Shelter Learniverse

Webinar - 7/9/24 - Unleashing Potential: The Canine CellMates Model for Developing and Implementing a Human-Canine Rehabilitation Program - NACA
2024-07-09 10:00 - 11:15 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Canine CellMates is an innovative 501(c)(3) that strives to create meaningful, positive connections between people facing felony charges and rescue dogs saved from local municipal shelters.
Both in and out of custody, Canine CellMates facilitates programs in Fulton County (Atlanta), Georgia, that utilize the healing power of shelter dogs to break the cycle of incarceration for individuals in our community, providing a safe environment for meaningful self-reflection and personal growth.
The in-custody program serves pre-trial inmates in the Fulton County Jail. For ten weeks, the program participants live and work alongside the dogs they train, using positive reinforcement training methods only. During their time together, the men and dogs form meaningful bonds and develop essential life skills. At the end of the 10-week cycle, they graduate in a joyful ceremony that showcases their progress.
The out-of-custody program, called “Beyond the Bars,” is an intensive, year-long program that serves as an alternative to a prison sentence for selected individuals—helping men return home to their families while giving them the life skills and the safe space to practice making better decisions and building a better future.
Having explored the structural and penological underpinnings of this model in an earlier session, we focus here on how programs like this can be set up and function in other jurisdictions for the ultimate benefit of individual defendants and their families, rescued animals, and the community as a whole.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.justiceclearinghouse.com/webinar/unleashing-potential-the-canine-cellmates-model-for-developing-and-implementing-a-human-canine-rehabilitation-program/

Webinar - 7/9/24 - Organizational Disaster Checklist Update and Review - CalAnimals
2024-07-09 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
The CalAnimals Emergency Management Committee created a terrific resource called the Organizational Disaster Preparedness Checklist, sponsored by Hills. CalAnimals has added some useful sections and updated current information and links. Please join us as we take a refreshing look at the Checklist and drive into the updates. The Checklist is designed to help local animal welfare agencies by providing ideas for protocols, contracts, networking, and support during a disaster. Taught by CalAnimals Disaster Program Manager Ryan Soulsby and Principal Consultant John Peavler of Humane Innovations.
If you missed the original webinar in 2021, here is the link: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/FExuaOLi8-JLsi2dguxPAGfMvEk2S3PnZ5z4WKG4cs2lWgz7NJP4Tedz4pQqbqeQ.GQ1tMFbhjjawLD0p. This training will give a brief overview of the original Checklist, but primarily focus on the new sections and updates.
WEBSITE LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Dwyl3aRtQsaT28qso7j4KA#/registration

Online Event - 7/9/24 - YouTube Live: Management of Skin Lesions in Chronic Allergic Disease - VETGirl
2024-07-09 09:00 - 09:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
What’s the itch all about?
In this complimentary, 30-minute VETgirl–Elanco YouTube LIVE event, Dr. Michael Rossi, DVM, MNS, DACVD will review some of the understanding behind the management of skin lesions in chronic allergic disease. Tune in as Dr. Rossi focuses on strategies to reduce these lesions for a better long-term outcome in clinical management.
Thanks to sponsorship from Elanco, this webinar is FREE to all! (Remember: you must be logged in as a free Basic, ELITE Trial or ELITE member to register for the live event)
WEBSITE LINK: https://vetgirlontherun.com/webinars/july-9-2024-management-of-skin-lesions-in-chronic-allergic-disease/

Webinar - 7/9/24 - DPFL Playgroups: The Why, the What, and the How - Dogs Playing for Life
2024-07-09 08:00 - 11:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Learn about all the ways in which DPFL Playgroups are transforming shelters all across the country! This webinar (formerly offered in three parts) will cover the Why, the What, and the How of playgroups. Attendees will be introduced to dynamic video examples and impactful data and experiences from some of the over 350 shelters who have embraced the power of letting shelter dogs play! This is a 3.5-hour presentation with Q&A at intervals throughout. This webinar will not be recorded. This course has been pre-approved for 3 continuing education unit (CEU) credits for Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) by The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement (AAWA) and by the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP).
WEBSITE LINK: https://dogsplayingforlife.com/webinars/

Online Course – Starts 7/8/24 – What Is a Dog? The Ethology of Our Best Friend – IAABC (fee applies)
2024-07-08 | Virtual
Ethology is the scientific and objective study of animal behavior under natural conditions. In short, it’s the study of how animals behave in the real world.
This course takes a deep dive into our understanding of dogs as a species, and therefore how we live with them and train them, how they learn, and how we can best solve behavioral issues if they arise.
To address these questions we will consider:

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

You will come away from this course with an even deeper appreciation and wonder for these amazing animals we live with. You’ll never look at dogs—or dog training—quite the same way again.
Course Begins: July 8, 2024
Duration: 4 weeks
Instructor: Kristina Spaulding, PhD, CAAB
** IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT ONLINE WEEKLY MEETINGS **

Auditors do not attend online meetings
Meetings are not recorded
Meetings take place on Mondays at 1:00 pm Eastern (first meeting July 15th)
Meetings are 1 hour in duration
There are 4 meetings for this course

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

Webinar - 6/27/24 - Recognizing and Understanding Bias for the Animal Welfare Professional - NACA/Justice Clearinghouse
2024-06-27 12:00 - 13:15 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Our brains are amazing at making connections, doing work, and making decisions without us ever realizing it. Like when you drive home and realize as you’re parking that you don’t really remember the drive – yup – your unconscious brain played navigator so you could zone out a bit. However, these unconscious connections and processes can have a lasting effect on how you do your job.
Join us as we discuss different types of bias and how they unconsciously invade your decisions and actions on and off the job.

Learn to identify 5-8 different bias types
Understand how bias and cynicism can play off of each other;
That bias, while often thought of as a negative, is actually an evolutionary necessity that we can earn to identify and work on
And how to create a shared language around bias so your entire team can work on being more aware of these unconscious traps.

About the Presenter
Officer Jace Huggins has been an enforcement officer and animal care professional for more than 15 years, serving in a diverse set of roles with agencies throughout California. As an Animal Care Manager for Placer SPCA, he oversaw the husbandry and care of all animals in the shelter. He then became an animal control officer for the City of Sacramento and in time, earned the title of Chief Animal Control Officer. He recently took on the role of Vice President and Chief of Humane Law Enforcement at San Diego Humane Society. His team services a population of just over 2,500,000. Jace directs, coordinates, and evaluates Humane law activities including the enforcement of laws related to animal protection and the sheltering of animals; develops and implements animal control programs and field enforcement policies; and assists with the coordination of division activities with the 13 cities that SDHS contracts with. One of his proudest accomplishments is the development of the Sacramento P.A.W.S. (Promoting Animal Welfare and Safety) program, which includes volunteer field responders for low-risk/high-education need kitten calls, a no barrier resource program for owners, and a door-to-door resource program led by officer/volunteer teams. He works diligently on innovative programs that focus on keeping pets in their homes and providing owners with non-judgmental, low/no barrier access to resources. Jace prioritizes inclusion in animal welfare, serving on multiple DEI committees. He was a trainer for the City Of Sacramento Police Academy, serves as a board member for NACA, and is a law enforcement trainer with the Humane Society of the United States.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.justiceclearinghouse.com/webinar/recognizing-and-understanding-bias-for-the-animal-welfare-professional/

Webinar - 6/27/24 - Animal Disaster Response & Preparedness: An Overview - CalAnimals
2024-06-27 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Disasters come in a variety of forms and can have wide-ranging implications for the communities we serve. Taught by CalAnimals Disaster Program Manager Ryan Soulsby and Principal Consultant John Peaveler of Humane Innovations, this course provides an overview of preparedness and response, including the unique challenges faced by Animal Care and Control Professionals.
WEBSITE LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_8hShtDlPS-WklTIf9EKPsw#/registration

Webinar - 6/26/24 - Circle of Care: Amputation Pain Solutions & Home Recovery Insights for Amputee Pets & Their People - HSVMA
2024-06-26 17:00 - 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Amputations are major surgeries that are painful not only intraoperatively, but can also be painful for a fairly long time post-operatively. The longer recovery time from pain is due to the large areas of soft tissue involvement at the surgery site and the severing of numerous, some fairly large, nerves. The latter initiates neuropathic pain, which can be difficult to control. If the amputation is done because of a painful lesion, the pre-existing pain will exacerbate the intra- and post-operative pain. Dr Grubb will discuss pre-, intra-and post-operative analgesic strategies.
Attendees will learn about the most immediate concerns that pet parents have when their dog or cat has had a limb amputation. The goal is to encourage discussion before and after surgery, in order to facilitate a smoother recovery with less emotional burden on the pet parent as well as the veterinary team.
Learning Objectives:

Review the normal pain pathway
Discuss the changes in the pain pathway with pre-existing pain
Define neuropathic pain and the role in post-amputation pain
Explore pre-, intra-and post-operative analgesic strategies
Develop tools to address the important discussion points for the pet parent such as potential mobility challenges and realistic expectations during and after recover

This webinar is FREE for all attendees.
1.5 hours of RACE CE credits (medical) will be available for HSVMA members only (pending approval).
Not yet a member? Join HERE!
WEBSITE LINK: https://hsvma.memberclicks.net/webinar-circle-of-care-amputations

Online Event - 6/26/24 - Ask NKC- Q&A Session - National Kitten Coalition
2024-06-26 16:00 - 17:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Ask National Kitten Coalition’s kitten experts, Dr. Emily Coleman and Susan Spaulding, aka ‘The Nation’s Kitten Mom,’ your most pressing kitten questions!
We recommend that you submit your questions during registration, but we will allow you to submit them live during the webinar. Any questions posed during the conference should be framed in a generalized manner to ensure that responses remain informative and do not constitute personalized medical advice.
If you think of questions after registration, you can also submit questions anytime before the webinar using this link – https://forms.gle/DPsr9vseSfK3k2VaA
Disclaimer:
The information provided during this webinar is for general educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Attendees should consult with their own veterinarians or other qualified professionals regarding specific cases or medical conditions.
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/9617158850716/WN_TR1QWCeWQ_u0pSp3vT1bYQ

Webinar - 6/26/24 - Caring for the People that Care for Animals: Prioritizing Staff Well-being in Animal Welfare - Best Friends
2024-06-26 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Mental health is a challenge for shelter and rescue staff, many struggling with burnout and compassion fatigue, and the data proves it. Roughly 90% of shelter staff reported high levels of compassion fatigue according to a 2023 Best Friends study titled “Quality of Life Assessment: A study of U.S. animal shelter staff well-being.”
As the demands of animal welfare continue to intensify, it becomes crucial to recognize and address the toll it can take on the people working tirelessly behind the scenes. Often, organizations make it the individual’s responsibility to solve this challenge by providing self-care tips or meditation apps. While these are helpful tools, the vital topic of how to find staff well-being solutions organization-wide is often overlooked. We’re addressing exactly that in this live webinar featuring

Michael Keiley, CAWA, Vice President of the Animal Protection Division for MSPCA-Angell in Massachusetts
Alisha Vianello, Executive Director of Gateway Pet Guardians in Illinois
Amanda Loellke, Adoption and Foster Manager, Gateway Pet Guardians, East St. Louis, IL
Leah Craig Chumbley (Fieser), Executive Director of Brother Wolf Animal Rescue in North Carolina

This panel will be moderated by licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Amanda Weiss, PsyD, who consulted with Best Friends staff on the 2023 study.
These experts will share their experiences recognizing the need for change in their organizations to prioritize staff well-being and delve deep into the challenges along with practical solutions to achieve it. Register now and join live on June 26 at 5pm ET.
WEBSITE LINK: https://bestfriends-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/7117134723360/WN_W91ZBvhUTGqEcUIa9XNgIA#/registration

Webinar - 6/26/24 - Advancements in Neonatal Kitten Care - Maddie's Fund
2024-06-26 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Neonatal kitten care has seen significant advancements over the last decade. At the same time, social media had created thousands of influencers sharing information on the best ways to save these little ones. This information is often conflicting. In 2023, several major shelter medicine programs and animal advocacy groups updated their guidelines for caring for neonatal kittens which added even more confusion and debate about the best ways to care underage kittens.
Join Dr. Julie Levy and Marnie Russ for a review of these changes and clarification about feeding schedules, weaning age, temperature regulation, euthanasia rates, medical interventions, combining litters, socialization, and adoption. Come away knowing how you and your shelter can provide neonatal kittens with the best possible care.
This webinar has been pre-approved for 1.0 Certified Animal Welfare Administrator continuing education credits by The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement and by the National Animal Care & Control Association. It has also been submitted for approval for 1 hour of continuing education credit in jurisdictions which recognize the Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE) approval.
Guest Speakers:
Dr. @Julie Levy, Fran Marino Distinguished Professor of Shelter Medicine Education at the
University of Florida
@Marnie Russ, National Kitten College Program Administrator, National Kitten College/Animal Welfare League of Arlington
WEBSITE LINK: http://maddies.fund/WebcastRegistrationNeonatalKittens

Webinar - 6/25/24 - Data Driven Information on Recruiting and Retaining Shelter Veterinarians - CalAnimals
2024-06-25 09:30 - 10:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
As follow up to the 2023 Access to Veterinary Care in CA Shelters survey, which documented the degree and impact of the veterinary shortage on shelter welfare and lifesaving, Drs. Hurley and Scarlett conducted a follow up survey to understand what factors attract (and repel) veterinarians from working in shelters. In this webinar, information from both state and national studies will be presented that highlight factors important to shelter veterinarians and provide shelter leaders with actions to improve their ability to recruit and retain veterinary professionals.
Presenters:
Jennifer Scarlett, DVM, San Francisco SPCA
Kate Hurley, DVM, UC Davis Koret Shelter Medicine Program
WEBSITE LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_06kG9nJPS-eIrPcLw0RqJQ#/registration

Webinar - 6/25/24 - Embracing Diversity: Creating Inclusive Spaces in the Pet Professional Industry - Fear Free
2024-06-25 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
At Fear Free, we believe that everyone deserves to feel welcome, valued, respected, and protected in all aspects of life, especially at work. A Fear Free work environment strives to promote safety for both people and animals, allowing them to express themselves authentically and to feel valued, safe, and secure while doing so.
Join us for our upcoming webinar on June 25, at 12 p.m. ET hosted by Dr. Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, FFCP to discuss the importance of inclusivity in the workplace and how it leads to better care for pets, owners, and professionals in the industry. Our diverse panel of experts will share their experiences and best practices for fostering a culture of acceptance and support within your community, including support for the LGBTQIA+ community.
During this webinar, we will discuss:

Understanding the importance of recognizing and celebrating diverse identities
Effective practices and policies that promote a culture of acceptance and support
How inclusivity in the workplace leads to better care for pets
Practical steps to foster a Fear Free environment that values the emotional wellbeing of both people and animals

WEBSITE LINK: https://fearfreellc.webinargeek.com/embracing-diversity-creating-inclusive-spaces-in-the-pet-professional-industry

Webinar - 6/22/24 - The Drop Trap: A Trapper’s Best Friend - Community Cats Podcast
2024-06-22 11:00 - 13:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Community Cats Podcast will host a free webinar for anyone looking to help outdoor cats. Presented by Neighborhood Cats, The Drop Trap: A Trapper’s Best Friend will take place on June 22, 2024 from 2:00-4:00 PM ET.
The webinar will cover everything from basic setup and deployment to advanced techniques for effective trapping. The presentation will also include tips on how to use a drop trap safely and effectively, as well as how to troubleshoot common problems that trappers may encounter.
This webinar has something for everyone, from beginner friendly advice to expert-level tips. Anyone with an interest in helping outdoor cats is encouraged to attend. No experience required.
The webinar is free to attend. Anyone interested can learn more and register via the website here.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/events/the-drop-trap-a-trappers-best-friend-presented-by-neighborhood-cats-june-2024/

Webinar - 6/20/24 - Behavior Medications, Part 2: Beyond The Basics - FDSA (fee applies)
2024-06-20 18:00 - 19:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
In this webinar, we will build on the information presented in “Intro to Behavior Medications” to take your knowledge to the next level. Delve into the nitty-gritty details of behavioral pharmacology as it relates to the following:

Factors that influence medication choices for aggression, anxiety, etc. – which drug is best for different situations?
Combination therapy (using multiple meds together)
Case studies and examples for discussion

We will also discuss specific considerations for performance dogs, including the impact of behavior meds on learning and memory, and possible ethical questions that may arise when deciding whether or not to medicate a dog who is actively showing and competing.
Note: This webinar is back by popular demand. Please check your webinar library before purchasing.
Presenter: Jennifer Summerfield, DVM
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com/index.php/self-study/webinars

Webinar - 6/20/24 - Future of Field Services: Community Engagement for Pet & Public Safety - HASS
2024-06-20 15:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
Field services officers are the first responders of animal welfare for every single community. In order to rise above the “neighborhood dog catcher” stigma, a new approach rooted in not just public and pet safety, but community advocacy is required. Early research shows, when ACO’s are collaborate directly with their local shelter, more pets and people remain united, stay safe and shelters can avoid unnecessary intake.
Join panelist Dr. Josh Fisher, Director of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Services/Police Department and Annette Ramirez, Los Angeles Animal Services Assistant General Manager to discuss their experience in field services and how the role of ACOs have evolved over the years and what shelters can do to prioritize building a strong partnership with field services.
WEBSITE LINK: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/7816739797796/WN_ZoyLjLiUTY2Mh1i3noj0pQ#/registration

Webinar - 6/20/24 - Intro To Behavior Medications: What Are They, And How Can They Help? - FDSA (fee applies)
2024-06-20 15:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Do you have a dog with behavior issues, or work with client dogs who do? If so, join us for a fun and informative discussion! You may already know how to address issues like anxiety, reactivity, or aggression from a training standpoint, but many dog owners and trainers are unsure about how medication might fit into the picture.
This webinar will provide an overview of the most common medications used to treat behavior problems in dogs. Our focus will be on practical, “real-world” information including:

How to know if your dog might benefit from medication
Goals of using meds in behavior cases
Different classes of drugs and how they work
Natural supplements and calming aids

Can be taken on its own, or as a lead-in to Part 2 for those who want ALL THE DETAILS!
Note: This webinar is back by popular demand. Please check your webinar library before purchasing.
Presenter: Jennifer Summerfield, DVM
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com/index.php/self-study/webinars

Webinar - 6/20/24 - Northern Tier Shelter Initiative Zoomies: Putting the ASV Guidelines into Action - ASPCAPro
2024-06-20 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
The Association of Shelter Veterinarians’ Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters is a guide for animal shelters to provide care in a way that creates positive experiences while also mitigating negative ones. You know the “what” and the “why,” so now come learn about the “how.” Join us as we highlight sections of the guidelines and discuss actionable items you can take to implement the guidelines in your shelter. This session is part of a series to view part 1, The Updated ASV Guidelines: Practical Guidance for Animal Welfare Organizations, click here.

To register for this webinar, you will need to log in to ASPCA Learn, our new learning management system. Create an account now and register for the webinar. If you’re having trouble accessing your account, browse the ASPCA Learn FAQ for troubleshooting tips or email learn@aspca.org for technical support.

Takeaways

Learn more about specific sections, including population management, facilities, and behavior.
Discover customizable strategies to elevate welfare with multiple options based on your shelter’s unique challenges.
Learn about resources available to assist in accomplishing goals related to the Guidelines.

Presenter: Lauren Overman, DVM, Senior Director, Shelter Medicine Services, ASPCA
Suited For
Animal welfare leaders, staff, and volunteers working in, or with, animal shelters, rescues, or clinics within the Northern Tier (Alaska, Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, Washington, and Wisconsin), but all are welcome.

Credits

The ASPCA is an approved provider of content, which enhances professional competence and aligns with the 5 domains of the CAWA Exam specifications.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.aspcapro.org/training/webinar/northern-tier-shelter-initiative-zoomies-putting-asv-guidelines-action

Online Training - 6/19/24 - Surrender Prevention Certification Workshop Presented by Dr. Rachel Geller - Community Cats Podcast (small fee applies)
2024-06-19 16:00 - 17:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Community Cats Podcast is teaming up with renowned cat behaviorist Dr. Rachel Gellar to present a certification workshop designed to keep more cats and families together.
The Surrender Prevention Certification Workshop will be held on Wednesday, June 19 from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM ET.
Registration is $10. Folks interested in attending the session can learn more here and register here.
The workshop aims to help anyone on the front lines of animal shelters or rescues, who routinely work with families thinking about giving their cat or kitten over to the shelter for reasons related to feline behavior. This session will offer more information about surrender prevention, what it is and why it works, and some common interventions.
Instructed by Dr. Rachel Geller, she will share real examples, with proven results, setting the potential surrenderer and cat on the road to a happy relationship together and keeping the cat in her home. Attendees will receive a certificate after completing a short quiz.
But that’s not all! Everyone who registers will also receive access to four (4) mini-courses, perfect for anyone looking to keep more cats in homes, regardless of experience level! Mini-courses will cover common behavior topics, such as:

Litter box issues
Scratching concerns
Introducing your new cat to your home
Introducing your new cat to your resident cat

WEBSITE LINK: https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/events/surrender-prevention-certification-workshop-june-2024/

Webinar - 6/18/24 - Navigating the Employment Landscape: Understanding Agreements, Bonuses, and Corporate Contracts for Employee Success - VETGirl (fee applies)
2024-06-18 17:00 - 18:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Contract clarity? Yes, please!
In this 1.5-hour, VETgirl practice management webinar, Charlotte A. Lacroix, DVM, JD demystifies the intricate landscape of employment agreements, retention bonuses, non-competes, and corporate contracts. Whether you’re an employee seeking clarity or an employer aiming to enhance your workforce management practices, this webinar promises valuable insights into optimizing the employee experience within the realm of contractual obligations.
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/june-18-2024-navigating-the-employment-landscape-understanding-agreements-bonuses-and-corporate-contracts-for-employee-success/

Webinar - 6/18/24 - The Roundtable: Setting Boundaries & Combating Burnout - The AAWA
2024-06-18 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Caring for animals and helping the people who support them can feel daunting. Add in a staffing shortage and you’re officially overwhelmed. How do you prioritize when you don’t have enough help or time? When should you take a break or push forward? How do you say ‘no’ to the next task so you can say ‘yes’ to your well-being?
Learn how panelists across different animal welfare sectors manage wellness and boundaries when staff and morale are constantly shifting. This roundtable is ideal for staff interested in adding coping strategies to their wellness toolkit.
The Roundtable Panel:

Allison Cardona, California State Director, Koret Shelter Medicine Program
Jessica Umunnabuike, Senior Talent & Diversity Specialist, San Diego Humane Society
Kristen Williams Community Events & Outreach Manager, Forsyth Humane Society

Moderated by:

Jasmin Robinson, Director of DEI Initiatives, The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement

This roundtable has been approved for 1 Certified Animal Welfare Administrator continuing education credit.
WEBSITE LINK: https://learning.theaawa.org/p/RT-6-18-24

Webinar - 6/15/24 - Talks with Dogs: How Our Body Language Affects Our Communication with Dogs with Suzanne Clothier - PPG (fee applies)
2024-06-15 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
The more details we have the easier it is to list and market the event*: Books and videos help us understand canine body language what this or that means, but where is the focus on handler body language? Handler behavior is as complex and as nuanced as canine body language. When the handler is sending mixed, inconsistent or contrary messages, the dog can end up confused or frustrated. Greater awareness of how these elements can and do affect the dog can improve training and relationships, and help avoid accidentally contributing to a dog’s anxiety, fear, reactivity or just flat out exasperation with humans. Dogs would really appreciate it if humans could learn to mean what they say, and know what they are really saying, and communicate clearly with intent and awareness. Suzanne provides video, examples, details and practical tips for helping handlers make adjustments. Whether you’re a pro who needs new ways to help clients be their best, or a dog loving human who wants to communicate more clearly while removing common roadblocks to understanding, this webinar is for you!
Learning Objectives
Attendees will learn to observe these elements of handler body language, and be able to recognize them in themselves and others, plus practical tips for helping handlers make adjustments for clearer, consistent communication:
• Meta-messaging
• Balance
• Postures & gestures
• Orientation
• Breathing & blink rate
• Expression & voice
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.petprofessionalguild.com/webinars-events/webinars/talks-with-dogs-how-our-body-language-affects-our-communication-with-dogs-with-suzanne-clothier/

Training - 6/15/24 - IN PERSON Lecture Series: Compassionate Care: Integrating Fear Free Practices and Behavioral Wellness in Veterinary Medicine - San Diego Humane Society (fee applies)
2024-06-15 09:30 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | San Diego Humane Society, 5500 Gaines St, San Diego, CA, 92110, United States
Join Tabitha Kucera from Chirrups and Chatter in this three-part fear free and low stress handling lecture series recommended for veterinary professionals!
Tabitha is an Elite Fear Free and Low-Stress Handling Certified Registered Veterinary Technician, VTS (Behavior), Certified Cat Behavior Consultant, and Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner.
Part 1: Behavior is Medicine: Integrating Behavioral Guidance in Wellness Appointments
60 minutes
Explore effective strategies for initiating conversations about behavior, responding to client concerns, and providing practical guidance to manage and prevent behavioral issues.
Part 2: Changing Perspective, Fear Free: A Kind Approach
90 minutes
Learn about the concept of Fear Free and understanding the emotions of fear, anxiety, and stress in our beloved cat and dog patients. Discover practical tools and approaches, including a considerate approach, gentle control, and a touch gradient, that significantly reduce fear, anxiety, and stress in our patients.
Part 3: Decoding Feline Fury: Understanding and Managing Cat Aggression
60 minutes
Identify potential causes of aggression in cats and learn practical tips for managing aggression.

This workshop takes place in person at San Diego Humane Society’s San Diego Campus and has a $75 program fee.
WEBSITE LINK: https://secure.sdhumane.org/site/Calendar/175881528?view=Detail&id=139627

Online Conference – 6/13/24 – The Solutions Summit – The AAWA (fee applies for non-members)
2024-06-13 07:00 - 13:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
This online event will inspire you to continue thinking outside the proverbial “box” — and, indeed, to think outside your shelter walls — to address our most pressing challenges. In four power-packed sessions, your colleagues will be digging into telehealth, inclusivity, employee retention, and the new generation of leaders.
Free for members of The Association.
WEBSITE LINK: https://learning.theaawa.org/solutions-summit

Webinar - 6/9/24 - The Cats Out of the Bag! What You Need to Know About Feline Dentistry - VetGirl
2024-06-09 17:00 - 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
In this complimentary, 1-hour VETgirl–Elanco webinar, Dr. Jessica Johnson, DAVDC will use case examples to discuss common oral pathologies in cats. Tune in as she reviews tooth resorption, periodontal disease, and buccal bone expansion, as well as the recommended treatments, which include multimodal pain control for your feline patients!
Thanks to sponsorship from Elanco, the recording of this webinar will be available to view free and On-Demand until September 9, 2024.
WEBSITE LINK: https://vetgirlontherun.com/webinars/june-9-2024-the-cats-out-of-the-bag-what-you-need-to-know-about-feline-dentistry/

Online Conference – 6/8/24 to 6/9/24 – Online Kitten Conference – CCP and National Kitten Coalition (fee applies)
2024-06-09 07:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
The Community Cats Podcast, in collaboration with The National Kitten Coalition, is thrilled to announce the upcoming Online Kitten Conference scheduled for June 8-9, 2024.
This virtual event will feature an array of insightful sessions covering critical topics such as neonatal kitten care, enrichment strategies, and socialization techniques. Participants engaged in shelter or rescue work will find sessions on foster recruitment and development, sanitation best practices in shelter environments, and innovative fundraising strategies specifically tailored to benefit kittens, particularly valuable.
Speakers are experienced and well-respected members of the animal welfare community, and are eager to share their knowledge and passion for kittens with the online audience. Speakers currently include:

Alejandra Lablé, DVM, MSc, PhD ©, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
Becca Boronat, DVM, Veterinarian, National Shelter Medicine, Best Friends Animal Society
Caroline Grace, Founder/Director, Baby Kitten Rescue
Ilaria Venturin, Feline Behaviorist and Kitten Care Coach, Lary e il mondo dei Gattini – Adas Onlus
Kristi Brooks, Director of Operations, Cat Adoption Team

…and many more! More information on all the great sessions and speakers in store can be found on the conference website here.
The event will also include engaging rounds of cat trivia, with the opportunity to win prizes, including a cage donated by CDE Animal Cages, to facilitate fostering multiple litters of kittens in one safe and convenient location. For more information about CDE Animal Cades and their high-quality enclosures, visit cdecages.com.
Registration is $75 and includes access to the live event and recordings after the live event has passed. available here. Anyone interested in attending this incredible online event should register here.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/events/2024-online-kitten-conference/

Webinar - 6/6/24 - When Feelings Get in the Way - FDSA (fee applies)
2024-06-06 15:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Presenter: Amy Cook, PhD
You’ve probably heard me say “when you teach your dog what to do, you teach her how to feel,” but have you thought about all the ways that may be impacting your training? Emotions and behaviors go hand in hand, and you do not get the luxury of prioritizing one over the other. It’s in your best interest to align your emotional goals with your behavioral ones!
Experiences like frustration, confusion, agitation, desperation, insecurity, uncertainty, suspicion and more (and the underlying emotions informing those) all get in the way of your dog’s learning and performance, and also affect the bigger picture of what it’s like to work with you and learn things in general! One thing we really want in our dogs is a love of working with us, full attention, and for them to know they’re safe so they can give their all!
In this presentation I’ll go over the ways we can contribute to unwanted states in our dogs, what that might look like, and how you can minimize negative states and emphasize positive, supportive ones! Let’s keep our dogs in the happy bucket!
** This Webinar was previously included in the Dogs with Big Feelings One Day Conference (July 2022). Please check your Library to prevent a duplicate purchase. **
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com/index.php/self-study/webinars

Webinar - 6/6/24 - California Rabies Awareness Challenge - CalAnimals
2024-06-06 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Rabies control activities are an important function of California shelters and animal control agencies. Why are rabies vaccines important? What does rabies look like in domestic animals and how risky is this to humans? Rabies vaccine is the ONLY vaccine among the various biologics administered to companion animals in California that is regulated under State law, and it is the responsibility of every licensed veterinarian to practice within the context of law when managing patients with respect to rabies and rabies vaccination. This scenario-based presentation has been developed to challenge participants on California regulatory/statutory issues pertaining to rabies.
The audience will be tasked to provide the correct (legal) responses to a variety of situations encountered in practice relating to rabies: eg, what does “currently vaccinated” (in law) actually mean? What are the consequences for the patient, and the owner, following rabies exposure if the patient is “currently vaccinated” vs NOT “currently vaccinated?” Who has rabies vaccination exemption authority? How do we vaccinate hybrid species? What is Prospective Serological Monitoring? When is it recommended that we vaccinate our staff?
Speaker: Richard Ford, DVM, MS, DACVIM, DACVPM
Moderated by: Amy Auch, DVM, CCFP
A huge thanks to Boehringer-Ingelheim for sponsoring this webinar!
WEBSITE LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_9aHomdAzStGuLy-sD9KM9w#/

Webinar – 6/05/24 – Mitigating Risk in Animal Shelters and Rescues – The AAWA
2024-06-05 15:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
NEW DATE: Wednesday, June 5, 3-4 pm ET
From dog bites to animal transportation and medical care to worker’s comp, animal shelters and rescues have unique liability risks, related to both animals and people.
David Denniston, Director of Risk Management for McNeil & Co, Inc., has experience working with animal welfare organizations to mitigate their risk. David will explain how your organization can lessen the risk of costly and stressful liability and legal problems. He will provide sample language and policies you can use right away. This session will also explore practical strategies for inspiring a deep and lasting commitment to safety and mission-protection in your nonprofit.
WEBSITE LINK: https://learning.theaawa.org/p/3-27-24

Online Course – 6/5/24 – Return to Home Certification Workshop – Community Cats Podcast (small fee applies)
2024-06-05 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Community Cats Podcast, in partnership with Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA) is set to empower animal shelters and enthusiasts to change the narrative surrounding stray cats. This workshop aims to revolutionize the way we approach and care for stray felines and provide practical, real-world solutions to address the issue of lost cats and reconnect them with their families.
Date & Time: The workshop will begin on June 5, 2024 at 1:00 PM Eastern Time and will run for 1.5 hours. 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! #ThanksToMaddie, we are pleased to offer complimentary access to the March session. Anyone interested in receiving a complimentary registration should fill out the form here.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/events/return-to-home-certification-workshop-june-2024/
