share practical steps pet owners can take at home to promote healthier teeth and gums.
This is a free, online-only event hosted via Zoom. The Zoom link will be emailed to all registered participants the day of the event. REGISTER TODAY. Please email UsdanInstitute@amcny.org with any questions.
Please note: This webinar is intended for pet owners and is not eligible for CE credit.
WEBSITE LINK: https://app.glueup.com/event/dental-health-for-dogs-and-cats-signs-treatment-and-at-home-care-166531/

Webinar - 3/3/26 - From Enforcement to Engagement: Community Support Services in Animal Control - NACA/Justice Clearinghouse
2026-03-03 12:00 - 13:15
When it comes to animal welfare, the real game-changer isn’t more enforcement—it’s more engagement. While rules and regulations may compel compliance, they can also lead to resistance and disconnect. An engagement-based approach shifts the focus to building relationships, empowering individuals, and fostering community collaboration—leading to stronger, more sustainable outcomes.
Through real-world case studies and examples, you’ll gain a practical roadmap for applying this approach to improve stray management and public health. Expect a candid look at both the benefits and the challenges—and strategies to make it work in your community.
This webinar has been certified by the National Animal Care & Control Association and is approved for 1 Continuing Education Unit.
Presenter: Dr. Christina Avila
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.justiceclearinghouse.com/webinar/shifting-the-paradigm-from-enforcement-to-engagement-providing-community-support-services-as-an-animal-control-agency/

Online Course – 3/7/26 – Neighborhood Cats TNR Certification Workshop – Community Cats Podcast (small fee applies)
2026-03-07 11:00 - 13:45
Ready to make a difference for feral and stray cats in your community? Join our expert instructors to learn the best practices for Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) and effective colony management. You’ll learn what TNR is, why it works, and how to address common challenges such as communicating with neighbors, preparing for trapping, conducting large-scale trapping operations, feeding, and providing winter shelter.
If you’re new to TNR, you’ll gain the essential skills needed to kickstart your TNR journey, while experienced trappers can refresh and sharpen their techniques.
Take advantage of the interactive format, extensive handouts, and real-life video footage from actual projects. Attendees will receive a certificate of attendance and access to a dedicated Facebook group for ongoing networking with fellow TNR advocates.
Led by experts from Neighborhood Cats, this 2.75-hour session includes an 15-minute Q&A. Registration is just $10.
This course/webinar/series/conference has been approved for Continuing Educational Units by the National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA). National certificate holders can submit for credit consistent with the NACA CEU policy located https://nacatraining.org/continuing-education-recertification/
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/events/tnr-certification-workshop-presented-by-neighborhood-cats-march-2026/
