Shelter Learniverse

Webinar - 8/6/24 - Not Enough Adopters, or Not Enough Adoptions: Foot Traffic Tracking May Tell You It’s the Latter - HASS
2024-08-06 15:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Why are people interested in adopting pets leaving shelters empty handed?
Turns out the shelters themselves may have more of a role that you think. Join Amanda Foster, Assistant Director of Research & Data for HASS, as well as Heidi Martson, PetSmart Charities Director of Pet Placement Initiatives, to discuss how five different shelters began implementing people-centric best practices to better understand the WHY behind their adoption conversion rate, and provide you with the tangible tools and initiatives organizations can use today to aid in increasing adoptions.
Join us live Tuesday, August 6th at 5 p.m. CST!
WEBSITE LINK: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/7816739797796/WN_FpVANXHzQh6xe9AnFE-zXQ

Webinar - 8/7/24 - Behavior and Training Webinar: 'De visita al veterinario' - "A friendly vet visit" - Every Dog Austin
2024-08-07 16:00 - 17:00
Todos los perros tienen que ir al veterinario por lo menos una vez a año. Queremos enseñarles técnicas de seguridad y de manejo para que su visita sea más suave y divertida. Su perro y el veterinario se lo agradecerán ya que el propósito es que el perro se sienta más cómodo y coopere a la hora de ser examinado.
EVENTO GRATIS: las donaciones son opcionales
Speaker: Isamar Pérez Biology (B.S.) , RVT, CPDT
Contamos con más de 10 años de experiencia en ambientes de trabajo de ritmo rápido incluyendo clínicas veterinarias y centros de cuido y entrenamiento de mascotas.
Disfrutamos educar a guardianes de perros sobre el bienestar animal en todas sus etapas de vida y sobretodo nos apasiona reconstruir lazos y dar segundas oportunidades luego de que el perro muestra comportamientos de agresividad.
Todas las mascotas que hemos ayudado a regular su instinto defensivo nos han enseñado que muchos comportamientos de agresividad comienzan por una amenaza llamada dolor. Es por esto que el cuidado cooperativo en las visitas veterinarias son imprescindibles para poder llevar al animal al veterinario y poder identificar si hay una condición médica que nos urge atender.
Buscamos un balance para unir los mundos y transformar vínculos.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.everydogaustin.org/event-details/de-visita-al-veterinario-a-friendly-vet-visit

Online Course – Starts 8/13/24 – Shelter Cat Behavior Mentorship with Trish McMillan – Shelter Behavior Hub (fee applies)
2024-08-13
This is an on-demand course, with weekly Zoom meetings and a discussion group in between, starting on Tuesday, August 13th. Classes run weekly for thirteen weeks, and participants have a whole year of access to course material. We will cover various aspects of shelter cat behavior, from intake to assessment, to post-adoption support. With the input of your peers from all over the world, we will explore the latest science and best practices in building your shelter behavior programming to meet and exceed industry standards, and to give every cat in your care the best chance at a great life.
Register before June 5 with the code UCD10 to receive 10% off.
WEBSITE LINK: https://trish-s-school-bcb6.thinkific.com/courses/2024A-scbm-shelter-cat-behavior-mentorship

Webinar - 8/13/24 and 8/14/24 - Update on Antimicrobial Use and Stewardship Recommendations in Large and Companion Animals - CVMA (fee applies)
2024-08-13 12:30 - 14:00
This online seminar will cover important updates on antimicrobial use in both large and companion animals, as well as recommendations for antimicrobial stewardship.
Topics that will be discussed include:

Why antimicrobial stewardship is crucial in veterinary medicine
Updates on culture and sensitivity reporting
Updates on stewardship practices and recommendations in large and small animals
Applying the data to practical use in clinics

This course satisfies the one hour of California CE requirement on the judicious use of medically important antimicrobial drugs.
This course qualifies for 1.5 CEU.
CVMA Online Seminars are convenient interactive presentations offering CEUs held in real-time. This learning platform allows you to participate from anywhere with internet access – from your practice, your home, or anywhere you have an internet connection. Attending is as easy as a few mouse clicks. You will only need internet access and either computer audio, a headset, or a telephone.
This seminar is open to veterinarians, veterinary technicians, veterinary hospital staff, and veterinary students only.
WEBSITE LINK: https://cvma.net/continuing-education/upcoming-ce/cvma-online-seminar-antimicrobial-webinar-august/cvma-online-seminar-update-on-antimicrobial-use-and-stewardship-recommendations-in-large-and-companion-animals-august-13-amp-14-2024/

Webinar - 8/14/24 - Understanding Dog Body Language Using T.E.M.P. - Every Dog Austin
2024-08-14 16:00 - 17:00
Dogs don’t speak human but their body can say millions of words. In this webinar you will gain a better understanding of reading a dogs body language through T.E.M.P. (Tail, Ears/Eyes, Mouth, and Posture)
FREE event, donations optional!
This webinar is part of Every Dog Behavior and Training’s BIPOC Speaker Series.
About the Speaker: Aaron Jones
I worked as a Vet Tech for over 12 years. Although I enjoyed my role dearly, there was still something missing. The medical side of care just did not feel like I was where I was supposed to be. I had always wanted to volunteer raising puppies to become service dogs, so I started researching non-profit organizations. I soon found one and attended my first meeting and was hooked. Training dogs is what makes me feel complete. It’s my calling. I attended Animal Behavior College where I earned my certification as a Certified Dog Trainer. I am a dog lover first, and a dog trainer second. I know from first-hand experience the difference dog training makes in the relationship between dog and owner. I believe in creating an unbreakable bond and a trusting relationship between dog and human using positive reinforcement techniques.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.everydogaustin.org/event-details/understanding-dog-body-language-using-t-e-m-p

Webinar - 8/15/24 - Protecting Kittens from Feline Panleukopenia: Essential Strategies for Animal Shelters and Rescues - Maddie's Fund
2024-08-15 12:00 - 13:15
Animal shelter and rescue agencies across the country often struggle to protects cats and in particular kittens from the infectious diseases that tend to rise as ‘kitten season’ surges each year. This webinar focuses on safeguarding cats of all ages from feline panleukopenia (sometimes also called feline distemper or FPV), a highly contagious and potentially fatal viral disease. Veterinary experts will discuss disease recognition in individuals and within a shelter population, effective prevention methods, and best practices for managing outbreaks in shelter environments and foster homes.
Thursday, August 15, 2024 at 12n Pacific / 3pm Eastern for 75 minutes. This webcast will be recorded.
Join Dr. Becky Stuntebeck, Facility Design and Outreach Veterinarian at the Koret Shelter Medicine Program, and Dr. Uri Donnett, Lead Veterinarian at Dane County Humane Society, and come away knowing how to implement effective prevention strategies within the shelter or foster homes, including proper vaccination protocols and sanitation measures – and much more.
This webcast will be moderated by Julie Levy, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, DAVBP, Fran Marino Distinguished Professor of Shelter Medicine Education at the University of Florida.
Can’t attend live? Register anyway and you will get a link to the recording.
This webinar have been approved for 1.25 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 submitted for approval for 1.25 hours of continuing education credit in jurisdictions which recognize the Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE) approval. Submission for RACE CE is for on-demand viewing only. Maddie’s Fund does not share registration information.
About the Presenters
Dr. Julie Levy, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, DAVBP
Dr. Julie Levy is the Fran Marino Endowed Distinguished Professor of Shelter Medicine Education at the University of Florida, where she focuses on the health and welfare of animals in shelters, feline infectious diseases, and humane alternatives for cat population control. She founded Operation Catnip, a community cat trap-neuter-return program that has spayed, neutered, and vaccinated more than 80,000 cats in Gainesville since 1998. A decade later, she joined Dr. Cynda Crawford to launch Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Program at the College of Veterinary Medicine. This educational and discovery initiative has a global impact on the care of homeless animals and served as the academic home for development of the Fear Free Shelters program. She later teamed up with Dr. Kate Hurley to start the Million Cat Challenge, a shelter-based campaign that saved more than 5 million cats in shelters across North America and then Maddie’s Million Pet Challenge to create transformative “communities of practice” that deliver access to care through humane community-centric programming-inside and outside of the shelter-to achieve the right outcome for every pet.
Dr. Rebecca Stuntebeck, MS (Becky)
Becky is the Facility Design and Outreach Veterinarian for the Koret Shelter Medicine Program at UC Davis. She has consulted with many shelters across the country as well as worked as a shelter veterinarian at two private shelters in Wisconsin. In addition to facility design her interests include shelter data, proactive population management, infectious disease prevention in shelters, and building relationships with folks across the sheltering field. Outside of work she enjoys petting kittens, getting outside, and reading. She lives in Wisconsin with her husband, daughter, 1 aged moggy, and 1 rowdy mutt.
Dr. Uri Donnett, DVM, MS, DABVP
Dr. Donnett is the Chief Veterinarian at the Dane County Humane Society in Madison, WI. Uri is board certified in Shelter Medicine Practice through the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. His veterinary interests include high quality/high volume spay/neuter, other shelter surgery, transport programs, epidemiology, and infectious disease in the shelter setting as well as high-quality low-cost medical care for rural and resource scarce shelters and communities. Uri has served on the board for the Association of Shelter Veterinarians since 2018.
WEBSITE LINK: https://maddiesfund-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_zkfLlQroQ1S8IGbqekfgAA

Online Course - 8/19/24 - Application Period for Fall 2024 Online Instructor-Led Courses Opens - Maddie's Fund
2024-08-19
Maddie’s Fund Instructor-Led Courses begin the week of September 16, 2024
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!
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- to 90- minutes.)
Final project

Class size is limited and the selection process is competitive.
THE FALL 2024 APPLICATION WINDOW IS MONDAY, AUGUST 19 – FRIDAY, AUGUST 30, 2024.
View Sample Application
The link to apply will be posted here on Monday, August 19, 2024.
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.
If you have any questions or any issues applying during the open application period, please email maddiesuniversity@maddiesfund.org.

Fall 2024 Course Offerings

Cat Adoption Team’s Fostering 4 Rock Stars
Feline Lifesaving: Essential Cat Programs for Shelters
Field Services: Community-Centered Programming
Field Services: Tools & Equipment
Foster Care for Adult Dogs
Harnessing People Power to Get Lost Pets Back Home
Humane Education: Tools & Techniques to Expand Your Reach
Marketing Communications 101: The Essentials of Community Connection
Pet Support Services: Culture, Collaboration, and Case Management
Shelter Clinic Management
Transport: Building Strong Partnerships Locally & Beyond

WEBSITE LINK: https://university.maddiesfund.org/Online-Instructor-Led-Courses

Webinar - 8/20/24 - Fostering rescue cats as health promotion - Getting 2 Zero
2024-08-20 19:00 - 20:00
Could fostering for animal rescue organisations have benefits for older adults as well as the animals they care for? This presentation will discuss research exploring the health promotion potential of cat fostering in Aotearoa New Zealand, the role of foster programmes in cat rescue, and the potential for more older people to be involved in fostering. Come along if you are interested in fostering, especially cat fostering, and the potential of involving more older adults as animal fosterers.
This event will be recorded and the recording will be available the day after the event.
Speaker: Christine Roseveare – Lecturer and Teaching Fellow, Massey University
Christine Roseveare is a Lecturer and Teaching Fellow in the School of Health Science at Massey University, in Aotearoa/New Zealand. She is currently pursuing her PhD, interdisciplinary research focused on the health promotion potential of fostering companion animals by older people. Christine holds a Master of Public Health , a Postgraduate Diploma in Education and Professional Development and a level 3 New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care (Companion Animals). Her research interests include health promotion, public health education, and the human-animal bond. She is a 2024 HOPE foundation scholar.
WEBSITE LINK: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_qmta4CVCSt6ApvT9CszWug#/registration

Webinar - 8/21/24 - APCC: Backpack Hazards: Protecting Pets from Hidden Toxins - ASPCAPro
2024-08-21 10:00 - 11:00
About this Webinar
The start of the school year is an exciting time for many families, but it can also pose unexpected dangers to their beloved cats and dogs. Backpacks are often filled with hidden hazards, such as ADHD medication, ibuprofen, toxic snacks, and even earbuds.
Join us for an informative and engaging session with Dr. Dzienisiewski as she highlights some of the most hazardous items lurking in children’s backpacks and discusses how to treat these toxicities in a clinical setting.
Takeaways
You’ll learn key information about:

Art supplies and their toxicity
Common medication ingestions, including albuterol inhalers, ADHD medications, and OTC medications, as well as how to treat them\nFood toxicities, including Xylitol-containing compounds, and how to manage them
Technology hazards, including batteries, earbuds, and AirTags

Suited For
This session is suited for veterinarians and veterinary technicians, but all are welcome.
Credits
This session has been submitted for one hour of RACE credit and is pending approval.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.aspcapro.org/training/webinar/apcc-backpack-hazards-protecting-pets-hidden-toxins

Webinar - 8/21/24 - Deep Dive Into Trauma and How It Affects Dogs and Their Humans with Shannon Riley - PPG (fee applies)
2024-08-21 14:00 - 15:00
The word “trauma” is being used a lot these days. It is great that there is more awareness that trauma exists and can affect a person or animals’ behavior. However, if a trainer does not truly understand how trauma affects the brain and behavior (of both the human and the animal) then may not be successful.
Whether your client has experienced trauma or if the animal you are training has experienced trauma, it will affect the way that they learn. The trauma can lead to anxiety, fear and/or stress in places you may not expect. It is important to understand how trauma effects leaning and it is important to have empathy and understanding when working with these humans and animals.
Learning Objectives

What is trauma really?
Understanding how trauma effects the brain and behavior (of humans and dogs)
How trauma can affect your client’s ability to train their dog
Ways to help dogs and humans that have experienced trauma

Your Presenter – Shannon Riley BA, RVT, CPDT KA, KPA-CTP
Shannon Riley is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Registered Veterinary Technician, Wellness Coach, and Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner. Shannon has been a pet lover all her life and a dog trainer for over 20 years. She has spent her life observing, caring for and training animals of all kinds. She has worked in the Bird Department at Marine World Africa USA, and worked as a handler and trainer for an African Serval Cat at Safari West, a private zoo in Santa Rosa, California. She has participated in behavior studies including observations of bald eagles and addax antelope through the San Francisco Zoo and Safari West.
Her education includes a Biology Degree, specializing in Zoology from Sonoma State. She is a Registered Veterinary Technician, a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner and a member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. Shannon has also spoken at the Annual APDT (Association of Professional Dog Trainers) conferences and covered topics such as “Compassion Fatigue” and “What Is Your Dog’s Currency?” In 2021, she spoke at Pet Professional Guilds Geek Week.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.petprofessionalguild.com/webinars-events/webinars/deep-dive-into-trauma-and-how-it-affects-dogs-and-their-humans-with-shannon-riley/

Webinar - 8/22/24 - Open Adoption Theory: Getting More Pets Home - CalAnimals
2024-08-22 09:00 - 10:30
While countless factors beyond our control are causing an influx of animals into our shelters, we do have some influence over the pace at which they leave. Most members of the public are not acquiring their pets from shelters and rescues and it is on all of us to change that. More adoptions mean more lives saved and more manageable populations in our shelters. Please join us for this important session with speaker Michael Keiley from the MSPCA to take a deep dive into Open Adoption Theory where we will discuss effective conversation-based adoption counseling and take a hard look at policies that drive people away. This one-hour presentation will be followed by a 30-minute opportunity for Q&A with our speaker who has successfully implemented this approach in placing more than 10,000 animals per year in loving homes.
Presenter: Michael Keiley, MSPCA
WEBSITE LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_fefhN37BTnCjM2JXCztWag

Webinar - 8/22/24 - Are you ready for CATastrophe? - National Kitten Coalition
2024-08-22 15:00 - 16:00
Join NKC for a special presentation by guest speaker Joanna Fortin, Director of Community Programs at The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria.
Disasters can affect anyone. Before the disaster hits, it is vital to prepare to care for your family, pets, fosters, and shelter animals during and after an emergency.
This session will offer participants a brief overview of emergency planning and response for animal shelters, rescue groups, and foster parents, with a focus on considerations for kittens. It will cover common emergencies to prepare for, information on creating an emergency plan for shelters and foster homes in advance of a crisis, and agencies and organizations that can help with the process. We will also touch on the concept of community animal response teams and how you can join or create a team within your community.
If you can’t attend the live presentation, don’t worry! Sign up anyway. A recording of this webinar will be accessible on NKC’s eLearning Center within two weeks of the live event.
Register now for this FREE webinar!
WEBSITE LINK: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/7917159812964/WN_G2HCzIoMS-uVGQp4olXkjA

Webinar - 8/22/24 - Do THIS! Not THAT! Differential Reinforcement for Common Behavior Problems with Karen Fine - FDSA (fee applies)
2024-08-22 15:00 - 16:00
How many times have you heard “What do you want them to DO instead”? I’ve said it a lot myself! Trained behaviors can be a valuable tool within a behavior modification plan. However, it is beneficial to adhere to certain details.
A differential approach is based on the principles of operant conditioning; a behavior is shaped by its consequences. The trainer provides positive reinforcement for desired behaviors which can create good habits and prevent bad ones.
Your dog’s state of mind and arousal level are important aspects of the DR approach. Implementing the acceptable trained behavior needs to be done under threshold to be effective. As with all DR behaviors, it is important that they be fluent with little to no latency and that they evoke a positive Conditioned Emotional Response (CER). That is why the way we train is important. For example, a trained SIT to avoid a leash correction will not carry the necessary positive CER that a dog that will SIT to gain something like food, praise, or play.
There are three different types of differential reinforcement. DRI – Incompatible. This is often the most difficult process to implement as it requires creating an incompatible behavior where the undesired behavior is completely impossible to perform. DRA- Alternative. This is likely the most common type of DR behavior implemented. The dog is reinforced for any alternative behavior other than undesired behaviors. DRO – Other. In this process, the dog can be reinforced for performing ANY behavior other than the undesired one.
This webinar will present DR behaviors that can be used for common problems: jumping on owner, jumping on guests, door darting, loose leash walking, frustration/demand behaviors, and reactivity stemming from fear, or anxiety.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com/index.php/self-study/webinars

Webinar - 8/27/24 - Emerging Zoonotic Fungal Infections You Need to Know - VetGirl (fee applies)
2024-08-27 09:00 - 10:00
There is a fungus among us. Now what?
In this 1-hour, VETgirl small animal webinar, Dr. Jeremy Gold, MD, MS will review several emerging zoonotic fungal infections that veterinarians may encounter in their clinics. Tune in as Dr. Gold reviews the epidemiology and clinical features of antimicrobial-resistant ringworm, cat-transmitted sporotrichosis, and other fungal infections of public health importance!
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 check out your options, including our new 14-day, no-commitment ELITE Trial.
WEBSITE LINK: https://vetgirlontherun.com/webinars/august-27-2024-emerging-zoonotic-fungal-infections-you-need-to-know/

Webinar – 8/27/24 – Fancy Footwork: Practical Handling and Training Solutions for the Entire Shelter – Dogs Playing for Life (fee applies)
2024-08-27 09:00 - 10:30
While playgroups are the foundation of our shelter training program, teaching shelter teams how to implement a generalized, effective, and enjoyable way to handle and train their dogs is another essential aspect of our canine programming! In this webinar, we will teach the fundamentals of our “Fancy Footwork” techniques that focus on achieving good leash manners through the use of your FEET instead of your hands. Come learn this unique and highly effective approach that promotes dogs happily walking softly by your side, offering tons of eye contact, and wowing adopters! This new approach to leash work will enhance your handling skills and increase your ability to train ALL dogs, even those that are highly aroused, stressed, fearful, or not motivated by food, all in an effort to improve quality of life and lifesaving for dogs living in shelters.
Additionally, we will teach you how to implement our critically important kennel routines. The kennel areas of our nation’s shelters can be one of the most challenging and distressing environments that dogs–and their handlers–ever face. DPFL kennel routines have been developed and taught to shelters across the country in an effort to combat these challenges and to provide safer and more successful ways for dogs and people to maneuver through the kennels.
This is a 1.5-hour presentation followed by a Q&A session. This webinar will NOT be recorded and is scheduled on EASTERN TIME.
WEBSITE LINK: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_HPGGabv0QBas_RhoNIA5vg#/registration

Webinar - 8/27/24 - Can’t We All Just Get Along? Living and Loving Life with Multiple Cats - ACVB (fee applies)
2024-08-27 16:00 - 17:00
Living with multiple cats can be utter purr-fection for some households. But what about those who just don’t get along? What cats are more likely to get along with other cats than others? The first step is knowing which cats will make a better match than others and how to appropriately introduce them. Next one must be keen at observing and interpreting feline body language to determine how well cats are tolerating each other’s presence. Finally a resource-enriched environment is key to long-term success. Attendees will learn how to best promote a life of harmony and happiness for the humans and felines in the multi-cat household, utilizing all of these skills.
Dr. Meghan Herron is the Senior Director of Behavioral Medicine, Education and Outreach at Gigi’s – A Shelter Organization dedicated to improving the lives of shelter dogs. Prior to her current position she spent over a decade as an Associate Professor in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences as head of the Behavioral Medicine Service at The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center. She graduated from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine and became board-certified as diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behavior after completing a residency at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. As a published author and seasoned international speaker, she has given lectures and seminars on animal behavior around the United States, Canada, Europe and Australia. Dr. Herron is the lead editor on the book “Decoding Your Cat” the long-anticipated sequel to “Decoding Your Dog” where the ultimate experts, The American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, explain common cat and dog behaviors and reveal how to prevent or change unwanted ones.
WEBSITE LINK: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/4007155174263547737

Webinar - 8/29/24 - Testicle Talk - Customer Service in the Animal Space - CalAnimals
2024-08-29 10:00 - 11:00
Customer Service training in Animal Welfare has often been an afterthought. So keenly focused on lifesaving programs, we sometimes neglect the human being at the other end of the leash. Seldom do we see curriculum on this topic at most conferences and when we do, it’s nothing new. We all assume everyone knows how to be nice, but it’s not about being nice, it’s about being effective in our communication with one another, volunteers, customers, and anyone else we encounter through the course of our work. It’s about legitimizing the feelings of others, finding words that impact the psyche and leave the other person feeling cared for, even when our answer might be no. This session will inspire attendees to really evaluate the training given to all staff/volunteers that interact with others. Often, we presume customer service is something our parents should have taught us, but that is not always the case. This session will be unique in that we will walk through conversations that we have routinely, but often fall short in doing so. This session is intended to provoke conversation, thoughts, and action.
This is not your normal customer service class!
Presenter: Gina Knepp, Michelson Found Animals
WEBSITE LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_UgfDgI0ZTAiUDENrxMBQyQ

Online Course – Starts 9/1/24 – Beginning Behavior Consulting Mentorship with Sarah Filipiak – IAABC (fee applies)
2024-09-01
Are you new to behavior consulting or thinking about starting work in behavior? Are you already consulting and looking for advice regarding more advanced cases? Are you looking for help with specific cases or kinds of cases? If you’ve thought about taking on, or are new to, cases such as aggression towards strangers, dog-dog reactivity, resource guarding and separation anxiety, or you just want to brush up on your behavior chops, this mentorship is for you.
This mentorship will help you:

Understand how to determine and acknowledge your skill level
Examine the difference between training and behavior modification
Understand the basic principles of behavior modification and how they apply to all situations
Understand how to communicate your expectations and clients’ options prior to accepting more challenging cases
Understand how to write behavior plans clients can follow
Explore how to motivate clients to implement plans requiring a heavy level of commitment and follow-through

Certified Dog Behavior Consultant Sarah Filipiak will share tips on coaching behavior clients, including case organization and communication, for maximum client compliance. She’ll also cover the risks inherent in tackling tricky behaviors and how to keep from getting in over your head while still expanding your training horizons. We’ll also take a look at training hierarchies and other tools that can help you solve your current challenging cases.
This program will explore evaluating, resolving, and managing problem canine behaviors through guided online discussions, sample case studies, video analysis, useful handouts, and more. In addition to the ongoing course interaction and support, you’ll meet weekly for face-to-face live online group support.
Come prepared with a client behavior case you would like to troubleshoot, or just join us to listen and learn.
Course Begins: September 1, 2024
Duration: 8 weeks
Instructor: Sarah Filipiak CDBC, BSJ
WEBSITE LINK: https://iaabcfoundation.org/courses/beginning-behavior-consulting-mentorship-with-sarah-filipiak/

Online Course - 9/2/24 - Cat Behavior Consulting Mentorship - IAABC (fee applies)
2024-09-02
Wherever you are in your cat behavior consulting career, we are pleased to offer a first-ever opportunity in the industry: a cat behavior consulting mentorship. This program will traverse the process of seeing private clients and evaluating and managing problem feline behaviors. You will also explore the logistical side: taking a client history, tracking success, client compliance and retention, and more. Through guided online discussions, sample case studies, useful handouts, and homework assignments, you will leave this mentorship with the knowledge necessary to become a consultant.
This course is designed for those who:

have a general knowledge of feline behavior
are familiar with basic behavior modification (any species)
are thinking of becoming a cat behavior consultant but aren’t sure how, where or when to begin
are currently seeing a limited number of clients but are looking for advice on taking more advanced cases
are looking for a place to share, bounce, and develop ideas for building a private cat consultation business

Some of the topics to be addressed include:

taking effective case histories, writing reports, and tracking progress
client communication, compliance and retention
building your consulting toolbox and organizing your processes
conducting in-person and remote consults
tips for protecting yourself physically, legally, and financially
case study review
discussion of a wide variety of unwanted feline behaviors
an opportunity to share your own cases and questions

… and more!
Working with mentor Katenna Jones, you will develop your own process that works for you when seeing clients.
Course Begins: September 2, 2024
Duration: 8 weeks
Instructor: Katenna Jones ScM, ACAAB, CCBC, CDBC, CPDT-KA
WEBSITE LINK: https://iaabcfoundation.org/courses/cat-behavior-consulting-mentorship/

Online Course – 9/4/24 – Return to Home Certification Workshop – Community Cats Podcast
2024-09-04 10:00 - 11:30
Leave all your preconceived notions about “dumped, abandoned, or unwanted” stray cats at the door! What if we presumed every stray cat who came to our shelters was a cherished pet with a loving home? How can we facilitate getting lost pets back to their owners without overwhelming current staff and volunteers, or tying up space with long stray holds? In this workshop, we will discuss simple, actionable ways that we can support owners of lost cats, be a resource to those who find cats, and increase the rate at which cats in our shelters are reunited with grateful families.
Workshop Overview:

Topic: Reuniting Stray Cats with Grateful Families
Presenter: Corinne Bourgoin, Shelter Operations Supervisor at the MSPCA
Cost: $10 (covered by the scholarship)
Duration: 1.5 hours, with an optional 15-minute Q&A session
Certificate: Earn a certificate after completing a short quiz
Networking: Access to a dedicated Facebook group for ongoing support and discussion

Registration is $10 and includes access to the recorded session, handouts, and certificate, as well as access to a Facebook discussion group. All attendees will receive a certificate after taking a short quiz.
For more information and to sign up go here.
Scholarships are available! Apply for a scholarship to cover the $10 registration fee at this link: https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/event-scholarships/
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/return-to-home-workshop/

Online Event – 9/7/24 – Neighborhood Cats TNR Certification Workshop – Community Cats Podcast (small fee applies)
2024-09-07 11:00 - 13:30
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/

Online Course - Starts 9/9/24 - Community Cats Program Management - University of the Pacific (fee applies)
2024-09-09
This innovative and comprehensive eight-week certificate course is designed to empower participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage community cat programs. Aimed at animal welfare professionals, veterinary students, animal control officers, nonprofit leaders, and community advocates, this course combines theory with practical applications to cover all aspects of community cat welfare. Through a blend of online lectures, interactive discussions, and real-world assignments, students will learn how to implement humane and effective strategies for managing community cat populations, ensuring their health and welfare while engaging positively with the communities they serve.
Modules include:

Introduction to Community Cats
Fundamentals of TNR
Community Engagement and Education (AKA “Marketing Module”)
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Volunteer Management and Community Involvement
Ongoing Management for Community Cats
Conflict Resolution and Community Relations (AKA “Customer Service Module”)
Funding and Sustainability

WEBSITE LINK: https://uc.pacific.edu/search/publicCourseSearchDetails.do?method=load&courseId=3508103

Online Event – 9/10/24 – National Shelter Medicine Rounds - UW Shelter Medicine Program
2024-09-10 12:30 - 13:30
There is a NEW way to register! We will no longer be emailing you with a new zoom link for every meeting. There is a ONE TIME registration link here through zoom!
National Shelter Medicine Rounds Registration Link
National Shelter Medicine Rounds is hosted by the University of Wisconsin Shelter Medicine Program and is open to any professional in the veterinary field who works in shelter medicine or who has an interest in learning more about shelter medicine.
Rounds provides an opportunity for discussions to be held on current topics in shelter medicine for continued learning and collaboration among shelter medicine professionals. Presenters are primarily interns, residents, and fellows of shelter medicine training programs, their faculty, program staff, and their alumni.
These meetings will be scheduled for the second Tuesday of every month, subject to change or cancellation if necessary.
Recordings and shared documents/links info:

Recorded rounds can be found at this box link: https://uwmadison.box.com/s/bdzl9zkkkcy5komx5cvkqc3nsmik9jc1 Some more formalized rounds will be recorded but many discussions will not be recorded in order better facilitate open and honest discussion. If you do not see a previous rounds on this document then it was not recorded.
Links/documents shared in the chat during rounds can be accessed at this box link: https://uwmadison.box.com/s/9aafkcezkivmnb569upycuvxjpbgftvx We will be saving any documents and links that are shared in the chat in this folder called ‘Links shared in chat’
You should be able to access these box folders as a guest at any time without a sign in necessary.

Zoom Meeting Link: https://uwmadison.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAvcO6gqDsuE9B_7YN-vvLTi0a5CVgAONJF#/registration

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
