Shelter Learniverse

Online Meeting - Mondays - Weekly Community Conversations #ThanksToMaddie - Maddie's Fund
2023-01-30 11:00 - 12:00, 2023-02-06 11:00 - 12:00, 2023-02-13 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
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 $10,000 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.
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://forum.maddiesfund.org/communityconversations

Webinar - 1/31/23 - The Roundtable: Not-So-Secret Ways to Retain Your Staff - The AAWA
2023-01-31 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual
Does your organization make staff development a Number 1 priority? Three leaders will discuss why professional development is a vital part of their organizational culture and strategy. They will talk about:

How a well-structured development program helps recruit and retain staff
How to get both staff and board buy-in on making training a priority, if not an imperative
How to create a program that develops skills needed at their organization now and in the future

Join this roundtable to learn why and how your organization should develop your staff’s skills and put them on a trajectory for success.
The Roundtable Panel:

Steven Hansen, DVM, CAWA, President & CEO, Arizona Humane Society
Cristie Kamiya, DVM, CAWA, Chief of Shelter Medicine, Humane Society Silicon Valley
Jerrica Owen, CAWA, Executive Director, National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA)

WEBSITE LINK: https://learning.theaawa.org/p/RT-01-31-23

Webinar - 1/31/23 - Dr. Eduardo Fernandez: Training as Enrichment: A Critical Review - PPG (fee applies)
2023-01-31 15:00 - 16:00 | Virtual
Husbandry training and environmental enrichment are both important advancements associated with current behavioral welfare practices. Additionally, the use of training procedures has been proposed as a form of enrichment, with the implication that training can produce beneficial behavioral welfare results. Less clear are the specific testable ways in which training can be demonstrated to be enriching, beyond simply providing opportunities to be enriched.
This presentation examines the concept of training as enrichment through three distinct ways training procedures could enrich: (1) training facilitates enrichment usage, (2) training modifies interactions, conspecific or otherwise, and (3) training expands behavioral repertoires. Within each category, I discuss past research that provides empirical support for training functioning as enrichment, as well as related areas of research that provide additional evidence. Previous studies support the claim that training is enriching, with additional research necessary to better understand how prevalent and under what conditions training procedures function as enrichment. Future training research should examine these potential enrichment effects, including methodology that allows for comparisons to traditional enrichment, the use of welfare diversity/variability indices, and the effects of learning on trainers and trainees alike.
About the Presenter
Eduardo J. Fernandez is a Senior Lecturer of Applied Animal Behaviour and Welfare in the School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences at the University of Adelaide (Australia). He received his Ph.D. in Psychology (minors in Neuroscience and Animal Behavior) from Indiana University, where he worked with the Indianapolis and Cincinnati Zoo. He received his M.S. in Behavior Analysis from the University of North Texas, where he founded the Organization for Reinforcement Contingencies with Animals (ORCA). Most of his past and current work involves behavioral research applied to the welfare and training of zoo, aquarium, and companion animals. His past positions include a Visiting Professorship at Seattle Pacific University, a Visiting Professorship in the School of Behavior Analysis at the Florida Institute of Technology, an Affiliate Assistant Professorship in the Psychology Department at the University of Washington, a Research Fellowship with Woodland Park Zoo, and a National Science Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship. While working with UW and the Woodland Park Zoo, he started the Behavioral Enrichment Animal Research (BEAR) group, which conducted welfare research with many of the species and exhibits located throughout the zoo. He currently runs the Operant Welfare Lab (OWL), which is dedicated to the use of learning principles to improve the lives of animals across many settings, including exotic animals in zoos and companion animals in homes and shelters. OWL is also part of the broader Animal Behaviour, Welfare, and Anthrozoology Lab (ABWAL; abwal.com). Many of Eduardo’s past publications, research projects, and presentations can be found on his ResearchGate profile: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Eduardo_Fernandez18
WEBSITE LINK: https://petprofessionalguild.com/event-5064548

Webinar - 1/31/23 - “Safety First”–Tips to Improve Anesthetic Patient Care in Your Hospital - VETGirl (fee applies)
2023-01-31 17:00 - 18:00 | Virtual
Up your anesthetic game!
In this 1-hour, VETgirl veterinary technician webinar, Donna Sisak, CVT, LVT, VTS (Anesthesia/Analgesia) reviews the role the veterinary technician anesthetist plays in monitoring and managing a patient for a successful outcome. Tune in to learn tips to improve anesthetic patient care within your practice.
Not a VETgirl ELITE member? Get your learning on with the #1 veterinary CE resource – clinically relevant, practical, and accessible 24/7 on your own time! Don’t miss out – click HERE to join now!
WEBSITE LINK: https://vetgirlontherun.com/webinars/january-31-2023-safety-first-tips-to-improve-anesthetic-patient-care-in-your-hospital/

Webinar - 2/1/23 - Responding to Subtle Acts of Exclusion & Microaggressions - The AAWA
2023-02-01 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
Have you ever heard the phrase, “death by a thousand paper cuts?” It’s not only blatant acts of bias that exclude or discriminate against people from minoritized populations. It’s often the more subtle acts of exclusion, also known as microinequities or microaggressions, that are equally if not more harmful. These behaviors on the surface may seem insignificant, for example:

frequently interrupting the same people during conversations
consistently forgetting or mispronouncing a person’s name
using coded or stereotypical language
overlooking someone’s work but praising another’s

Regardless of the intentions of the message sender, the impact of such actions are often deeply felt by the receiver, especially if they have been on the receiving end of exclusionary treatment many times before. This session will help you recognize some common microaggressions, understand the impact of such actions, and develop techniques to respond effectively when they occur.
(“Microaggression” by Giulia Forsythe / CC 2.0)
WEBSITE LINK: https://learning.theaawa.org/p/2-01-23

Virtual Seminar - Thursdays in June - Shelter Behavior with Kelley Bollen - CalAnimals (open to non-members also)
2023-02-02 11:00 - 12:30, 2023-02-09 11:00 - 12:30
This 4 session VIRTUAL workshop designed for all levels of shelter staff will cover advice to resolve common dog and cat behavior problems to prevent surrender, a behavior perspective on intake and adoptions, canine behavior evaluations and decisions-making, and behavior modification in the shelter.
Each session is 90 minutes, from 11am to 12:30pm Pacific Time every Thursday in June, beginning June 4th.
The topics are:

Advice to Resolve Common Behavior Problems in Dogs and Cats to Prevent Surrender – June 4th

Intake and Adoptions – A Behavior Perspective – June 11th

Canine Behavior Evaluations and Disposition Decision Making – June 18th

Behavior Modification in the Shelter – June 25th

Tuition for entire series:
$40 Staff & Volunteers of CalAnimals Member Organizations – Remember to sign into the Member Portal to receive member discount.
$55 non-members
Complete your registration today. You will be automatically enrolled in ALL 4 sessions. A unique code and password will be emailed to you. The link may not be shared.

6/4/2020 to 6/25/2020

When:
All Thursdays in June
11am-12:30pm

Where:
VIRTUAL – 4 ZOOM WEBINARS

Presenter:
Kelley Bollen, MS, CABC

Contact:
Kathy Anderson
Kathy@CalAnimals.org

REGISTER HERE: https://calanimals.site-ym.com/event/KelleyBollenWorkshopJune

Online Event – 2/2/23 – Live from the Ranch with Melissa Millett and Michele Pouliot – Karen Pryor Academy
2023-02-02 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual
Learn how to train working dogs with positive reinforcement, deal with distractions, and the importance of training generalization on the next Live from The Ranch broadcast. Join Ken Ramirez, KPCT’s Chief Training Officer, Melissa Millett, an advanced trick trainer in film and TV, and Michele Pouliot, a pioneer in guide dog clicker training and Canine Musical Freestyle champion, for this free virtual event with real-time training demos, audience Q&A, and more!
Tune in live on YouTube on Thursday, February 2, at 1:00 pm (PT).
WEBSITE LINK: https://theranch.clickertraining.com/live/

Online Event - 2/2/23 - The H in HASS: Q&A - HASS
2023-02-02 15:00 - 16:00 | Virtual
When people experience a crisis, it often leads to being separated from the pets they love. The Human Animal Support Services project is a collective of animal welfare organizations working to create a system to better support pets and their people. In this live webinar, HASS leaders will continue the discussion of human services, animal services, and, overall, the “H” in HASS. Dr. Ellen Jefferson, President and CEO of Austin Pets Alive!; Vincent Medley, Maddie’s® Director of Human Animal Support Services; Diaz Dixon, Maddie’s® Advisor for External Affairs and Partnerships for the HASS project; and Alexis Telfair-Garcia, Social Work Program Development Manager at Austin Pets Alive!, will answer your questions about why and how human and pet support services can work together to better support people and pets on Thursday, February 2. Please submit your questions ahead of time to webinars@americanpetsalive.org.
WEBSITE LINK: http://bit.ly/3wvTCWM

Webinar - 2/3/23 - Deaf Dogs Unleashed with Tiffany Baker - PPG (fee applies)
2023-02-03 15:00 - 16:00 | Virtual
Introducing The Control Unleashed (CU) Program, Deaf Dog Style: Deaf Dogs Unleashed! The CU program, developed by Leslie McDevitt, was designed to help dogs learn how to relax and focus in challenging environments, while simultaneously building confidence by giving the learner control through predictable patterns in an otherwise unpredictable environment.
After implementing the CU exercises creatively and effectively with a few different deaf dog clients, it became clear that there was a need for these ideas to be shared. And so Control Unleashed for deaf dogs was born. Training with deaf dogs can sometimes be a challenge; the need for attention and engagement from our dogs is crucial when our dogs rely so heavily on visual cues. There’s also the added difficulty our deaf dogs experience with Sudden Environmental Contrast (SEC), as well as a more pronounced startle response when things appear unexpectedly. When things happen in their environment, unpredictably, and outside of their control, it can create increased anxiety and make it difficult for our pups to relax. What better way to provide our deaf dogs with the support they need to navigate their world than The Control Unleashed program?
Throughout this presentation you will get to experience The Control Unleashed program thoughtfully and creatively customized and purposefully geared towards our beloved deaf dogs. This will include introducing unique visual and tactile cues, combined with predictable patterns to build a beautiful recipe for engagement and confidence. We will be navigating the skills to implement the popular “Look At That” conversational game for ‘reactive’ dogs, as well as many of the foundational patterns that build voluntary engagement and predictability such as Up-Down, Ping-pong, Give Me A Break, Whiplash U-turn, and 1-2-3. We will also take a look at what real life application of this program looks like for our deaf dogs, and much more.
Whether you are a deaf dog guardian, or a trainer looking to add tools to your toolbox to better assist your clientele, this one’s for you. The purpose of this presentation is to expand the reach of The Control Unleashed program to provide attendees the resources, education, and skills to bring these beneficial life changing patterns and exercises to the deaf dogs of the world. Get ready to open up a new conversation of empowerment with your deaf dog!
Learning Objectives:

An understanding of the basic mechanics of training with a deaf dog including visual markers, forms of praise, and end of session signals such as a hand flash, thumbs up, the “all done” ASL hand wave.
The skills to teach and understanding of these foundational pattern games modified for deaf dogs: Up-down, Ping PongWhiplash U-turn, Give Me A Break, and 1-2-3.

CEUs: PPAB 1. CCPDT, IAABC & KPA Pending
WEBSITE LINK: https://petprofessionalguild.com/event-5090616

Online Course – 2/4/23 – Neighborhood Cats TNR Certification Workshop – Community Cats Podcast (small fee applies)
2023-02-04 11:00 - 13:30 | 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.
Proudly sponsored by Tomahawk Live Trap
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/events/the-neighborhood-cats-tnr-certification-workshop-feb-2023/

Online Course – Starts 2/6/23 – Compassion Fatigue Strategies Plus – University of Florida – Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Program (fee applies)
2023-02-06 | Virtual
**The Spring 2023 section is now open for registration! This session begins February 6, 2023 and runs for 8 weeks. Register now for $200. Registration fee will increase January 1st**
Compassion Fatigue Strategies Plus is a unique online course designed to support people who work with animals. In this four module, self-paced class, you will establish a foundation of knowledge to help you better understand and transform your experience with compassion fatigue (aka empathy strain), burnout, and stress. Course begins 02/06/2023-04/02/2023.
The course will help you recognize signs and symptoms of compassion fatigue, burnout, and vicarious trauma, learn how to reduce stress injury, increase your self-care and team-care practices, build compassion satisfaction, restore resiliency, and make successful changes in your life and in your organization.
In live calls and recorded modules, you will learn critical resilience skills, such as: self-awareness, self-regulation + grounding techniques, intentional perspective + cognitive reframing, self-care and setting limits, social support and debriefing, and how/when to seek mental health help. The live calls will be on Tuesday evenings at 8pm ET. Calls will be recorded and shared for those unable to attend the live session.
This class is a personal exploration to help you build the self-awareness necessary to manage the impact of compassion fatigue and other workplace stressors. Please be aware that the class work can be emotionally challenging.
By the end of class you’ll have a variety of practical strategies to help you manage and transform your experience with compassion fatigue and reduce overall stress. You’ll have a better understanding of yourself and how to engage in self-care that works for you, as well as how to support your staff using vicarious-trauma informed approaches, so that you can be well, while you continue to do good work!
WEBSITE LINK: https://sheltermedicine.vetmed.ufl.edu/education/continuing-education/compassion-fatigue-strategies/

Online Course – Starts 2/6/23 – Professional Dog Training: Science & Application – IAABC (fee applies)
2023-02-06 | Virtual
Training is simple, but it’s not easy! There’s canine learning to understand, practical skills and timing to master, and of course, the human part of the equation to consider. Professional Dog Training: Science & Application is a comprehensive 20-week program designed to provide you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to succeed as a dog trainer.
Program Highlights:

Each module features lectures and materials packed full of information and designed by a practicing dog training and behavior professional.
You won’t just be watching videos – throughout the program you will engage in weekly online meetings, projects, assignments, and topic-based discussions.
We learn better together! The program is designed using a community learning model; your active participation contributes to everyone’s educational experience and the success of the program.
Assessment of your work is iterative; you are always given an opportunity to improve!

Presenters include:
Lauren Novack; Renee Hall; Kathrine Christ; Tabitha Kucera; Michelle Mullins; Erin Jones; Dante Camacho; Allie Bender; Emily Strong; Alicia Harantschuk; Jackie Laubacher
Module topics include:
Principles of Learning Science; Practical Learning Applications; Body Language & Communication; Training & Management Tools; Puppy Fundamentals; Enhancing Animal Welfare & Management Through Enrichment; Husbandry & Cooperative Care Strategies; Client Communication; Client Instruction; Teaching Group Classes; Practical Ethics for Dog Trainers
**IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT WEEKLY ONLINE MEETINGS**

Meetings are a safe space to ask questions, share your experiences, and learn from peers. They are not recorded.
Meetings take place on Mondays at 7:00pm Eastern. The first meeting is February 13, 2023.
Meetings are 60 minutes in duration
There are 20 meetings for this program

WEBSITE LINK: https://iaabcfoundation.org/courses/professional-dog-training-science-application/

Webinar - 2/7/23 - Veterinary Care in Shelters: Who can legally do what? - CalAnimals
2023-02-07 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
Is your shelter fully leveraging the veterinary care capabilities of your entire team? When it comes to veterinary care in animal shelters, it’s crucial to make sure the right person does the right job—and the right person doesn’t always have to be a DVM or RVT!
If you’ve ever wondered:
• Can vaccines be administered during hold periods?
• Who can give a Rabies vaccine, and under what type of supervision?
• What if we don’t have a veterinarian on site – can we use standing protocols?
• Is microchipping or administering snap tests the practice of veterinary medicine?
This webinar is for you! Join Bruce Wagman, Lead Counsel for San Francisco SPCA’s Shelter Policy and Legal Services (Shelter PALS), to maximize your shelter’s options for providing veterinary care while adhering to law and practice act requirements. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of which shelter tasks team members can perform, from intake-related care and running diagnostics to providing treatment, surgery, euthanasia, public veterinary services and emergency care.
WEBSITE LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_5WHs_GvEQRO6ZHr4XkHycA

Webinar - 2/7/23 - Social Media Marketing Strategies for Animal Shelters - NACA/Justice Clearinghouse
2023-02-07 12:00 - 13:15 | Virtual
This live presentation is designed specifically for animal shelter representatives who want to learn more about the basics of social media marketing and how to build out a social media marketing strategy.
Posting compelling content to social networking platforms can be utilized to increase online reputation, receive community support to increase staff morale, while increasing visibility to possibly decrease the animal length of stay/increasing adoptions and so much more!
During this presentation, we’ll discuss the following topics:

Identification of SWOTs through use of analytics
Discussion of the importance of social listening
A walkthrough of how to fold weaker posts in between stronger posts
Use 3 posts to get what you need from 1 post by “priming” posts
The definition of platform momentum and the value of maintaining it
New examples of using the indirect method of posting your content to improve your reputation

Afterward, stick around for a Q&A discussion to possibly help answer questions you may have by sharing through our experiences.
Presenter
Angelina Martin is the owner of Online Media Solutions, a media agency that helps provide social media solutions through education, training via onsite & remote assistance, and educational webinars for animal shelters. Angelina has previously worked as the finance manager/director for nonprofit organizations such as the Animal Legal Defense Fund.
Angelina created her first Facebook page in 2012 to help a special-needs dog get adopted, and left her career in finance to follow her heart through saving & improving the lives of animals through online marketing. Having a background in numbers has helped her develop innovative, successful social media strategies specifically for animal care & control organizations with highly successful results increasing visibility & reach to improve online reputations through social networking platforms.
In 2016, Angelina was awarded the first social media contract for Sonoma County Animal Care & Control increasing their Facebook page likes from 4K to 25K, engagement rate from 500 to 150K (average), 2.2M during disaster-related events, and contributed to increasing live animal release rate from 82% to 91%, saving thousands of animals lives. From 2016 through 2020 Sonoma County went through 4 major disaster related events. After working through so many disasters and emergencies, while being mentored by an experienced operations manager, she also successfully researched, designed, and implemented a successful disaster preparedness plan for the online community and their companion animals.
Angelina has also created educational webinars to help other animal shelters and animal response teams become more prepared for future events. She was recently asked to speak at the annual CalAnimal Conference to talk about Building your Brand Online, including how to use social media during emergencies to promote animal reunification and to increase donations.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.justiceclearinghouse.com/webinar/social-media-marketing-strategies-for-animal-shelters/

Webinar - 2/8/23 - Nonprofit Messaging That Breaks Through the Noise - Network for Good
2023-02-08 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
It’s time to break through the noise! Learn how to create nonprofit messaging that stands out from the crowd, moves hearts, creates community, and inspires action.
If you feel stuck on how to tell your nonprofit’s stories, you’re in good company. In this session, we’ll break down the steps to creating stories that generate movers and shakers. What’s more, we’ll explore how to tell your nonprofit’s stories with an ethical and trauma-informed lens that dignifies, respects, and protects those you serve.
Key takeaways:

Develop a deeper understanding of your audience
Learn ways to tell your organization’s incredible stories that will change the lives of those who hear them
How to position your nonprofit as the go-to authority in your industry
Gain practical tools to gather and create trauma-informed and ethical stories

Speaker: Maria Bryan, Nonprofit marketing and messaging strategist
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.networkforgood.com/resource/stw-nonprofit-messaging/

Online Event - 2/8/23 - CARE Black History Month Series: What is Community Wisdom in Human and Animal Well-Being? - CARE
2023-02-08 16:00 - 17:00 | Virtual
Join Johnny Jenkins as he speaks to community leaders about their lived experiences, animal well-being, and social justice issues impacting their communities. The speakers will share the knowledge and wisdom that exist within their Black communities to survive the perpetual oppression of structural power and stratified privilege. You will learn about the wisdom with the problem solving skills as proximate leaders to showcase their resilience and self-determination.
PANEL: Chef Kurt Evans, Dr. Azalia Boyd, Sassee and Tim Freeman
CARE is hosting our 3rd annual American Black History Month Series. This speaker series aims to raise $250,000 towards African American Veterinary Scholarships for students at Tuskegee’s College of Veterinary Medicine.
American Black History Month: Dark Shadows are Evidence of our Ascent.
CARE is telling the stories of suffrage and pain. While the dark shadows were meant to destroy black people, the fact that we can tell our own narratives, is evidence that we have risen.
You must register ahead of the event to receive your registration link. Please click on the link to sign up. While registration is FREE, we are asking everyone to contribute towards our Dr. Jodie G Blackwell Black Veterinary Scholarship fund. Donate Here.
WEBSITE LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMvceyvqTgsHNaHzHjvMPNhuyVy7RxaLdE6?mibextid=l066kq

Webinar - 2/8/23 - Basic Behavior Pharmacology for Veterinary Technicians and Nurses - VETGirl (fee applies)
2023-02-08 17:00 - 18:00 | Virtual
COVID-pandemic puppies got YOU anxious?
In this 1-hour, VETgirl veterinary technician webinar, Debbie Martin, LVT, CPDT-KA, KPA CTP, VTS (Behavior) explores the various classes of commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medications in veterinary medicine. Tune in to learn how to recognize potential side effects and contra-indications of behavioral medications of the patients in your care.
Not a VETgirl ELITE member? Get your learning on with the #1 veterinary CE resource – clinically relevant, practical, and accessible 24/7 on your own time! Don’t miss out – click HERE to join now!
WEBSITE LINK: https://vetgirlontherun.com/webinars/february-8-2023-basic-behavior-pharmacology-for-veterinary-technicians-and-nurses/

Webinar - 2/9/23 - Maddie's Insights: Short-Term Foster Programs for Shelter Cats: Beneficial or Problematic? - Maddie's Fund
2023-02-09 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
Every year millions of cats enter animal shelters in the U.S. alone. Interventions are greatly needed that have the potential to reduce cat stress and increase cat welfare while in the shelter environment. Although dog foster programs have become commonplace for many animal shelters, cat foster programs are relatively uncommon, potentially due to the belief that cats may be at risk of unnecessary stress from the fostering experience. In the study, researchers examined the social behavior and stress levels of cats that stayed in the shelter to cats that left the shelter for short-term foster, either for 1-night or 1-week. The results of the study indicate that shelter cats placed in foster care were not at a disadvantage. These findings can benefit both cats and animal shelters alike. Attendees will learn more about the study and how to apply the findings of the research to help reduce stress and promote welfare for cats living in animal shelters. The research discussed in this webinar was made possible by a grant from Maddie’s Fund®, #ThankstoMaddie.
This webinar will be recorded and 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.
This program has been approved for 1 hour of continuing education credit in jurisdictions which recognize RACE approval.
About the presenter
Kristyn Vitale, PhD
Dr. Vitale received a Ph.D. in Animal Science from Oregon State University and a Master’s in Environmental Science from Miami University. She holds a B.S. in Zoology and a B.A. in Social Geography from Kent State University. Her areas of specialization are animal behavior and human-animal interaction. Her research focuses specifically on domestic cat behavior, cat social cognition, and the cat-human relationship. She has worked professionally with cats for over 15 years. During her graduate career she was a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow, a Visiting Research Fellow at Kyoto University in Japan, and Maddie’s Postdoctoral Scholar. Her research on cat behavior and human-animal interaction has been published in multiple peer-reviewed journals. Her innovative research has generated significant international attention from media outlets including Science, National Geographic, The New York Times, and The Times of London. She has taught a variety of courses on animal behavior and welfare, including courses focused on enrichment, learning, and behavior modification. She is also a cat trainer who has taught kitten training classes and offered socialization opportunities to cats of all ages. She is an active public speaker and is frequently invited to present at professional associations and to the general public.
WEBSITE LINK: https://maddies.fund/MIwebcastShortTermFoster

Town Hall - 2/9/23 - Sharing Stories, Shaping the Future: A HASS Town Hall - HASS
2023-02-09 15:00 - 16:00 | Virtual
Join us for a thought-provoking live discussion where we will delve into the past, present, and future of the Human Animal Support Services project. Hear from Vincent Medley, Maddie’s® Director of Human Animal Support Services, joined by leaders of our HASS pilot shelters who will share their experiences in HASS pilot shelters and their insights into the evolution of HASS. This town hall is a unique opportunity to learn about the HASS project and engage in a meaningful discussion about the future of animal welfare.
The call will kick off with a brief introduction from Vincent, before delving into the discussion with our special guests. Register today and join live on Thursday, February 9 at 5pm CT to ask your questions and be a part of the conversation.
WEBSITE LINK: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAkcO2qrD8qH9B1XNcVBGXi2711HOrnKIN3

Webinar - 2/9/23 - "Do dogs mean to be mean? Understanding Canine Aggression" with Dr. Debra Horwitz - ACVB (fee applies)
2023-02-09 16:00 - 17:00 | Virtual
Do dogs mean to be mean?
Veterinarians actually know a great deal about canine signaling and aggression yet most of it has become second nature to us. That is the reason that we rarely get bitten in day to day practice and when we do, we realize it is coming just a second too late. However, clients are not aware of subtle canine communication that can help them understand and improve their relationship and safety with their dog. Learning how to label these behaviors and use common sense explanations for why dogs do what they do will help you keep your clients and staff safe and dogs in their homes.
Dr. Debra Horwitz is a graduate of Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine and a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists. She frequently lectures in North America and abroad on behavioral topics to veterinarians and pet owners and often featured on both television and radio. Her newest Blackwell’s Five-Minute Veterinary Consult Clinical Companion: Canine and Feline Behavior 2nd edition (2018) Other publications include the BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Behavioural Medicine 1st and 2nd editions, and co-authoring Lifelearn Behavior Client Handouts. She was an editor for books for pet owners authored by diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists Decoding your Dog (January 2014) and Decoding your Cat (June 2020). She was president of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists 2006-2008. Awards include Veterinarian the Year from Ceva Animal Health and NAVC Small Animal Speaker of the Year 2012, and 2014.
WEBSITE LINK: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/8120737123734099982

Webinar - 2/9/23 - Handling Large Dogs: The Human Side of the Equation with Michael Shikashio - FDSA (fee applies)
2023-02-09 18:00 - 19:00 | Virtual
Join Michael Shikashio CDBC as he showcases a variety of defensive handling techniques for:

What to do when off-leash dogs approach or attack your on-leash dog
Handling a dog who has issues with people or other dogs in tight spaces such as city environments, apartment buildings, or vet’s offices
Managing sudden moments when distance from people or other dogs cannot be controlled

So pull up your computer, popcorn, and leash and learn how to keep your dog and yourself safe!
Note: This webinar is back by popular demand. Please check your webinar library before purchasing.

WEBSITE LINK: https://www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com/self-study/webinars

Online Course – Starts 2/13/23 – Creating Desirable Behavior Around Distractions – IAABC (fee applies)
2023-02-13 | Virtual
Michele Pouliot demonstrates and explains how to train reliable behaviors around surprises, temptations, and all those daily events that present challenges for dogs. Trainers working with companion and sports dogs, as well as guide dogs, will benefit from this!
This course will help you:

Identify what environmental cues trigger undesirable behaviors in each individual dog
Create an effective training plan, teaching the dog to choose desirable behavior without human prompting in mild, and even highly distracting situations
Successfully manage challenging situations for both dog and handler

Full Students have instructor support in the class Forum to ask any questions you have during the course.
Auditors have access to course material only.
WEBSITE LINK: https://iaabcfoundation.org/courses/creating-desirable-behavior-around-distractions/

Online Course – Starts 2/15/23 – What Is a Dog? The Ethology of Our Best Friend – IAABC (fee applies)
2023-02-15 | Virtual
Ethology is the scientific and objective study of animal behavior under natural conditions. In short, it’s the study of how animals behave in the real world.
This course takes a deep dive into our understanding of dogs as a species, and therefore how we live with them and train them, how they learn, and how we can best solve behavioral issues if they arise.
To address these questions we will consider:

The interplay between canine domestication, evolution, and behavior
Development in dogs: birth through adulthood
The perceptual world of the dog and how it impacts behavior
How dogs approach and solve problems in their environment
The role of genetics in behavior
The behavior of free-ranging dogs

You will come away from this course with an even deeper appreciation and wonder for these amazing animals we live with. You’ll never look at dogs—or dog training—quite the same way again.
Course Begins: February 15, 2023
Duration: 4 weeks
Instructor: Kristina Spaulding, PhD, CAAB
** IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT ONLINE WEEKLY MEETINGS **

Auditors do not attend online meetings
Meetings are not recorded
Meetings take place on Wednesdays at 1:00 pm Eastern (first meeting February 22nd)
Meetings are 1 hour in duration
There are 4 meetings for this course

WEBSITE LINK: https://iaabcfoundation.org/courses/what-is-a-dog/

Webinar - 2/15/23 - Building Psychological Safety for High Performing Teams - The AAWA
2023-02-15 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
What is the secret ingredient for high performing teams? Research over the last few decades clearly indicates that teams with high levels of “psychological safety” consistently and dramatically outperform those that do not. Psychological safety refers to freedom from fear of being ridiculed or punished for speaking up about one’s ideas, opinions, questions or mistakes. When individuals feel fully included and are able to speak honestly and without fear of social risk, teams are more innovative, make fewer errors, are more capable of complex problem solving, and are willing to give discretionary effort for the good of the group. This session will explore the key elements of psychological safety in teams. You, as a leader, will be equipped with tips and techniques for fostering psychological safety in your organization.
WEBSITE LINK: https://learning.theaawa.org/p/2-15-23

Online Event - 2/15/23 - CARE Black History Month Series - Affrilachian: Advocacy through Law and Literature - CARE
2023-02-15 16:00 - 17:00 | Virtual
Akisha Townsend Eaton and her Sister, Jacinda Townsend, talk about how their Kentucky roots influenced both of their trajectories. They will speak on their reactions to the death of Tyre Nichols in the context of Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing, Jacinda’s multiple published books, and systemic racism in animal advocacy. And hear how Jacinda’s advocacy for her pet rabbit inspired Akisha’s interest in the field.
Panel: Akisha Townsend Eaton, Jacinda Townsend
Bio: Jacinda Townsend is currently the Helen Zell Visiting Professor in Fiction at the Unviersity of Michigan. She is also the author of Mother Country (Graywolf, 2022), winner of the 2022 Ernest Gaines Award for Literary Excellence, and Saint Monkey (Norton, 2014), which won the Janet Heidinger Kafka Prize and the James Fenimore Cooper Prize. Please visit www.jacinda-townsend.com for more details.
About this series:
Companions and Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE) is hosting our 3rd annual American Black History Month Series. This speaker series aims to raise $250,000 towards African American Veterinary Scholarships for students at Tuskegee’s College of Veterinary Medicine.
You must register ahead of the event to receive your registration link. While registration is FREE, we are asking everyone to contribute towards our Dr. Jodie G Blackwell Black Veterinary Scholarship fund.
Donate Here: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LCQU48XS8TH4N
American Black History Month: The Dark shadows of American History were meant to suppress Black people. But, we have ascended and now rise to tell our own Stories. The shadows remain, but they also serve to illustrate our collective resilience.
WEBSITE LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAtcuigqDwpGNHviIgOyrINqH6q8NQ_RboK

Webinar - 2/15/23 - Multi-Cat Households: Updates to Recognizing and Managing Intercat Conflict - HSVMA
2023-02-15 17:00 - 18:00 | Virtual
Although intercat conflict is common in companion cats, it is often unrecognized because of the subtle signs that occur more frequently than hissing or fighting. Without addressing the intercat conflict, feline welfare is impaired. Learn the most recent information to detect intercat conflict, the interplay between mental and physical health and how to manage the distress in these patients. Although psychopharmacology is often recommended, it is most important to address the physical and social environment and identify whether medical management is needed.
During this presentation, attendees will learn:

to identify the subtle signs of intercat tensions and conflict
to recognize impaired welfare within companion cats
steps for early introduction and management of intercat tensions

About the Presenter
Ilona Rodan, DVM, ABVP Feline, IAABC-CCBC
Dr. Ilona Rodan is an ABVP certified feline specialist since 1995. Her passion is cat behavior and how to interact with cats in veterinary practices to enhance their welfare and our safety. She is the owner of Cat Behavior Consultations, and the former medical director and owner of the Cat Care Clinic in Madison, Wisconsin.

Dr. Rodan is an active volunteer of the American Association of Feline Practitioners, a past-president and former chair of the AAFP Cat Friendly Practice program. She is the co-chair of the 2022 AAFP/ISFM Cat Friendly Interactions Guidelines and has also co-chaired guidelines and welfare position statements, including Feline Environmental Needs and the Cat Friendly Veterinary Environment.
She presents nationally and internationally on feline medicine and behavior, and leads workshops on cat-friendly interactions and handling. In 2005, she was awarded the AVMA Animal Welfare Award for her leadership and contributions to advancing feline medicine and behavior. Dr. Rodan has written journal articles and book chapters, and is a co-editor and co-author of the veterinary textbook, Feline Behavioral Health and Welfare. Her goal is for every veterinary professional to learn how to interact safely with and handle cats during veterinary visits. In her spare time, she loves spending time outdoors in nature, kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, and spending time with her human and feline family.
WEBSITE LINK: https://hsvma.memberclicks.net/webinar-multi-cat-households

Webinar - 2/15/23 - Dental Radiographs: Anatomy, the Diagnostic Image, and Tips - VETGirl (fee applies)
2023-02-15 17:00 - 18:00 | Virtual
Dental rads…. Made easy!
In this 1-hour, VETgirl veterinary technician webinar, Laurel Bird, CVT, VTS (Dentistry) reviews the oral anatomy as seen on dental radiographs and discusses what is needed for a diagnostic image no matter how the patient is positioned. Tune in for tips and tricks to improve your success in dental radiography!
Not a VETgirl ELITE member? Get your learning on with the #1 veterinary CE resource – clinically relevant, practical, and accessible 24/7 on your own time! Don’t miss out – click HERE to join now!
WEBSITE LINK: https://vetgirlontherun.com/webinars/february-15-2023-dental-radiographs-anatomy-the-diagnostic-image-and-tips/
