Shelter Learniverse

Webinar - 2/12/26 - Maddie's Insights: Not All Cats Want a Couch: Using Research for Decisions on Working Cat Placements - Maddie's Fund
2026-02-12 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Recent research published in the Journal of Shelter Medicine and Community Animal Health highlights an important truth: not every cat is suited for life in a traditional home. Using the Feline Spectrum Assessment (FSA), the study revealed that cats least likely to be socialized were more fearful, less affectionate, and less amenable to handling post-adoption (even by their primary caretaker) compared to their more socialized counterparts. Adopters of these cats were also more likely to report their cat would have been happier outside, underscoring the need for shelters to carefully match cats with appropriate placement pathways. This evidence helps confirm what many in sheltering already know—while adoption is an ideal outcome for many cats, it is not the right outcome for every cat.
In the case of cats for which a traditional adoption pathway would not be appropriate and TNR/RTF is not possible, working cat or barn cat programs provide a humane and practical alternative. But careful consideration must be given to ensure the cat is medically appropriate, the placement site is suitable and safe, and that the transition into a new environment is conducted in a thoughtful, stepwise way. At Toronto Humane Society, cats identified as barn cat candidates are selected using the FSA alongside behavioral history and ongoing monitoring of in-shelter behavior modification progress, then integrated using a structured acclimation process: a period of crate confinement, followed by exploration in a secure space such as a tack room, before eventual free-roam. This approach maximizes welfare and sets both the cat and placement site up for long-term success.
Learning Objectives:

Understand how findings from recent research on the Feline Spectrum Assessment can inform decisions about which cats are best suited for traditional homes, barn cat placement, or TNR/RTF.
Learn how to identify appropriate candidates for barn or working cat programs by combining FSA results, behavioral history, and in-shelter progress.
Explore step-by-step strategies to successfully integrate barn cats into their new environments in ways that support welfare, safety, and long-term success.

Guest Speaker:
Jacklyn Ellis, MRes PhD CAAB CSB-C
Director, Behaviour, Toronto Humane Society
Earn continuing education credit from The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement towards 1.0 CAWA CEs. This webinar has also been pre-approved for 1.0 continuing education credits by the National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA). It has also been approved for 1 hour of continuing education credit until 10/14/2027 in jurisdictions which recognize RACE approval.
WEBSITE LINK: https://maddies.fund/MIwebcastsRegister

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

Online Course - 2/6/26 to 2/16/26 - Application Period for Spring 2026 Online Instructor-Led Courses - Maddie’s Fund®
2026-02-16 00:00 - 17:00
Spring 2026 Courses begin the week of March 9, 2026
Looking to implement a new program, learn more about a specific subject and create positive change for pets and people in your community? Maddie’s Fund® Online Instructor-Led Courses provide an interactive educational opportunity for those who are looking to benefit from the wisdom of established innovative programs. They’re the catalyst you need to take your programs and learning to the next level! All courses are free #ThanksToMaddie!
These courses require completion of:

Self-paced online materials
Zoom classes with your instructor and classmates (The length and number of Zoom classes are course-dependent, but can range from 4
to 6 classes, at 60, 75, or 90 minutes.)
Final project
Course Evaluation Survey

Class size is limited and the selection process is competitive.
To be eligible, your organization must be a U.S.-based 501c3 or government animal welfare organization. All Maddie’s University courses are pre-approved for NACA and CAWA CE (continuing education) credits.
Application period: February 6 – February 16, 2026.
Spring 2026 Course Offerings
NEW! Adoption Marketing: Positive Framing, Connective Storytelling, More Adoptions!
NEW! Cooperative Care for Dogs
Developing Your Own Kitten College
Feline Lifesaving: Essential Cat Programs for Shelters
Fostering Dogs with Behavior Concerns: Supporting Dogs and People
Humane Education: Tools & Techniques to Expand Your Reach
Live Better: The Power of You
NEW! Rural Sheltering
Shelter Clinic Management
NEW! Work Better: The Power of Us
WEBSITE LINK: http://university.maddiesfund.org/online-instructor-led-courses

Online Event - 2/18/26 - Shelter Med LIVE - Navigating Access to Care: Veterinarian Roles and Goals Inside and Outside the Shelter - UC Davis KSMP
2026-02-18 16:00 - 17:00
Access to care looks different depending on where—and how—you practice. In this episode, we center the veterinarian’s role across settings inside the shelter and out, unpacking how veterinarians balance medical priorities and operational realities, while partnering with pet owners, community organizations, and other practitioners. We’ll explore the real-world impact of community clinics and high-volume surgery on shelter medicine—and how these services should shape access-to-care strategy moving forward.
Join your host Dr. Jenn Bennett with guests Dr. Charlotte Burns (Mendocino Animal Hospital) and Dr. Jean Goh (Animal Fix Clinic) for this episode of Shelter Med LIVE if you want to:

Get clear on our many roles and goals as vets when it comes to participating in shelter- and community-based care
Dig into how we’re redefining “gold standard” care through the access to care movement
Navigate multiple care goals with partners, and explain how working within your capacity for care allows you to have the most impact
Talk through what access to care means to veterinarians practicing on both sides of shelter doors, their role in pathway planning, and how the veterinarian’s ability to support animal care depends on the context.

Send your biggest questions to sheltermedicine@ucdavis.edu in advance.
About Shelter Med LIVE: Shelter medicine bridges gaps in veterinary care access, ensuring animals are sterilized, vaccinated, and have the medical treatment they need before going home to the people and communities who care for them. Shelter Med LIVE is the place where vet professionals connect around what it takes to make shelter medicine happen every day—from intake triage to MacGyvering creative fixes. Every third Wednesday, join your UC Davis Koret Shelter Medicine Program host Dr. Jenn Bennett and special guests for real talk and real solutions.
Ask questions (or send them in ahead of time). This isn’t a lecture—it’s a conversation for everyone who wants to talk shop on shelter medicine. Kick back and recharge with your colleagues in the middle of a long week.
This event has been approved for 1 hour of continuing education credit by RACE, CAWA and NACA.
Can’t make it live? Register to receive the recording and resources after the event, accessible through the UC Davis Koret Shelter Medicine Program Shelter Learniverse, #ThanksToMaddie!
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.shelterlearniverse.com/events

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 - 2/19/26 - Navigating Organizational Change Series: Culture, Care, and Leadership in Transition - Life of Riley
2026-02-19 11:00 - 13:00
The first in our series, this 90-minute Learning Session led by Dr. Alison Dougherty and Dawn Woods, CPA will provide an overview of evolving organizational, governance, and workforce issues emerging in the current environment. It will also provide resources and actionable steps leaders can readily consider and apply.
The session will explore:
– The organizational landscape: common drivers of change, strategic considerations, and legal constraints.
– The people landscape: cultural and emotional implications for those who stay, those who leave, and those leading through transition.
– Key themes including communication, workforce care, and trust during uncertainty.
In addition to shared framing, participants will leave with a few practical tools to support reflection, decision-making, and communication during periods of transition. The session will also invite participant input on the challenges and topics they would most like to explore in this series, helping us shape upcoming deep-dive sessions around real-time needs and priorities.
WEBSITE LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/PRdj6XN_T52vGv9tlUy25g#/registration

Webinar - 2/19/26 - Do THIS! Not THAT! Differential Reinforcement for Common Behavior Problems - FDSA (fee applies)
2026-02-19 15:00 - 16:00
We’ve all heard the golden rule of dog training: “What do you want the dog to DO instead?” But turning that concept into a reliable, stress-free behavior within a behavior modification plan is easier said than done. It’s not just about picking a replacement behavior; it’s about the science of how that behavior is built.
As an experienced and certified behavior consultant, let me take you on a deep dive into the world of Differential Reinforcement (DR). In this webinar, we’ll move beyond basic obedience to show you how to change a dog’s state of mind, arousal levels, and emotional response (CER) to help a behavior modification plan succeed.
What You’ll Learn:

The Power of Positive CER: Why a “Sit” fueled by food and play works in high-stakes environments, while a “Sit” fueled by correction falls apart.
The DR Toolkit: A clear, practical breakdown of DRI (Incompatible Behavior): Teach a behavior your dog can’t do at the same time as the unwanted one. DRA (Alternative Behavior): Reinforce a more appropriate, polite option, and DRO (Other Behavior): Reward your dog for doing anything other than the problem behavior and how to know exactly which tool to pull from the belt.
Precision Implementation: Why fluency and latency are the “make or break” factors in your training plan.
Threshold Management: How to keep your dog in a learning state of mind so your training actually sticks.
Real-World Solutions for Common Problems

I will demonstrate how to apply DR strategies to the struggles ownersface every day, including:

Jumpers: Re-wiring greetings for both owners and guests.
Door Darters: Creating safety and focus at the threshold.
Leash Manners: Transitioning from “frantic” to “focused” on walks.
Big Emotions: Addressing demand barking, frustration, and reactivity rooted in fear or anxiety.

Presenter: Karen Deeds
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com/index.php/self-study/webinars

Online Meeting - Mondays - Weekly Community Conversations #ThanksToMaddie - Maddie's Fund
2026-02-23 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-03-02 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-03-09 11:00 - 12:00
Maddie’s Fund hosts a weekly 50-minute Zoom call for animal well-being professionals. These calls are a collaborative space to share exciting new programs and research, discuss uncomfortable topics, connect with peers in the industry, and more, all while sharing a common goal of preserving the human-animal bond.
Who Should Join?
Executive directors, animal well-being leaders, shelter workers, pet support professionals, volunteers, rescue organizations and anyone who shares the common goal of preserving the human-animal bond.
Win Ca$h for Attending!
Each month, Maddie’s Fund will be giving away up to $5,000 in grants. You can enter to win each time you attend a call or watch on-demand during the month by completing the giveaway drawing entry forms shared in the chat during the calls.
Register Today
Join us each Monday at 11am PT/2pm ET to receive support and learn about innovative ideas other organizations across the country are seeing success with. If you registered prior to July 2025 or are new to these meetings, please use this link to register:
https://maddies.fund/CommunityConversationsRegistration2025
All calls are recorded and uploaded to the Community Conversations page on Maddie’s Pet Forum https://forum.maddiesfund.org/communityconversations
Please note: All views expressed on these calls are not necessarily endorsed by Maddie’s Fund.
WEBSITE LINK: https://maddies.fund/CommunityConversationsRegistration2025

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. Chumkee Aziz, Zarah Hedge, Sarah Hicks, and Jonna Swanson for a conversation on applying these new standards—developed by nearly two dozen rabbit care, facility design 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 - Expanding Access to Veterinary Care Through Innovative Financing: Evidence-Based Insights for One Health Systems Supporting Pet Families - PPHE
2026-02-26 10:00 - 11:00
Financial barriers are the leading reason pet families delay or forgo veterinary care—often resulting in preventable suffering and broader impacts on human and community health. This webinar will present findings from a recent peer-reviewed study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, examining how veterinary clinics and their clients utilized a no-credit-check, third-party managed installment financing option to increase access to veterinary care. The research offers real-world evidence on how flexible payment solutions can change care decisions and help families pursue lifesaving treatment they otherwise could not afford.
Read the Research (Pre-Reading Encouraged): https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2025.1675999
Featured Presenters:
Heather Cammisa, MA, CAWA, Open Door Veterinary Collective
Amber Gilmore, CEO, P.E.T.S.
REGISTER TODAY (Registration is free but required.): https://tiny.utk.edu/Feb26OneHealthCommunityWebinar

Webinar - 2/26/26 - HASS Connect: Let's Talk Volunteers - HASS
2026-02-26 11:00 - 13:00
You are invited every fourth Thursday of the month, to join fellow leaders from national, government, and non-profit animal welfare organizations for a strategic roundtable discussion focused on the most pressing challenges facing our field. From staffing shortages and volunteer engagement to community trust, and the evolving role of shelters, this session invites candid dialogue, shared learning, and collaborative problem-solving. Whether you’re leading a municipal agency, nonprofit organization, or national initiative, your insights and experiences are vital to finding solutions.
This month’s session will be discussing a topic we all can relate to – Volunteers! This will be an open discussion about recruitment, recognition, and retention. Hope to see you there!
*You only need to register for the series once.
Time: 1-2 p.m. CT
Register here: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/eYjSHEXEQ–_PxoL4pH2_g#/registration

Online Event - 2/26/26 - Maddie's Monthly Behavior Connection: Breaking Up a Dog Fight - Maddie's Fund
2026-02-26 12:00 - 12:50
One of the most important ways we can meet shelter dogs’ needs and reduce behavior problems is to allow our dogs contact and playtime with their own species. Many staff and volunteers are concerned about giving dogs this vital exercise, enrichment, and important natural behavior outlet because of a fear of dog fights. While dog fights can sound scary, most are just “spit and noise” and cause little to no damage, many of us have seen fights that caused more damage, or fights where a person was also injured. Most of the ways we naturally approach breaking up a dog fight can actually make things worse, so teaching people how to break dog fights up efficiently and safely is an important part of onboarding any employees who may supervise dog interactions.
Laurie Lawless (of Shelter Behavior Integrations) and Trish McMillan (of Shelter Behavior Hub) are shelter behavior experts with decades of experience monitoring and facilitating dog play in many different contexts, but especially with shelter dogs. This webinar will review the tools and techniques they believe shelters should have on hand and employees should be taught to use, so that dogs can be cared for more safely, and so that they can have their needs met and behavior improved through social contact with their own kind.
Guest Speaker: Trish McMillan (Shelter Behavior Hub) & Laurie Lawless (Shelter Behavior Integrations)

About Maddie’s Monthly Behavior Connection:
Join us on the fourth Thursday of every month as we talk about dog and cat behavior – supporting pets in our community and animal shelters. Each month, we hear from speakers about topics of interest to our group, such as behavior medications, modifying animal behavior, assessing and improving animal welfare, and how organizations successfully provide behavior support to dogs and cats.
Who should join: Animal welfare staff and volunteers who are interested in dog and cat behavior, and everyone who works to keep pets out of shelters and in homes.
You only need to register once for all meetings: https://maddies.fund/MonthlyBehaviorRegistration
Can’t attend live? Register anyway and you will get a link to the recording within a day or two after each meeting.
All recordings and resources shared during the webcast will also be available in the Maddie’s Monthly Behavior Connection group on Maddie’s Pet Forum – https://maddies.fund/monthlybehaviorconnectionMPF
Maddie’s Fund does not share registration information.
The opinions expressed by webinar presenters are their own and do not necessarily represent those of Maddie’s Fund.
WEBSITE LINK: https://maddies.fund/MonthlyBehaviorRegistration

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/

Online Course – Application deadline 2/27/26 – Shelter Care Specialist Certification Program Spring 2026 Session – UC Davis KSMP Shelter Learniverse
2026-02-27 00:00 - 23:59
Offered by the Koret Shelter Medicine Program Shelter Learniverse as part of Maddie’s® Million Pet Challenge, the Shelter Care Specialist Certification Program empowers frontline animal shelter workers to provide exceptional care, grounded in best practices, with a focus on improving outcomes for animals and communities. Courses focus on safe, low-stress handling, sound medical and behavioral care, and practical systems that keep animals moving through your shelter instead of getting stuck.
You’ll gain expertise in:

Best practices to reduce animal stress.
Foundational animal care and medical care to enhance your skills.
Behavior, training, and enrichment for healthier, happier animals.
Population management to optimize shelter resources.
Daily care best practices that streamline your workflow and maximize impact.

The Shelter Care Specialist Certification is designed for you:

Built for real frontline work across the shelter: front desk, kennels, adoptions, foster, volunteers, clinic, and field services.
Short, on-the-job–friendly lessons with coach feedback and tools you can plug directly into existing routines.
Emphasizes realistic workflows—intake, daily care, behavior support, and outcome planning—so you can do more for animals with the resources you already have.
Certification is currently free, #ThanksToMaddie!

Whether you’re new to shelter work or a seasoned professional, this program equips you with the tools, knowledge, and recognition to make a greater difference.
Applications are being accepted for the Spring 2026 session starting 4/6/26.
Application deadline: 2/27/26.
Learn more about upcoming sessions and apply at https://tinyurl.com/SCS-General

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 Event - 3/5/26 - Maddie's Monthly Foster Connection - Growing your Foster Program: Increasing Live Release Rate for At-Risk Animals - Maddie's Fund
2026-03-05 12:00 - 13:00
Fostering is a critical lifesaving pathway for most municipal shelters, but too often at-risk populations are overlooked in favor of highly adoptable animals. This presentation will focus on two of the highest risk animal groups in your shelter and how to make them a focus of your foster program: dogs with extended lengths of stay and neonatal kittens.
Short term fosters, or “Foster Field Trips” as they’re known, help dogs by giving them a psychological reset from the shelter with minimal effort from foster families. Foster Field Trips help you set up these high-risk dogs for success in two major ways – they help improve kennel presentation and overall behavior upon their return to the shelter as well as provide your team with valuable personality insights that matter to potential adopters.
Empowering your community to foster kittens before they even enter your shelter can not only increase your capacity for care, but also set these kittens up for the best shot at a healthy life. For the kittens already in your shelter, overcoming the barrier of “I’ve never fostered kittens before!” is often the first and only step you’ll need towards increasing your live release rate within this population.
Speaker: Ryan Miller, Grants Manager, The Animal Foundation
About Maddie’s Monthly Foster Connection:
Join us on the first Thursday of every month to discuss successful foster innovations and programs, collaborate with others in the field, answer questions and talk through complex foster-related issues.
Who should join: Foster managers, coordinators, volunteers and any staff who are interested in learning about what’s working in foster programs.
You only need to register once for all meetings: https://maddies.fund/MonthlyFosterRegistration
Can’t attend live? Register anyway and you will get a link to the recording within a day or two after each meeting.
All recordings and resources shared during the webcast will also be available in the Maddie’s Monthly Foster Connection group on Maddie’s Pet Forum https://maddies.fund/monthlyfosterconnectionMPF
Maddie’s Fund does not share registration information.
The opinions expressed by webinar presenters are their own and do not necessarily represent those of Maddie’s Fund.
WEBSITE LINK: https://maddies.fund/MonthlyFosterRegistration

Online Event – 3/5/26 – Live from the Ranch: How Behavior Works – Karen Pryor Academy
2026-03-05 13:00 - 14:00
About How Behavior Works with Susan G. Friedman, Ph.D. & Ken Ramirez
How does behavior really work, and what makes lasting behavior change possible? Understanding the science of behavior change reveals how and why behaviors shift, allowing us to apply evidence-based principles that create lasting, meaningful, and effective change.
Can’t tune in live? No worries! You can access the recording immediately after the broadcast.
WEBSITE LINK: https://learn.clickertraining.com/live-from-the-ranch#next

Online Course – 3/7/26 – Neighborhood Cats TNR Certification Workshop – Community Cats Central (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://communitycatscentral.com/events/live-tnr-certification-workshop-march-2026/

Webinar - 3/11/26 - Getting to Our Goals: Rethinking Community Engagement to Support Our Mission - Best Friends
2026-03-11 13:00 - 14:00
Success in animal welfare today is about more than outcomes—it’s about relationships, and to reach our long-term goals, we must authentically engage with our communities, without judgement. This webinar explores how equitable, community-centric practices can dramatically improve outcomes for animals and people alike. Participants will explore evolving best practices and walk away with tools to reshape policies, partnerships, and messaging that truly reflect their values and goals. We’ll discuss impactful questions: Can you tweak your adoption process to decrease judgement and help more pets? Is your public messaging building trust with your community? How can we engage everyone in our work, particularly those in which we may not agree? Leave this session energized after re-imagining what the future of animal welfare could look like if we engage the full spectrum of our communities.
Presented by: Dr. Abbie Atteberry DVM, MS, CAWA, Elite FFCP
National Shelter Medicine; Best Friends Animal Society
WEBSITE LINK: https://bestfriends-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/4717437859110/WN_iRsWQsmFS4aikwy3tfGwsg

Online Event - Monthly - Journey You Own Meditation Gathering - JYO
2026-03-11 17:00 - 17:45
Create a shared, supportive space to explore grounding practices.
The guided meditations happen every month and typically run 30-45 minutes. All are welcome to these very low-key sessions, with videos on or off, whatever feels most comfortable to you. No speaking is necessary unless you’d like to share at the end of the session.
Attendees register once and can attend any of the monthly meditation dates. Don’t forget to add the dates to your calendar to ensure you don’t miss out on any sessions.
About the Host
Jyothi Robertson is a student of meditation practice for 40+ years and trauma-sensitive grounding practices formally for the past three years. She was raised by parents who practice meditation and lead spiritual teachings for members of their Indian community. She began pursuing her own formal exploration of spirituality as an anthropology major at Princeton University and conducted fieldwork for her thesis while living at an ashram (spiritual center) in India in 1996. As a veterinarian, she is interested in highlighting the spiritual connection between all living beings.
Jyothi has completed certifications in trauma-sensitive mindfulness, advanced trauma-sensitive meditation, deep listening, DEI, and since 2019, has been receiving training in Buddhist meditation practices and philosophy. As a student learning meditation, she is interested in exploring these practices with others in community.
WEBSITE LINK: https://jyo.world/meditation-gathering/

Webinar - 3/12/26 - Human Commonalities - HASS
2026-03-12 11:00 - 12:00
This webinar explores how shared human experiences shape the way people seek help, connect with services, and make decisions about their pets. Participants will learn how these insights can strengthen community‑centered programming and improve outcomes for both pets and families. The session highlights new data, stories, and tools that help organizations design more empathetic, effective support systems. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to integrate these findings into daily operations and long‑term planning.
WEBSITE LINK: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_aVr-u-zVQAOlSO2SgyLrZw#/registration

Webinar - 3/12/26 - Maddie's Insights: Early Life Stressors and the Behavior and Physiology of Rescue Kittens - Maddie's Fund
2026-03-12 12:00 - 13:00
Maddie’s® Insights is our ongoing webcast series with practical tips based on current research to help pets and people. Join us in March for a webinar on how early-life stress affects rescue kittens’ behavior and health. Our speaker is Dr. Jennifer Vernick, a veterinary behavioral medicine resident at Atlantic Veterinary College, UPEI in Canada.
Across species, early-life stressors, such as inadequate nutrition, maternal separation, unreliable access to shelter, threats/abuse, and disease, profoundly affect brain development and behavior. Research has shown these stressors can impair cognitive, emotional, and social functions as well as alter the body’s stress response systems, particularly the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. In kittens specifically, early nutritional stress and maternal separation have been linked to learning deficits, abnormal fear responses, increased aggression, and altered play behavior.
At the end of this webinar, you will:

be able to identify several different examples of early life stressors
understand why hair cortisol concentration (HCC) may be useful to measure
be able to provide potential reasons for high and low HCC
understand why relative telomere length (RTL) is measured
be able to provide potential causes for shortened telomeres
be able to provide examples of how early life stressors were associated with the behaviours that rescue kittens displayed during testing

Earn continuing education credit from The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement towards 1.0 CAWA CEs. This webinar has also been pre-approved for 1.0 continuing education credits by the National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA). It has also been submitted for 1 hour of continuing education credit in jurisdictions which recognize RACE approval for on-demand viewers. We will post the recording on Maddie’s University a day or so after the live webcast.
Guest Speaker:
Jennifer Vernick, BA, DVM
Behavioural Medicine Resident
Atlantic Veterinary College, UPEI
REGISTER: https://maddies.fund/MIwebcastsRegister

Webinar - 3/12/26 - Friend or Foe, My Dog Doesn’t Know: Finding Relief when Dogs Fear Strangers - ACVB (fee applies)
2026-03-12 16:00 - 17:00
Dogs can develop a fear of strangers for many reasons. Often, the intensity of fear escalates over time, creating distress for dogs as well as for their caregivers. Early recognition and appropriate intervention may prevent both the development and progression of fear yet common canine communications are often overlooked or misinterpreted. For therapy to be effective and humane, it is important to determine the emotional components contributing to the behavior. This webinar will discuss a practical approach to recognizing, assessing and managing fear of strangers in canine patients.
Speaker: Ellen M. Lindell, VMD, DACVB
WEBSITE LINK: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/5112443649528767580

Online Training - 3/14/26 - Trappers’ Tips & Tricks Certification Workshop - Community Cats Central
2026-03-14 11:00 - 13:00
Led by the experienced team at Neighborhood Cats, this workshop dives into proven techniques for trapping even the most trap-savvy cats. Drawing on more than two decades of hands-on TNR work, the session focuses on practical adjustments and creative strategies that can dramatically improve trapping success in real-world situations.
Whether you’re dealing with cats that won’t step on a trip plate or colonies that seem one step ahead of every plan, this workshop offers field-tested solutions you can adapt to your own work.
What You’ll Learn
Advanced Trapping Techniques for Wary Cats
Explore creative methods for outsmarting trap-wise cats, including modifying traps, using alternative bait strategies, and adjusting setups to increase success. Learn when and how techniques like clear rear doors, garden netting, and training cats to enter traps can make the difference between frustration and progress.
Problem-Solving in Real-World TNR Scenarios
Gain insight into how experienced trappers assess situations, adapt on the fly, and select the right tools for challenging environments. Real-life video footage from actual projects illustrates how small changes can lead to big results.
Valuable Resources & Certification
Take advantage of the interactive format and live Q&A, extensive handouts, and real-life video footage from actual projects. Attendees will receive a digital certificate after passing a brief quiz and access to a dedicated Facebook group for ongoing networking with fellow TNR advocates. Plus the live course recording will be available for you to review for one year.
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://communitycatscentral.com/events/trappers-tips-tricks-certification-workshop-2026/

Online Meeting - 3/16/26 - Weekly Community Conversations #ThanksToMaddie: Supporting Pediatric Spay Neuter - Maddie's Fund
2026-03-16 11:00 - 12:00
Join us for this engaging and informative Community Conversation, “Supporting Pediatric Spay-Neuter,” where we’ll explore the current state of spay-neuter and its relationship with animal shelters and accessible veterinary care. This session will review what we know about the impact and safety of pediatric spay-neuter and highlight operational tips and tricks for success in the clinic.
Led by Dr. Brian DiGangi, a veterinarian board certified in Shelter Medicine Practice with over a decade of experience teaching and performing HQHVSN, this speaker brings both expertise and compassion to the discussion.
Maddie’s Fund hosts a weekly 50-minute Zoom call for animal well-being professionals. These calls are a collaborative space to share exciting new programs and research, discuss uncomfortable topics, connect with peers in the industry, and more, all while sharing a common goal of preserving the human-animal bond.
Who Should Join?
Executive directors, animal well-being leaders, shelter workers, pet support professionals, volunteers, rescue organizations and anyone who shares the common goal of preserving the human-animal bond.
Win Ca$h for Attending!
Each month, Maddie’s Fund will be giving away up to $5,000 in grants. You can enter to win each time you attend a call or watch on-demand during the month by completing the giveaway drawing entry forms shared in the chat during the calls.
Register Today
Join us each Monday at 11am PT/2pm ET to receive support and learn about innovative ideas other organizations across the country are seeing success with. If you registered prior to July 2025 or are new to these meetings, please use this link to register:
https://maddies.fund/CommunityConversationsRegistration2025
All calls are recorded and uploaded to the Community Conversations page on Maddie’s Pet Forum https://forum.maddiesfund.org/communityconversations
Please note: All views expressed on these calls are not necessarily endorsed by Maddie’s Fund.
WEBSITE LINK: https://maddies.fund/CommunityConversationsRegistration2025

Webinar - 3/18/26 - Springtime Safety: Preventing Toxic Exposures in Kittens - National Kitten Coalition
2026-03-18 11:00 - 11:30
Join us for an essential 30-minute webinar, Springtime Safety: Preventing Toxic Exposures in Kittens, led by Rosemarie Crawford, LVT.
While our focus extends beyond lilies, it’s crucial to note that a staggering 53% of cat owners are unaware that lilies are toxic to their pets*. With Easter approaching, many households are likely to display lilies and other seasonal items that pose serious risks to kittens.
This webinar aims to equip fosters and caregivers with the knowledge needed to navigate these hazards and to emphasize the importance of educating new adopters about the safety of their adorable spring kittens.
We’ll cover the most prevalent holiday hazards, including toxic plants, festive foods, and household decorations, while providing effective prevention strategies and guidance on how to respond in case of exposure. Attendees will walk away with clear, actionable insights to ensure the safety of kittens during the holiday celebrations, along with the opportunity for a live Q&A. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance the well-being of our furry friends!
* Cats Protection, 2025 (https://www.cats.org.uk/media/onnnmi1h/cats-report-uk-2025_digital.pdf)
Presenter: Rosemarie Crawford, LVT
NKC Co-Founder and Director of Educational Programs
WEBSITE LINK: https://kittencoalition.org/event/springtime-safety-preventing-toxic-exposures-in-kittens/
