Shelter Learniverse

Online Event – 9/7/24 – Neighborhood Cats TNR Certification Workshop – Community Cats Podcast (small fee applies)
2024-09-07 11:00 - 13:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Are you ready to be part of the solution for feral and stray cats in your neighborhood? Our expert instructors will teach you best practices for Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) and colony management. Learn what TNR is and why it works. We’ll cover getting along with neighbors, preparations for trapping, trapping itself (including entire colonies at once), feeding, providing winter shelter, and more. Take advantage of the interactive format, extensive handouts, and video footage of actual projects. Attendees will receive a certificate of attendance and gain access to an ongoing Facebook group for networking with other TNR activists. Instructed by Susan Richmond, executive director, and Bryan Kortis, national programs director.
Session duration is 2.5 hours, followed by an optional 15-minute Q&A session.
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/the-neighborhood-cats-tnr-certification-workshop-sept-2024/

Webinar - 9/10/24 - Coping with Canines: Navigating Human Emotions with a Complex Dog - Every Dog Austin
2024-09-10 16:00 - 17:00
When you love a complex or sensitive dog, chances are you’ve experienced some emotional ups and downs along the way. You’ll walk away from this Coping with Canines webinar with concrete tools and mindset shifts rooted in counseling and mental health theories, and a deep reassurance that you’re not alone in this experience.
FREE event, donations optional!
About the Speaker: Jess Adam (she/her)
Jess Adam is a licensed professional counselor who lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, her twin boys, her 10 year old reactive pit mix Dio, and her cat named Bat. Animals and mental health are two of Jess’s passions, and she has brought them together in a unique way by creating a niche coaching business supporting dog owners and canine professionals in navigating the human side of dog training. Jess’s lived experience in managing Dio’s reactivity, along with her decade of experience as a therapist and professor of counseling, gives her a unique perspective to bring effective mental health tools and services to the dog world. Through her business Handlers & Humans, Jess offers individual coaching support to dog guardians and dog trainers, along with group support programs and online courses, all rooted in evidence-based therapeutic skills and a real-life understanding of living with a reactive dog.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.everydogaustin.org/event-details/coping-with-canines-navigating-human-emotions-with-a-complex-dog

Webinar - 9/11/24 - S.A.F.E. Method for Managing Separation Anxiety with Lynn Brearey - PPG (fee applies)
2024-09-11 09:00 - 10:00
Separation Anxiety is a family welfare problem. When dogs have separation anxiety, they cannot be at home alone, creating stress and anxiety for all concerned.
When left home alone, dogs panic and genuinely believe their guardian is not returning and that they have been deserted. As a certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT), I understand that helping dogs overcome separation anxiety employs systematic desensitization protocols. However, extensive training programs can be burdensome for some families because they can take time and financial resources.
This webinar will present a management plan for families to implement. This plan will help their dog be more comfortable at home and provide them with well-deserved freedom, a win-win situation for all.
Learning Objectives

Learn a protocol for helping families with dogs that have separation anxiety.
Understand S.A.F.E. is S – Suspend Absences A – Anticipate and Plan F – Fear Free home environment E – Enrichment needs met.
Gain ideas that lead to solutions.

WEBSITE LINK: https://www.petprofessionalguild.com/webinars-events/webinars/s-a-f-e-method-for-managing-separation-anxiety-with-lynn-brearey/

Webinar - 9/11/24 - Unresponsive Behavior: A Guide to the Evaluation and Compassionate Choices for Refractory Behavior Problems in Companion Animals - HSVMA
2024-09-11 17:00 - 18:00
Refractory behavior problems are something we have all seen in practice. These cases are often highly charged emotionally, and we know that owners who feel they have come to the end of their ability to care for a challenging pet are heartbroken and often guilt ridden. During this important webinar we will consider how to evaluate these cases.
Ruling out medical reasons for behavior issues and referring to professional experienced behaviorists before euthanasia is important, however it is not the focus on this particular webinar.
Learning Objectives:

To be able to assess a case for non-responsiveness to medication and behavior modification. Safety of the people and other animals in the environment, welfare of the patient and others will be considered.

To be able to assess quality of life levels for the patient, the family and other animals, and realistic recognition of the long-term commitment of finances, time and emotion to constantly manage these cases.

To understand behavior is controlled by an organ, the brain –Dr Foote will review MRI research evidence on the functional difference of the brain of aggressive animals compared to normally socialized animals.

We will discuss why screening referral sources for safe, compassionate BE is needed. If the primary care veterinary team is not willing or capable of performing the service, how can they make a responsible referral to a shelter prepared for euthanasia of behavior cases, a different general practice or arrange for home euthanasia DVM.
To remove the high emotions and opinion surrounding euthanasia for behavior and provide support for the staff and family involved in these cases.
Understand how the veterinary community can work with the shelter, behaviorist, trainer, and breeder community to reduce the incidence of BE.

Presented by: Sally J. Foote, DVM, CABC-IAABC, LSHC-S, FFE
WEBSITE LINK: https://hsvma.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Uf9e87SeRPSF3srBS5FVUA#/registration

Webinar – 9/12/24 – DPFL’s Approach to On-Leash Reactivity – Dogs Playing for Life (fee applies)
2024-09-12 09:00 - 11:30
Reactivity on the part of dogs living in shelters is a rampant issue that can contribute to behavioral deterioration, increased length of stay, and even loss of life. From a misdiagnosis of “aggression” to dogs whose reactive behavior escalates to problematic and potentially unsafe levels, learning how to help dogs suffering from reactivity issues is a crucial need shared by our entire industry.
While this webinar can be attended as a standalone course, we will build on our Fancy Footwork approach to handling and training to offer practical training, handling, and safety solutions to on-leash reactivity for dogs living in shelters.
This is a 2-hour presentation followed by a 30 min Q&A session. This webinar costs $20 and you will receive the recording the next day.
WEBSITE LINK: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xqFMgom-SKucZfHQsGwJIg#/registration

Webinar - 9/12/24 - Maddie’s Insights: Aligning Programs with Community Needs to Support Companion Dog Retention - Maddie's Fund
2024-09-12 12:00 - 13:00
Join us for a brand-new season of Maddie’s Insights: Practical tips based on current research to help pets and people.
On September 12, 2024 our guest is Seana Dowling-Guyer, MS. She is the Associate Director for the Center for Shelter Dogs at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University.
Animal sheltering has evolved to focus on community-based services as much as in-shelter care. The philosophy that animal sheltering begins and ends within the community through various support programs is gaining traction. These programs, ranging from food banks and training classes to veterinary services, aim to support pet guardianship and retention in the home. However, there’s often a mismatch between the programs offered and the actual needs of the community. In this session, Seana will share research on pre-COVID retention programs focused on companion dogs offered by US animal sheltering organizations, highlighting gaps between these programs and community needs. She will outline a strategic decision-making process for selecting community programs to support pets in homes and discuss different program options.
In this session, attendees will:

Learn about common retention programs focused on companion dogs offered by US shelters and identify gaps between available programs and community needs
Become familiar with a strategic decision-making process that can be used when developing and evaluating community programs that support pets in homes

Can’t attend live? Register anyway and you will get a link to the recording.
These webinars have been pre-approved for 1.0 Certified Animal Welfare Administrator continuing education credits by The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement and by the National Animal Care & Control Association. They have also been submitted for approval for 1 hour of continuing education credit in jurisdictions which recognize the Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE) approval.
About the Speaker
Seana Dowling-Guyer is the Associate Director of Tufts Collaborative (Center) for Shelter Dogs at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University and teaches in the M.S. in Animals and Public Policy program. Seana is interested in the intersection of animal behavior and people’s perceptions of that behavior, particularly how our attitudes and knowledge of animal behavior impact animal welfare and behavior. Her research examines how to improve the welfare of dogs in shelters and support dogs and other companion animals in the home and community. She also investigates trends in animal sheltering. A long-time cat parent, Seana now takes care of four crazy ferrets while her daughter is away at college.
WEBSITE LINK: https://maddies.fund/MIwebcastsRegister

Webinar - 9/16/24 - Northern Tier Shelter Initiative Zoomies: Ideal Age for Spay Neuter in Dogs & Cats - ASPCAPro
2024-09-16 14:00 - 15:00
The debate over when to recommend sterilization in pet dogs and cats has been under increased scrutiny over the past 5-10 years. With some veterinary professionals promoting pediatric spay/neuter and others recommending waiting or foregoing sterilization altogether for some breeds, how should we base our decisions and recommendations? This case-based discussion covers the critical evaluation of recent studies on the ideal age for spaying and neutering dogs and cats, specific variables that impact timing considerations, and comparisons of some of the risks and benefits of early spay/neuter surgery.
Takeaways

Identify specific variables that impact the appropriate timing of spay/neuter surgery.
Work through critical evaluations of recent studies on the timing of spay/neuter surgery.
Compare risks and benefits of early age spay/neuter.

Suited For
This session is suited for anyone who is faced with the question of when to spay or neuter.
Credits
This session has been approved for 1hr of RACE credit for veterinarians and veterinary technicians.
Presenter: Dr. Lauren Blackwelder, Veterinarian, ASNA Training, ASPCA Spay Neuter Alliance (ASNA)
Dr. Lauren Blackwelder is a Veterinary Training Instructor at the ASPCA Spay/Neuter Alliance (ASNA). After graduating from the University of Florida in 2013, she worked in shelter medicine and high-quality, high-volume spay and neuter (HQHVSN) clinics in Virginia and Florida before joining ASNA in 2021. Dr. Blackwelder is human-animal bond certified and received a graduate certificate in shelter medicine from the University of Florida. Her role in teaching veterinarians and veterinary students efficient surgical skills contributes to improved animal welfare through HQHVSN efforts worldwide. She lives in Asheville, N.C., with her husband, two children, dog, cats, and fish.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.aspcapro.org/training/webinar/northern-tier-shelter-initiative-zoomies-ideal-age-spay-neuter-dogs-cats

Webinar - 9/17/24 - Past, Present, & Future of Animal Welfare with HASS - HASS
2024-09-17 15:00 - 16:00
Since 2020, the animal welfare industry has faced an increase of challenges unlike ever before. From overfilled kennels and a lack of municipal support to increased needs for mental health support in the workplace—and a decrease in community engagement. What is needed is a fresh, human-services-rooted perspective that rallies municipal and community support with ease. In this webinar, Dr. Ellen Jefferson, President & CEO of Austin Pets Alive!, will present where we’ve been and the future of the animal welfare industry through a new model approach piloted by the HASS community.
WEBSITE LINK: https://bit.ly/3zhiarN

Webinar - 9/17/24 - Providing Vaccines and Other Preventative Care to Shelter Animals the Fear Free Way - Fear Free
2024-09-17 17:00 - 18:00
The shelter experience is unfortunately stressful for many pets. Essential wellness care, such as vaccines, deworming, and parasite prevention, can add to an animal’s fear, anxiety, and stress. By using Fear Free methods, shelter teams can minimize this stress with little to no additional time.Join us September 17, at 8 p.m. ET, with Fear Free Certified® Veterinarian Dr. Meghan Herron, DVM, DACVB, as she discusses Fear Free methods for wellness care that can lessen the burden on shelter pets.During this webinar, we will learn:

How to administer vaccines in a way that minimizes fear, anxiety, and stress
How low-volume and orally administered vaccines can lead to a lower-stress experience
How to use desensitization and counterconditioning for patients who don’t accept injections

This webinar is RACE-approved for 1 CE hour and will be recorded.
WEBSITE LINK: https://fearfreellc.webinargeek.com/providing-vaccines-and-other-preventive-care-to-shelter-animals-the-fear-free-way-1

Webinar – 9/18/24 – Stranger Danger! Advocating for and Advancing Your Human-Reactive Dogs – Dogs Playing for Life (fee applies)
2024-09-18 09:00 - 11:30
At DPFL’s Stranger Danger webinar, you will learn how to work with dogs that are wary of strangers by building their confidence and helping them to develop the skills to meet new people (and potential adopters) happily and successfully! Even for the private dog trainer or dog owner, the skills taught in this webinar will help support your stranger danger dog to expand their comfort level when meeting new people at home!
This webinar will demonstrate:

DPFL’s Assess and Progress approach: fluttering between assessing and influencing behavior to determine how a dog might respond WITHOUT proper human support to determine what training is necessary for successful placement
Comprehensive Tool Selection: determining what tool will best support the dog while keeping the handler and others safe during the learning process
Principles vs. Methods: determining what approach will teach the dog as efficiently and effectively as possible
Creative Proofing: conducting training with the goal of solid generalization of new skills so that dogs are able to work for multiple handlers with clarity and confidence

Come learn how to safely and effectively reach this segment of the canine population through in-depth behavior analysis, dynamic video examples, and practical approaches designed for anyone who is trying to find solutions for the dogs who need this extra human support. This is a 2-hour presentation followed by approximately 30 minutes of Q&A. This webinar is scheduled on EASTERN TIME. Following the webinar, attendees will receive an email with the webinar recording.
WEBSITE LINK: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_I_zFinz6RWC1IUeSxCY7wA#/registration

Webinar - 9/19/24 - Frustration Elicited Aggression: what is it, how it occurs and how to stop it with Shannon Riley - PPG (fee applies)
2024-09-19 08:30 - 09:30
Frustration Elicited aggression can occur in all animals, including humans. When a learner or teacher gets frustrated, they can begin to act out with aggressive behaviors. This could be a puppy that begins to nip at the person training them, a horse that kicks, a macaw that will bite or a human that hits.
Frustration usually occurs when the learner is not understanding or the teacher/ trainer gets “stuck” and is not sure how to proceed with training.
Since every human and animal is unique, we must look at how the individual is understanding what is expected. A puppy may be confused by what we are trying to teach or the teacher may not know how to “fix” a problem in a way that the learner understands it. Understanding frustration elicited aggression can not only help the learner learn and the teacher teach, it can also help improve the bond between the human and the animal.
Learning Objectives

What is Frustration Elicited Aggression?
What causes it?
Who is affected by it?
Why is it important to understand frustration elicited aggression?
What can be done to prevent it?
How understanding it can help reduce stress in training (for the human and animal)

WEBSITE LINK: https://www.petprofessionalguild.com/webinars-events/webinars/frustration-elicited-aggression-what-is-it-how-it-occurs-and-how-to-stop-it-with-shannon-riley/

Webinar - 9/19/24 - Embracing Proactive and Progressive Practices: Balancing the Letter and Spirit of the Law in Animal Control - NACA/Justice Clearinghouse
2024-09-19 12:00 - 13:15
In this engaging presentation, we delve into the nuanced concept of the “Letter of the Law vs Spirit of the Law” as it pertains to animal care and control practices. Addressing a crucial aspect of the profession, we explore the delicate balance between enforcing regulations strictly by their written word and interpreting them with empathy and foresight. By emphasizing proactive and progressive measures over punitive actions, we equip animal control officers with the tools to navigate complex situations effectively.
Drawing on real-life scenarios and case studies, we’ll examine the benefits of approaching enforcement with a holistic understanding of animal welfare and community needs. By fostering compassion-driven interventions, this session empowers officers to make informed decisions that prioritize both legal compliance and the well-being of animals and communities alike, one that honors the spirit of the law while upholding its letter.
This webinar has been certified by the National Animal Care & Control Association and is approved for 1 Continuing Education Unit. Please refer to your NACA membership portal for current CEU submission process. Current NACA Members who attend the live presentation or watch the recording will be able to download a jointly issued attendance certificate that includes the National Animal Care & Control Association logo. Visit the NACA training page for a complete list of future trainings.
This webinar has been pre-approved by the Maine Animal Welfare Program for 1 Continuing Education Unit for the State of Maine’s ACO annual training. You can find more information about Certification, required annual training or submitting materials for credit at Maine’s Animal Control Officer Resource Page.
Presenter:
Spencer Conover has dedicated his life to innovative, servant leadership at some of the top animal welfare organizations across the country including, the Dumb Friends League, Best Friends Animal Society, the Humane Society of Utah, and Pasco County Animal Services. He is passionate about leadership development and surrounding himself with other lifesaving individuals. Spencer has a Master of Interdisciplinary Studies in Contemporary Animal Services Leadership and Leadership Studies. He is a certified green belt in lean six sigma process improvement. Spencer has had the pleasure to lead various shelter operations teams including animal control, adoption, intake, customer care, foster care, volunteer, education/outreach, transfer/rescue, and animal behavior. He is an animal control officer, CPR, and humane euthanasia certified with training in dangerous/fractious animal handling. Spencer has a passion for shelter operation, statistics, data-driven decision-making, and innovative, life-saving community-based programs.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.justiceclearinghouse.com/webinar/embracing-proactive-and-progressive-practices-balancing-the-letter-and-spirit-of-the-law-in-animal-control/

Webinar - 9/21/24 - Return-to-Field: Saving the Lives of Community Cats - Community Cats Podcast
2024-09-21 11:00 - 13:00
It used to be that a feral cat had little chance of exiting a shelter alive after he entered. But that’s no longer the case. In recent years, more and more shelters have adopted Return-to-Field (RTF) programs. Instead of euthanizing healthy community cats (whether feral, friendly or otherwise), the shelter will spay or neuter, eartip and vaccinate, then return the cat back to where he was found. We’ll cover the policies behind RTF, the mechanics of implementing the program, current controversies over the RTF of friendly cats, and how to combine RTF with TNR in general to lower cat populations and create sustainability.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/events/return-to-field-saving-the-lives-of-community-cats-presented-by-neighborhood-cats-sept-2024/

Webinar - 9/25/24 - For Dog's sake, can you stop that? Canine-Friendly Body Language Improvements for Humans - Dogs Playing for Life (fee applies)
2024-09-25 09:00 - 11:30
Dogs are resilient and oh-so-forgiving! These qualities make them endearing as companions, along with their ability to love unconditionally. So, why do some dogs struggle to understand us when we are offering affection or when we want to help them, not harm them? In this session, we will focus on the HUMAN handling that contributes to unwanted behavior, even “aggression”. Get ready to rethink your approach as we reveal the common and widely accepted and taught handling errors that set dogs up for failure. Through extensive video examples, we will demonstrate alternative handling techniques that help dogs to trust and thrive!
This webinar will demonstrate:
– Examples of handling that causes negative behavior compared to handling that promotes desired behavior
– Demonstration of handling that induces trust and learning with dogs that are too afraid to respond initially to food rewards or affection
– Comprehensive discussion around the correct use of pressure and release and why this is a critical skill for shelter canine handlers to master to save more dogs
This is a 2-hour presentation followed by a 30 min Q&A session. This webinar costs $20 and you will receive the recording the next day.
WEBSITE LINK: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_4bcg2hn4TGGXti0SZvCoCw#/registration

Webinar - 9/25/24 - The Future of Post-Adoption Support - University of Florida Maddie's Shelter Medicine Program
2024-09-25 10:00 - 11:00
Are you an animal welfare professional looking to enhance your organization’s post-adoption support? Could your return rates for adoptions decrease if your adopters could get real-time answers to the most common settling-in issues for a new pet?
Petszel can lighten this load for you. Join us for a webinar to explore how Petszel can help your organization make more adoptions stick and see examples from other shelters that are using this app.
Date: September 25, 2024, 1:00 pm ET
Title: The Future of Post-Adoption Support
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_NqcIQaHWTA2wvA_vY2Angw
This new app developed by shelter directors and veterinarians works with your existing software to trickle tailored content delivered at the right time to new adopters. Automated post-adoption engagement and adopter check-in surveys delivered to your inbox let you know if issues are developing, giving your team time to help before a return occurs.
Petszel is free for shelters and rescues. Direct connection to PetPoint, Shelterluv, and ShelterBuddy (Chameleon coming soon!) reduces staff time and can even transfer medical records to the pet’s new veterinarian to improve continuity of care.
WEBSITE LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_NqcIQaHWTA2wvA_vY2Angw

Webinar - 9/26/24 - From Horror to Hope: An Anti-Puppy Mill Advocate’s Eye-Opening Journey Inside of USDA Kennels - Life of Riley at Spring Point
2024-09-26 11:00 - 12:00
Speakers:

Mindi Callison, Founder and Executive Director of Bailing out Benji
Alexis Bell, Research Analyst Bailing out Benji

Mindi and Alexis have devoted their lives to ending puppy mill cruelty and Bailing Out Benji is widely known as a powerful and tireless advocate for the dogs on these facilities. Through their examination of inspection records and images from licensed dog breeding facilities, they have uncovered and exposed cruelty and played critical roles in shutting down bad facilities and passing animal protection legislation. Earlier this year, members of Bailing Out Benji were given intimate access inside USDA kennels in the Midwest: they were allowed to see every inch of these facilities, touch everything (including dogs!) and had all their questions answered by the kennel owners.
Join Mindi and Alexis for a conversation about their experience and hear why animal advocates can be hopeful about changes that are happening within the industry.
WEBSITE LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYvdO-qqTwsE9cLZ_pIAXRc8lpwnlI00ijf#/registration

Webinar - 9/26/24 - Shelter Behavior Roundtable: Tracking Behavioral Observations in Shelter Animals - ASPCAPro
2024-09-26 12:00 - 13:00
Join us for an insightful session that will help you enhance your organization’s methods for collecting and utilizing behavioral observations in shelter animals. Our expert panelists will examine a mock behavioral communications flowchart and share valuable, practical tips to help you evaluate your shelter’s behavioral communication processes. You’ll walk away knowing how to implement small changes that can significantly improve the behavioral health of shelter animals.
Takeaways

Learn tips and tools for assessing your current system
Understand the important role of integrated care in behavioral health

Suited For
This webinar is best suited for animal behavior professionals, shelter professionals, and shelter volunteers.
Credits
This webinar has been submitted for CCPDT credit and is pending approval.
Presenters
Elise Gingrich DVM, MPH, MS, DACVPM, DABVP (Shelter Medicine Practice), Senior Director, Shelter Medicine Shelter Services, ASPCA
K.C. Thompson, Shelter Operations Manager, Humane Society of Charlotte
Katie Donohue, Associate Director of Behavior Services – Adoption Centers CBCC-KA
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.aspcapro.org/training/webinar/shelter-behavior-roundtable-tracking-behavioral-observations-shelter-animals

Webinar - 9/27/24 - Bridging the Gap: How VPAs Can Revolutionize Veterinary Care - United Spay Alliance
2024-09-27 11:00 - 12:00
Are you ready to learn about a game-changing opportunity in veterinary care?
Join us for a FREE webinar, “Bridging the Gap: How VPAs Can Revolutionize Veterinary Care,” featuring expert Dr. Bob Murtaugh, where we’ll dive into the exciting push for the Veterinary Professional Associate (VPA) position. This new role is set to enhance and support the veterinary profession, offering solutions to both current and future challenges.
In this session, you will:

Discover how the VPA role addresses veterinary provider needs.
Learn how practitioners can promote growth and improve access to care.
Gain practical insights on how YOU can help bring this role to life.

This webinar is designed with you in mind—whether you’re a veterinary professional, animal lover, or simply curious about the future of veterinary care. The entire session will be Q&A format, allowing you to engage directly with Dr. Murtaugh and ask your most pressing questions throughout the discussion.
📅 Date & Time: Friday, September 27th from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM ET
📍 Location: Online
🎟️ Cost: FREE!
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to shape the future of veterinary care! Reserve your spot now and be part of this exciting discussion. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at info@unitedspayalliance.org
REGISTER TODAY: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/5968507998059028570

Webinar – 10/4/24 – DPFL Playgroups: The Why, the What, and the How – Dogs Playing for Life
2024-10-04 08:00 - 11:30
Learn about all the ways in which DPFL Playgroups are transforming shelters all across the country! This webinar (formerly offered in three parts) will cover the Why, the What, and the How of playgroups. Attendees will be introduced to dynamic video examples and impactful data and experiences from some of the over 350 shelters who have embraced the power of letting shelter dogs play! This is a 3.5-hour presentation with Q&A at intervals throughout. This webinar will not be recorded. This course has been pre-approved for 3 continuing education unit (CEU) credits for Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) by The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement (AAWA) and by the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP).
WEBSITE LINK: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_zlBqbWQpRtmPrZExC3_tzA#/registration

Webinar - 10/9/24 - How to Help Fearful Dogs Feel Safe with Dr. Zazie Todd - PPG (fee applies)
2024-10-09 14:00 - 15:00
Almost three-quarters of dogs have some kind of canine anxiety, according to research. This talk is an overview of how to help fearful dogs, starting with recognizing the signs of fear and helping the dog to feel safe. We’ll look at the prevalence of fears in dogs, the kinds of fears that are most common, and some of the specific steps that can be taken to protect fearful dogs.
Management is important for several reasons. We’ll also look at the role of the dog’s attachment to their guardian, why it’s so important to work at the dog’s pace and not make them face their fears, and which techniques work best with fearful and anxious dogs. We’ll also talk about how to evaluate and prioritize the changes that will be most important in an individual case.
Learning Objectives

Appreciate the importance of choices and routine (including how to cope with changes)
Describe the secure base effect and understand what attachment to the guardian means for a fearful dog
Evaluate the changes that will be most beneficial for a fearful dog, including the role of management
Recognize tools, approaches, and actions that are detrimental for a fearful dog, and help clients choose (and stick to) alternate approaches.

WEBSITE LINK: https://www.petprofessionalguild.com/webinars-events/webinars/how-to-help-fearful-dogs-feel-safe-with-dr-zazie-todd/

Webinar - 10/10/24 - Disaster Response Technology: Shelterly & Petco Love Lost - CalAnimals
2024-10-10 10:00 - 11:00
Responding effectively during disasters involves careful allocation of resources and information management. With ever increasing frequency and intensity of disaster events, many organizations find themselves thinly stretched during responses. Utilizing technology is critical for ensuring animals get tracked throughout incidents and get back to their people whenever possible.
Shelterly and Petco Love Lost are the leading software tools designed to facilitate disaster response and recovery. Join us for this important session to learn about how Shelterly can help you track, manage, and care for animals during disaster incidents and how the use of Petco Love Lost can effectively support reunification.
Presenters:
Aaron Klein, Petco Love Lost
Abbie Moore, Petco Love Lost
John Peaveler, Humane Innovations
Trevor Skaggs, Shelterly
WEBSITE LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_I_2PEWcqRlGQnjCVeBjIsg#/registration

Webinar - 10/10/24 - Maddie’s Insights: Behavioral Euthanasia: Just the Facts! - Maddie's Fund
2024-10-10 12:00 - 13:00
Maddie’s® Insights is our ongoing webcast series with practical tips based on current research to help pets and people. In October, Miranda Hitchcock, MS, CDBC, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA will be discussing factors associated with behavioral euthanasia in pet dogs.
Behavioral euthanasia is a sensitive topic with a wide variety of personal thoughts and emotions. But what do we actually know about it? How often does it happen, and why? Do we have data we can use to make decisions? Where can we turn for information? This talk will walk you through the existing (and pending!) research on behavioral euthanasia to help us separate fact from fiction. There will be time for your questions.
Register here: https://maddies.fund/MIwebcastsRegister

What you’ll come away with:

An understanding of the history of research on behavioral euthanasia and the gaps
A summary of the 2024 paper “Factors Associated with Behavioral Euthanasia in Pet Dogs” and learn about the methods used (and why)
The types of behaviors that led to euthanasia in this study, and the information we can (and can’t) use from it to make decisions
The main findings of the study, including pieces that agree or disagree with previous literature
The limitations of research like this, and the potential for future study
Takeaways for pet professionals based on this research and resources available for folks in this situation

Can’t attend live? Register anyway and you will get a link to the recording after the webcast.
This webinar has been pre-approved for 1.0 Certified Animal Welfare Administrator continuing education credits by The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement and by the National Animal Care & Control Association. It has also been approved for 1 hour of continuing education credit in jurisdictions which recognize the Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE) approval.
Maddie’s Pet Forum discussion thread https://maddies.fund/MIwebcastBehavioralEuthanasia
About Guest Speaker: Miranda Hitchcock (she/her), MS Applied Animal Behavior, CDBC, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, Fear Free Certified
Miranda is the co-founder and executive director of Every Dog Behavior and Training, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing inclusive, accessible dog training and behavior resources.
She began working with dogs as a volunteer at an animal shelter and fell down the rabbit hole of behavior. She moved to Austin for a Maddie’s Executive Leadership Fellowship with two of Austin’s shelters before becoming the operations manager at the municipal animal shelter.
Miranda left sheltering to found Every Dog in 2019, taking her behavior and leadership expertise to the nonprofit world. She is a certified dog trainer and multi-certified dog behavior consultant. She holds a master’s degree in applied animal Behavior and Welfare from Virginia Tech. In 2024, her first research paper on behavioral euthanasia was published in the journal Frontiers of Veterinary Science.
When not working, Miranda loves rock climbing, listening to fantasy audiobooks, and snuggling with her pittie, Nina.
WEBSITE LINK: https://maddies.fund/MIwebcastsRegister

Webinar - 10/10/24 - Americans with Disabilities Act and Service Animals in Field Services - NACA/Justice Clearinghouse
2024-10-10 12:00 - 13:15
Service animals provide assistance to many people across this country. So how do you know if an animal is a service animal? What do you do if the animal is or isn’t a service animal? These are questions facing Animal Control Officers and others every day.
Navigating the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) can be a very difficult task and it is important that we protect the rights of the disabled while also being cognisant that there might be those who are claiming the use of a service animal incorrectly. This webinar will give you the tools to understand and provide protections afforded under the ADA while also giving you tools to approach those who are using the term “service animal” incorrectly.
Want to prepare for this webinar? The webinar, From Guide Dogs to Therapy Squirrels: The Americans with Disabilities Act and Animal Welfare Professionals, will be freely available on the JCH YouTube channel until Oct 11, 2024. Hit the bell icon on the JCH YouTube channel page to receive notifications of our latest video releases.
This webinar has been certified by the National Animal Care & Control Association and is approved for 1 Continuing Education Unit. Please refer to your NACA membership portal for current CEU submission process. Current NACA Members who attend the live presentation or watch the recording will be able to download a jointly issued attendance certificate that includes the National Animal Care & Control Association logo. Visit the NACA training page for a complete list of future trainings.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.justiceclearinghouse.com/webinar/americans-with-disabilities-act-and-service-animals-in-field-services/

Webinar - 10/16/24 - Northern Tier Shelter Initiative Zoomies: Contracts, Compensation and Collaboration - ASPCAPro
2024-10-16 12:00 - 13:00
Join us for an insightful session in collaboration with the University of Wisconsin Shelter Medicine Program that will help your agency navigate the complexities of contracting for animal sheltering services. Our panelists will discuss the necessities of developing contracts with local governments, outline essential steps to build collaborative relationships with key government stakeholders and explore ways to demonstrate the need for adequate compensation for these valuable services.
Takeaways

The essentials for building and maintaining collaborative relationships with key government stakeholders
Key elements to include and what to avoid in contract negotiations for animal sheltering services
Pros and cons of various contractual models

Suited for:
This session is best suited for animal welfare leaders and staff as well as local governments that contract for animal sheltering services.
Speakers:

Triniti Halverson, CAWA, Executive Director of Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter
Megan Dennis, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at the Humane Society for Southwest Washington
Kate Meghji, Chief Operating Officer at Humane Rescue Alliance
Julianna Tetlow, Senior Director of Government Relations at the San Diego Humane Society & Civic Alliance Solutions
The University of Wisconsin Shelter Medicine Program

WEBSITE LINK: https://www.aspcapro.org/training/webinar/ntsi-zoomies-contracts-compensation-collaboration-how-build-animal-sheltering

Webinar - 10/17/24 - Better Outcomes: Harnessing Narrative Change to Transform Animal Welfare - CalAnimals
2024-10-17 10:00 - 11:00
Pets rely on people, making human connections crucial to improving their lives. The problem is our stories and messages often undermine our best efforts. For decades mainstream narratives have been villainizing, blaming, and shaming pet owners, community members, and other animal welfare advocates. Stories and messages have failed to describe the root causes of issues. The result is that precious energy and resources go to faulty strategies and infighting. Pet families are separated, and animals go without the care they need. In this webinar we explore how better stories and messages can help us overcome these challenges and help us focus on doing our best work for pets and people together.
Presenter:
Hanna Lentz, Executive Director
Supporting People and Animal Relationships for Change (SPARC)
WEBSITE LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OoMWeOsuSYia2DrFCVvijw#/registration

Webinar - 10/23/24 - Counter-conditioning for Fearful and Anxious Dogs: How to Get it Right with Dr. Zazie Todd - PPG (fee applies)
2024-10-23 14:00 - 15:00
When a dog is frightened, we often make use of classical conditioning. Counter conditioning is a very effective tool to help dogs learn to like things they were previously afraid of, but many people make mistakes in its implementation—and then think it hasn’t worked. This talk will give an overview of those all-important details and why they matter.
The details include how to make a clear contingency, when and how to combine counterconditioning with desensitization, and the role of an element of surprise. Plus we’ll talk about the best ways to explain these ideas in client-friendly ways. Along the way there will be nods to the science of counter-conditioning and how it has changed since the days of Pavlov.
Learning Objectives

Spot common mistakes that people make in counter-conditioning
Understand the role of an element of surprise
Develop and perfect counter-conditioning plans

WEBSITE LINK: https://www.petprofessionalguild.com/webinars-events/webinars/counter-conditioning-for-fearful-and-anxious-dogs-how-to-get-it-right-wiht-dr-zazie-todd/

Webinar - 10/29/24 - Sharing Solutions to Support Lost Pet Programs - HASS
2024-10-29 15:00 - 16:00
Stray pet intake is overwhelming animal shelters and there is a rising need for solutions to get those pets back home. Join industry experts from three HASS pilot shelters—Cincinnati Animal CARE, Greenville County Animal Care, and San Diego Humane Society, to learn about their pet reunification programs and how their efforts can be replicated where you live to get more lost pets home.
Register below and join us live on Tuesday, October 29 at 5 p.m. CT. After the live event, a recording will be emailed to all registrants within one week.
WEBSITE LINK: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/7816739797796/WN_htCUCWZzSuyhnwXUy3px7Q#/registration

Webinar - 10/30/24 - A Case Study – Animal Behaviour In Local Government: Proactive initiatives from the City of Charles Sturt - PPG (fee applies)
2024-10-30 15:00 - 16:00
What do trainers, animal management officers and dog owners have in common? A love of dogs and a need to understand animal behaviour.
This webinar provides a case study for the value of a collaboration between a trainer and a progressive, proactive local government council in South Australia – the City of Charles Sturt.
Local government councils in Australia have legislative requirements and work extensively with their residents in order to promote responsible pet ownership. However, it can be incredibly challenging for councils to educate the public in an area that, let’s face it, is rather boring to hear about. Dog owners aren’t lining up to learn about the laws for registration, desexing, microchipping or leash requirements, and the educational messages can often be lost.
As a trainer working in local government, Petra has been able to incorporate her understanding of animal behaviour and learning theory principles into some incredibly proactive, informative community engagement initiatives, including educational resources, dog park design, seminars and a ‘thank you’ campaign acknowledging responsible pet owners.
This presentation will explore how important animal management messages can be spread through an animal behaviour lens, provide examples of where and how trainers can collaborate with local government agencies, and showcase opportunities to share responsible pet ownership messages through their own work.
Learning Objectives

Identify opportunities to incorporate animal management messaging as part of your training curriculum
Identify opportunities to partner with local government in educational initiatives for their residents

Presenter: Petra Edwards
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.petprofessionalguild.com/webinars-events/webinars/a-case-study-animal-behaviour-in-local-government-proactive-initiatives-from-the-city-of-charles-sturt/

Webinar - 11/5/24 - Using Innovative Alternatives to Incarceration and Recognizing the Role of Trauma in Violence Against Animals - NACA/Justice Clearinghouse
2024-11-05 10:00 - 11:15
The animal law movement has, for the most part, been successful in showing society that animal cruelty is a problem. Now, a dynamic and evolving area of focus is creating targeted criminal justice outcomes to better help animal victims, heal individuals who committed cruelty, prevent future crimes against animals, and build healthier and more resilient communities. This webinar will discuss innovative work that identifies alternatives to traditional sentencing practices, which appropriately and accurately address underlying causes of animal cruelty, provide fairness to all parties involved in animal cruelty, and that work to curb the rate of future cruelty. Specifically, this webinar will discuss the role trauma can play as an underlying cause to cruelty, as well as methods to address and heal such trauma so it does not perpetuate animal cruelty in the future.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.justiceclearinghouse.com/webinar/using-innovative-alternatives-to-incarceration-and-recognizing-the-role-of-trauma-in-violence-against-animals/

Webinar - 11/6/24 - 2024 Veterinary Medicine Legislative Review - The Bridge Club
2024-11-06 17:00 - 18:00
Back by popular demand, our annual review of the legislative efforts that are changing veterinary medicine across the country. We will go state by state on major issues of title protection, new schools, virtual care and more. Don’t miss out on this one!
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.thebridgeclub.com/events/2024-veterinary-medicine-legislative-review-1
