Webinar - 1/21/26 - Lead Forward: A Fresh Start for Animal Welfare Leaders - NACA/Justice Clearinghouse
2026-01-21 10:00 - 11:15 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Step into the new year with clarity, confidence, and renewed purpose. Whether you’re leading a municipal shelter, running a nonprofit, or supporting a field team, this webinar will offer space to reset, refocus, and realign your leadership goals.
We’ll explore practical strategies to inspire your staff, set meaningful goals, and stay anchored to your mission—even as the landscape shifts around you. Because the animals—and the people who care for them—deserve your strongest, most intentional leadership yet.
This webinar has been certified by the National Animal Care & Control Association and is approved for 1 Continuing Education Unit.
Presenter: Spencer Conover
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.justiceclearinghouse.com/webinar/lead-forward-a-fresh-start-for-animal-welfare-leaders/

Webinar - 1/21/26 - Kitten Development–Fast Tracked - National Kitten Coalition
2026-01-21 13:00 - 13:30
Join us for this quick, 30 minute webinar covering the important milestones kitten caregivers need to know about. This live session will not only help you accurately determine the age of kittens, but it will also provide you with essential information to know what’s expected with for the first 12 weeks of a kitten’s development.
Gain the confidence to know what physical characteristics kittens should be showing as they grow and develop. You’ll also have a chance to ask questions!
Register now for this free webinar! This webinar will be recorded and made available through NKC’s eLearning soon after the live event.
Presenter: Rosemarie Crawford, LVT
WEBSITE LINK: https://kittencoalition.org/event/kitten-development-fast-tracked/

Online Event - 1/21/26 - Shelter Med LIVE: Behavior Belongs in Shelter Medicine: The Shelter Vet's Role in Behavioral and Emotional Health - UC Davis KSMP
2026-01-21 16:00 - 17:00
Behavior might have felt like a blip on the vet school radar, but in the shelter it’s a critical skill to develop and essential to helping animals cope. Care for an animal’s mental and emotional state is a part of a shelter veterinarian’s daily workload and one of the most important aspects to supporting whole animal health. As a shelter vet, only you can determine when a medical issue is behind behavior changes, legally diagnose conditions, and prescribe treatments, and you’re uniquely positioned provide guidance on balancing human and animal health and safety to staff, volunteers, adopters, community members, and colleagues caring for animals who need behavior support.
Join Drs. Cindi Delany, Emilia Gordon, and Sarah Mantovani on this episode of Shelter Med Live to explore the shelter veterinarian’s impact and often overlooked role in shaping and managing dog and cat behavioral and emotional health.
After this conversation, you’ll be ready to:

Clearly articulate the goals of behavior management and how those differ before and after the shelter stay
Identify the most common behavioral diagnoses in sheltered animals and best practices for medical management
Understand the shelter veterinarians’ role in pathway planning and behavioral decision making and how they can impact capacity for care

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

Roundtable - 1/22/26 - HASS Connect: Let's Talk Big Dogs - HASS
2026-01-22 11:00 - 12:00
You are invited every fourth Thursday of the month, to join fellow leaders from national, government, and non-profit animal welfare organizations for a strategic roundtable discussion focused on the most pressing challenges facing our field. From staffing shortages and volunteer engagement to community trust, and the evolving role of shelters, this session invites candid dialogue, shared learning, and collaborative problem-solving. Whether you’re leading a municipal agency, nonprofit organization, or national initiative, your insights and experiences are vital to finding solutions.
Our first session will be discussing one of the industries biggest issues – BIG DOGS! This will be an open discussion on what’s working, what isn’t, and what we haven’t tried.
Join us Thursday, January 22 at 1 p.m. CT!
WEBSITE LINK: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/eYjSHEXEQ–_PxoL4pH2_g#/registration

Online Event - 1/22/26 - Maddie's Monthly Behavior Connection - Pain and Behavior: A case-based talk - Maddie's Fund
2026-01-22 12:00 - 13:00
Pain and discomfort are often under-diagnosed in dogs with behavioral issues. This presentation will highlight why this happens, and reviews cases where pain was the cause of the behavior issues or made behavioral issues worse. This is happening in young dogs and dogs who may not show any typical signs of pain/discomfort, but rather express it as aggression and/or anxiety.
Speaker: Emily Levine, DVM, DACVB, Animal Behavior Clinic of New Jersey
About Maddie’s Monthly Behavior Connection:
Join us on the fourth Thursday of every month as we talk about dog and cat behavior – supporting pets in our community and animal shelters. Each month, we hear from speakers about topics of interest to our group, such as behavior medications, modifying animal behavior, assessing and improving animal welfare, and how organizations successfully provide behavior support to dogs and cats.
Who should join: Animal welfare staff and volunteers who are interested in dog and cat behavior, and everyone who works to keep pets out of shelters and in homes.
You only need to register once for all meetings: https://maddies.fund/MonthlyBehaviorRegistration
Can’t attend live? Register anyway and you will get a link to the recording within a day or two after each meeting.
All recordings and resources shared during the webcast will also be available in the Maddie’s Monthly Behavior Connection group on Maddie’s Pet Forum – https://maddies.fund/monthlybehaviorconnectionMPF
Maddie’s Fund does not share registration information.
The opinions expressed by webinar presenters are their own and do not necessarily represent those of Maddie’s Fund.
WEBSITE LINK: https://maddies.fund/MonthlyBehaviorRegistration

Webinar - 1/22/26 or 1/27/26 - New Laws for 2026 - CVMA
2026-01-22 17:30 - 19:00
With several new laws taking effect in 2026, it is important for veterinary practices to have a clear view of the legal landscape to ensure continuing compliance. This talk will cover new and important laws pertaining to veterinary practice, as well as new general employment laws that apply to California businesses. The course qualifies as continuing education credit for the purpose of California veterinarian and registered veterinary technician license renewal.
This course qualifies for 1.5 CEUs.
This webinar is open to veterinarians, veterinary technicians, veterinary hospital staff, and veterinary students only.
This course is complimentary to all CVMA members!
WEBSITE LINK: https://cvma.net/continuing-education/upcoming-ce/new-laws-for-2026/

Online Conference - 1/24/26 to 1/25/26 - Online Cat Conference 2026 - Community Cats Podcast (fee applies)
2026-01-24 10:00 - 17:00
Each year, the global Community Cats Podcast community comes together for this unique virtual event—no travel required!
Take part in two days filled with cat-centric content, speakers from a wide variety of animal welfare roles share their perspectives on the field, providing valuable insights to help you or your organization create a more humane world for community cats.
Attendees can take advantage of the interactive format, useful handouts, and get access to an exclusive Facebook group to network with other cat-focused volunteers and professionals.
This online conference features presentations from Adopt a Pet, Orphan Kitten Club, Tompkins Foundation for FeLV Advocacy, Kitty Cat Cafe and Adoption Lounge, Neighborhood Cats, International Cat Care, and the University of Tennessee’s Program for Pet Health Equity.
For a limited time, registration is just $50 and will give you access to the live event, recorded sessions afterward, speaker slides, handouts, and more. Use code TCC26EB at checkout to receive the discount. Early bird discounts end at midnight on December 25, 2025.
WEBSITE LINK: https://communitycatscentral.thinkific.com/courses/2026CatCon

Online Meeting - Mondays - Weekly Community Conversations #ThanksToMaddie - Maddie's Fund
2026-01-26 11:00 - 12:00
Maddie’s Fund hosts a weekly 50-minute Zoom call for animal well-being professionals. These calls are a collaborative space to share exciting new programs and research, discuss uncomfortable topics, connect with peers in the industry, and more, all while sharing a common goal of preserving the human-animal bond.
Who Should Join?
Executive directors, animal well-being leaders, shelter workers, pet support professionals, volunteers, rescue organizations and anyone who shares the common goal of preserving the human-animal bond.
Win Ca$h for Attending!
Each month, Maddie’s Fund will be giving away up to $5,000 in grants. You can enter to win each time you attend a call or watch on-demand during the month by completing the giveaway drawing entry forms shared in the chat during the calls.
Register Today
Join us each Monday at 11am PT/2pm ET to receive support and learn about innovative ideas other organizations across the country are seeing success with. If you registered prior to July 2025 or are new to these meetings, please use this link to register:
https://maddies.fund/CommunityConversationsRegistration2025
All calls are recorded and uploaded to the Community Conversations page on Maddie’s Pet Forum https://forum.maddiesfund.org/communityconversations
Please note: All views expressed on these calls are not necessarily endorsed by Maddie’s Fund.
WEBSITE LINK: https://maddies.fund/CommunityConversationsRegistration2025

Webinar - 1/29/26 - Advancing One Health Systems for Pet Families and Communities - UT One Health Initiative
2026-01-29 09:00 - 10:00
Tune in for a special seminar as we celebrate One Health Awareness Month! This virtual presentation by T’ Fisher examines how integrated One Health systems can improve outcomes for pet families while strengthening community health and resilience. Grounded in the One Health framework, the session highlights the importance of cross-sector collaboration among animal welfare, public health, veterinary medicine, and human services.
The presentation will describe the work of the Program for Pet Health Equity (PPHE) and its efforts to address structural and systemic barriers that limit access to care for pets and their families.
Key areas of focus include:

Development of integrated, cross-sector service models that support pet families experiencing economic, geographic, or social barriers
Strategic partnerships between animal welfare organizations and human-serving systems, including public health, housing, and social services
Education and workforce development initiatives aimed at reducing bias, increasing shared understanding, and strengthening collaboration across disciplines

Attendees will gain insight into applied One Health strategies that promote equity, prevent family separation, and support sustainable, community-centered approaches to animal and human wellbeing.
WEBSITE LINK: https://tennessee.zoom.us/meeting/register/GhGbJtnNTRWCSSdrccb8Zw#/registration

Webinar - 1/29/26 - What’s “Common” About Cruelty? Understanding Abuse and Neglect - NACA/Justice Clearinghouse
2026-01-29 10:00 - 11:15
The “What’s ‘Common’ About Cruelty?” webinar is designed to deepen the participants’ understanding of animal abuse and neglect, which can often be prevalent within communities. This webinar will delve into the complexities of animal crimes, emphasizing the importance of understanding the underlying issues and developing effective strategies to present a compelling and persuasive case, particularly in scenarios where jurors may not immediately grasp the severity of the facts.
This webinar has been certified by the National Animal Care & Control Association and is approved for 1 Continuing Education Unit.
Presenter: Betsy Biffl
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.justiceclearinghouse.com/webinar/common-courtesy-and-common-cruelty-understanding-and-neglect/

Webinar - 1/29/26 - The Puppy Puzzle: Data-driven Insights into America’s New Dogs - Life of Riley
2026-01-29 10:00 - 11:30
Current sources of data on U.S. puppy “creation” reveal how much isn’t known about where puppies come from. To help fill the gap, a survey of 4,000 people (selected to align with the U.S. Census demographics) who recently acquired a puppy offers insights into the breeds and sources of new puppies, owners’ acquisition journeys, satisfaction with both puppy and that puppy’s source, and more. Survey responses offer new data and insights that fill in knowledge gaps; identify issues and concerns that deserve further attention across animal sectors; and reveal the complexity and diversity of experiences among puppies and their people.
Speakers: Joyce Briggs and Valerie Benka
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/springpointpartners/the-puppy-puzzle-data-driven-insights-into-america-s-new-dogs

Webinar - 2/3/26 - The Fungus Among Us: Preventing, Diagnosing, and Treating Ringworm - UC Davis KSMP
2026-02-03 14:00 - 15:30
Ringworm stinks! Everyone in shelter medicine knows it, and many wrestle with it. But what we know about dermatophytosis—and how best to manage it—has evolved. A familiar challenge now comes with clearer science, smarter strategies, and better outcomes.
In this webinar, experienced shelter veterinarians share how new and ongoing research has transformed the way they diagnose, treat, and manage ringworm in shelter settings. Drawing from hands-on experience treating a lot of cats, they’ll break down updates on what works and how to avoid overcomplicated pathways that lead to increased LOS and unnecessary crowding.
You’ll walk away with practical, evidence-based guidance for building a consistent and effective ringworm management strategy, one that protects animal health and supports well-being during treatment—and preserves staff sanity.
By the end of this webinar, you’ll be able to:

Confidently distinguish true ringworm infections from look-alikes
Build an effective, streamlined treatment protocol, including how to determine cure
Support the well-being of animals and staff using insights from the newly updated Ringworm Management Guidebook

Approved for 1.5 hours of continuing education credit by RACE, CAWA, and NACA.
Presenters: Cynthia Karsten, DVM, DABVP (Shelter Medicine Practice), KSMP, Rebecca Stuntebeck, DVM, DABVP (Shelter Medicine Practice), Paws to Elevate, Erica Schumacher, DVM, UW Madison Shelter Medicine Program
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.shelterlearniverse.com/events

Online Event - 2/5/26 - Maddie's Monthly Foster Connection: Shelter Evacuation via Emergency Foster Homes - Maddie's Fund
2026-02-05 12:00 - 13:00
One day ahead of Hurricane Helene hitting Asheville, NC, Brother Wolf Animal Rescue orchestrated a shelter evacuation into emergency foster homes with 100 animals going out the door in just two hours and two-thirds of the emergency fosters never having fostered for the organization previously. This action turned out to be lifesaving, as their shelter was consumed by 12 feet of floodwaters that very night. With full shelters across the US and an increase in natural disasters (a hurricane in the NC mountains?!), every animal welfare facility can benefit from having a plan in place to quickly evacuate pets to the safety of emergency foster homes. Join the Brother Wolf team to learn how to prepare ahead of time, communicate effectively when an evacuation occurs, collaborate with your community for support, and oversee the logistics seamlessly. These same strategies can be used to place animals into emergency foster homes due to any crisis: full shelter, unexpected large intake, part of shelter under construction, etc. The Brother Wolf team will walk you through turning a crisis into an opportunity for community connection and lifesaving work, together.
Guest Speakers:
Leah Craig Chumbley, Executive Director, Brother Wolf Animal Rescue
Sara Groce, Director of Programs, Brother Wolf Animal Rescue
Megan Malek, Senior Coordinator of Volunteers & Fosters, Brother Wolf Animal Rescue
About Maddie’s Monthly Foster Connection:
Join us on the first Thursday of every month to discuss successful foster innovations and programs, collaborate with others in the field, answer questions and talk through complex foster-related issues.
Who should join: Foster managers, coordinators, volunteers and any staff who are interested in learning about what’s working in foster programs.
You only need to register once for all meetings: https://maddies.fund/MonthlyFosterRegistration
Can’t attend live? Register anyway and you will get a link to the recording within a day or two after each meeting.
All recordings and resources shared during the webcast will also be available in the Maddie’s Monthly Foster Connection group on Maddie’s Pet Forum https://maddies.fund/monthlyfosterconnectionMPF
Maddie’s Fund does not share registration information.
The opinions expressed by webinar presenters are their own and do not necessarily represent those of Maddie’s Fund.
WEBSITE LINK: https://maddies.fund/MonthlyFosterRegistration

Online Event – 2/5/26 – Live from the Ranch: Using Classical Conditioning... On Purpose – Karen Pryor Academy
2026-02-05 13:00 - 14:00
Ever wonder how animals learn so quickly from everyday experiences? Classical conditioning is constantly at work in animal training, shaping emotional responses long before behavior shows up. When we know how to recognize it, refine it, and use it with intentions, we can create stronger, more reliable learning.
Sign up to join Allie Bender, Emily Strong, and Ken Ramirez on Thu., 2/5, at 1:00 pm (PT) or get access to the recording.
WEBSITE LINK: https://learn.clickertraining.com/live-from-the-ranch#next

Online Course - 2/6/26 to 2/16/26 - Application Period for Spring 2026 Online Instructor-Led Courses - Maddie’s Fund®
2026-02-06 09:00 - 23:59
Spring 2026 Courses begin the week of March 9, 2026
Looking to implement a new program, learn more about a specific subject and create positive change for pets and people in your community? Maddie’s Fund® Online Instructor-Led Courses provide an interactive educational opportunity for those who are looking to benefit from the wisdom of established innovative programs. They’re the catalyst you need to take your programs and learning to the next level! All courses are free #ThanksToMaddie!
These courses require completion of:

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

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

Online Course – 2/7/26 – Neighborhood Cats TNR Certification Workshop – Community Cats Podcast (small fee applies)
2026-02-07 11:00 - 13:45
Ready to make a difference for feral and stray cats in your community? Join our expert instructors to learn the best practices for Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) and effective colony management. You’ll learn what TNR is, why it works, and how to address common challenges such as communicating with neighbors, preparing for trapping, conducting large-scale trapping operations, feeding, and providing winter shelter.
If you’re new to TNR, you’ll gain the essential skills needed to kickstart your TNR journey, while experienced trappers can refresh and sharpen their techniques.
Take advantage of the interactive format, extensive handouts, and real-life video footage from actual projects. Attendees will receive a certificate of attendance and access to a dedicated Facebook group for ongoing networking with fellow TNR advocates.
Led by experts from Neighborhood Cats, this 2.5-hour session includes an optional 15-minute Q&A. Registration is just $10.
This course/webinar/series/conference has been approved for Continuing Educational Units by the National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA).
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/events/tnr-certification-workshop-presented-by-neighborhood-cats-february-2026/

Online Event - 2/11/26 - The Roundtable: Justice in Action for Animal Welfare - The AAWA
2026-02-11 12:00 - 13:00
The animal welfare profession has made meaningful progress toward diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)—but real transformation requires going further. To create lasting change, we must look beyond DEI initiatives and examine the deeper systemic barriers that shape who has access to animal care, services, and leadership opportunities.
As a follow-up to our Justice in Action: Moving Beyond DEI in Animal Welfare webinar (October 21, 2025), this interactive roundtable invites participants to explore what justice in action looks like in practice. You’ll hear from peers and panelists who are embedding justice into their organizations’ everyday work—sharing candid insights, challenges, and strategies along the way.
Whether you lead an organization, manage teams, or work directly with communities, this discussion will provide a space to exchange ideas, spark collaboration, and co-create approaches to advancing justice across our field.
Participants will:

Discuss what “justice in action” looks like in practice
Explore examples of justice in action in the workplace
Share strategies to incorporate justice in action into organizational culture

Panelists:
Andrea Clara, Animal Care Team Lead, Oregon Humane Society
Katie Jarl, VP of Government Relations, Animal Policy Group
Jenny Rapinchuk, Animal Care Team Lead, Oregon Humane Society
Facilitated by Jasmin Robinson, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives, The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement
WEBSITE LINK: https://learning.theaawa.org/products/2-11-26-the-roundtable-justice-in-action-for-animal-welfare

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

Online Event - Monthly - Journey You Own Meditation Gathering - JYO
2026-02-11 17:00 - 17:45
Create a shared, supportive space to explore grounding practices.
The guided meditations happen every month and typically run 30-45 minutes. All are welcome to these very low-key sessions, with videos on or off, whatever feels most comfortable to you. No speaking is necessary unless you’d like to share at the end of the session.
Attendees register once and can attend any of the monthly meditation dates. Don’t forget to add the dates to your calendar to ensure you don’t miss out on any sessions.
About the Host
Jyothi Robertson is a student of meditation practice for 40+ years and trauma-sensitive grounding practices formally for the past three years. She was raised by parents who practice meditation and lead spiritual teachings for members of their Indian community. She began pursuing her own formal exploration of spirituality as an anthropology major at Princeton University and conducted fieldwork for her thesis while living at an ashram (spiritual center) in India in 1996. As a veterinarian, she is interested in highlighting the spiritual connection between all living beings.
Jyothi has completed certifications in trauma-sensitive mindfulness, advanced trauma-sensitive meditation, deep listening, DEI, and since 2019, has been receiving training in Buddhist meditation practices and philosophy. As a student learning meditation, she is interested in exploring these practices with others in community.
WEBSITE LINK: https://jyo.world/meditation-gathering/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Webinar - 2/26/26 - Expanding Access to Veterinary Care Through Innovative Financing: Evidence-Based Insights for One Health Systems Supporting Pet Families - PPHE
2026-02-26 10:00 - 11:00
Financial barriers are the leading reason pet families delay or forgo veterinary care—often resulting in preventable suffering and broader impacts on human and community health. This webinar will present findings from a recent peer-reviewed study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, examining how veterinary clinics and their clients utilized a no-credit-check, third-party managed installment financing option to increase access to veterinary care. The research offers real-world evidence on how flexible payment solutions can change care decisions and help families pursue lifesaving treatment they otherwise could not afford.
Read the Research (Pre-Reading Encouraged): https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2025.1675999
Featured Presenters:
Heather Cammisa, MA, CAWA, Open Door Veterinary Collective
Amber Gilmore, CEO, P.E.T.S.
REGISTER TODAY (Registration is free but required.): https://tiny.utk.edu/Feb26OneHealthCommunityWebinar

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