Shelter Learniverse

Online Event – 4/20/24 – Online Behavior Day – Community Cats Podcast (fee applies)
2024-04-20 07:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Community Cats Podcast will host their ever-popular Online Behavior Day on April 20, 2024.
More than 400 attendees from all walks of life are expected to log on and learn all they can to better understand and care for the cats in their lives. From animal shelter professionals to caregivers and cat owners, this is the perfect event for anyone who has wondered why cats do the things they do.
Online Behavior Day will feature four of the animal welfare industry’s most-trusted authorities on feline behavior. Workshops will focus on an array of subjects, from managing multi-cat households to creating a fear free shelter environment. Sessions will include a live Q&A to address attendees burning questions and concerns.
The impressive speaker lineup includes:

Pam Johnson-Bennett, certified cat behavior consultant and best-selling author of 8 books
Tabitha Kucera, Elite Fear Free and Low Stress HandlingⓇ-certified Registered Veterinary Technician, certified cat behavior consultant, and one of only 30 Veterinary Technician Specialists in behavior
Rachel Geller, Ed. D, Founder and President of All Cats All the Time, Inc., certified cat behavior and retention specialist, and Fear Free Shelter Specialist
Arden Moore, America’s Pet Health and Safety Coach and host of “Oh Behave” on Pet Life Radio

Sessions will run from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM ET. Registration is $25 (early bird registration is $20 and ends March 20, 2024) and includes access to the live event and recordings after the event has passed. People who would like to attend this virtual event should complete the registration form here. More information about Online Behavior Day, its sessions and sponsors, can be found on the conference page here.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/events/2024-online-behavior-day/

The Roundtable: Make a PACT with Your Community
2024-04-23 16:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Compassion, transparency, leadership.
These are the drivers of People and Animals in Community Together (PACT), a new movement in sheltering that recognizes the power of working together as outlined in nine shared beliefs. Hundreds of organizations and their communities are already on board or are in the process of making a PACT.
Join your host Michael Robbins for a candid conversation with longtime shelter leaders Sharon Harvey, Joe Elmore, and Dr. Kendall Houlihan about why they embrace PACT — and why you should, too. This discussion will be tailored to executive leadership, but all are welcome to learn more about the nine tenets of PACT.
Panelists:

Joe Elmore, President & CEO, Charleston Animal Society
Sharon Harvey, President & CEO, Cleveland Animal Protective League
Dr. Kendall Houlihan, Associate Director in the Animal Welfare Division, AVMA

Moderator:

Michael Robbins, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Atlanta Humane Society

Webinar - 4/24/24 - APCC: Springtime Hazards - ASPCAPro
2024-04-24 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Springtime comes with its own lineup of potential hazards to our pets. This course will cover several springtime hazards for veterinarians and their teams to keep a watch out for, including plants, fertilizers, insecticides, composting dangers, and more.
Takeaways

A dig into springtime related toxins
Discussion of various springtime hazards
The effects on canines and felines exposed to each toxin
Treatment and prognosis breakdowns

Suited For
This session is suited for veterinarians and veterinary technicians, but all are welcome.
Credits
The live webinar and post-webinar online course are RACE-approved and are eligible for one hour of free CE for veterinarians and veterinary technicians.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.aspcapro.org/training/webinar/apcc-springtime-hazards

4/25/24 - Why Animals Need Trainers Who Adhere to the Least Intrusive Principle: Improving Animal Welfare and Honing Trainers’ Skills - Dog iBox (fee applies)
2024-04-24 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Recent interest in basic and applied research on negative reinforcement creates an opportunity to confirm the understanding of why animals need trainers who support the least intrusive principle in selecting behavior-change procedures. In this presentation, we will
1) examine the rationale for a hierarchy of behavior-change procedures according to the least intrusive principle,
2) consider the principle’s impact on animal welfare and trainers’ skills,
3) explore the research comparing positive and negative reinforcement for addressing escape-maintained behavior,
4) review alternative solutions to negative reinforcement, and
5) acknowledge recent concerns about the adoption of a procedural ethical guideline as it applies to the animal training profession.
These concerns offer the animal training community the opportunity to disagree well when disagreement exists.
Presenter: Dr. Susan G. Friedman
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.dog-ibox.com/en/why-animals-need-trainers-who-adhere-to-the-least-intrusive-principle-improving-animal-welfare-and-honing-trainers-skills.html

Webinar - 4/24/24 - The Healthy Animal-Healthy Community Initiative - The AAWA
2024-04-24 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Over the last decade, animal welfare organizations in the US have shifted their focus towards addressing the root causes of animal problems, realizing the importance of addressing the human aspect of the issue. Program models have moved away from shelter-based services to more preventive, community-based solutions. The Animal Rescue League of Boston recognized this shift and updated its mission and vision to include bringing veterinary and wellness services directly to those who need it most, ensuring that animals are safe and healthy in communities rather than shelters.
This case study explores the journey of the Animal Rescue League of Boston’s Wellness Waggin’ program, from its conception to implementation, including steps like determining a target area, building community relationships, securing funding, and launching a pilot program. The Wellness Waggin’ is now a successful mobile veterinary unit that has completed over 14,000 wellness care appointments since 2018.
Attendees will leave the webinar with:

A basic framework for implementing a new community-based program, including an alternative grass-roots approach to engaging with community that is achievable for organizations of all sizes.
Ideas for learning what each community needs
Ways to determine a target community for a new community-based program or for creating new community partnerships

WEBSITE LINK: https://learning.theaawa.org/p/4-24-24

Webinar - 4/24/24 - Bottle Feeding & Neonate Nutrition - The National Kitten Coalition
2024-04-24 16:00 - 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Bottle-baby kittens are arriving in many parts of our country – and in some places, the kitten season never stops! Kittens under four weeks of age, or ‘bottle-baby kittens’ need trained fosters to save their lives.
This webinar will teach you everything you need to know, from how much and how often to feed a kitten to how to mix the formula. Join us to learn the basics or get a refresher to bottle feed and help a neonatal kitten grow safely.
WEBSITE LINK: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/2617109689831/WN_Y4qzybIZRZSUWnVkNzgeOA

Online Event - 4/24/24 - Understanding Title Protection for Veterinary Technicians - The Bridge Club
2024-04-24 17:00 - 21:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Whether you are a veterinary technician or veterinarian, title protection is extremely confusing as it varies state by state.
In this exclusive conversation, we are joined by Heather Prendergast, RVT, CVPM, SPHR, current President of the Board for Viticus Group; Beckie Mosser, RVT and President-elect for NAVTA and Sam Geiling, RVT, member of NAVTA’s Government Relations Committee to discuss the state of title protection for veterinary technicians. We will dive into the current state of affairs by state. We will provide updated links to content. Join us and have your questions answered!
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.thebridgeclub.com/events/understanding-title-protection-for-veterinary-technicians

Webinar - 4/25/24 - Cyber Security: A Leadership Perspective - CalAnimals
2024-04-25 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Cyber security pros from Syntech Group have generously agreed to share this super important information with our CalAnimals members. They will discuss current topics and stories about cyber security including examples and tactics that leaders can employ to enhance awareness and implement practices for organizational security. Lastly they will share a few resources for ongoing training and awareness. You won’t want to miss this!
Presenters:Katherine Wetherbee & James Stover – Syntech Group
WEBSITE LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_BGSyV1QmRXiXzSvHQCb64w#/registration

Webinar - 4/25/24 - Invisible Advocates: How the Social Justice Movement Influences Animal Advocacy - Life of Riley
2024-04-25 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Though efforts have been made within the animal advocacy movement to recognize intersections with human rights campaigns, the latter are frequently classified as belonging to “other movements” that are separate and apart from animal advocacy. Using real-life examples, presenters will explore ways in which individuals, communities, and groups have made transformative contributions (often unknowingly) to the success of animal advocacy through the framework of social justice. This webinar is intended to bring awareness and appreciation to the many forms of hidden contributions that contribute to victories in animal advocacy.

Speakers:
From Companions and Animals for Reform & Equity (CARE):

Akisha Townsend Eaton, Chief of Policy, Environmental Justice Division
Aline Silva, Senior Director of Environmental Justice & Policy and Housing Specialist

WEBSITE LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAudeChrTMiGtwXmyobJxAQ95RrCmW5oxoZ#/

Hybrid Conference - 5/1/24 to 5/3/24 - IAABC Foundation Animal Behavior Conference - IAABC (fee applies)
2024-05-01 | Virtual
The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants Foundations’ Animal Behavior Conference will be held this year in Asheville, North Carolina and via livestream May 1st-3rd. The IAABC Foundation, sister organization to the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (the IAABC), is hosting its annual conference at the DoubleTree by Hilton Asheville – Biltmore and you’re invited!
Explore, discover and learn from experts in dog, cat behavior, horse behavior, and more. You’ll have the opportunity to attend over 30 educational sessions, covering topics such as:

Working with the human-animal, understanding social cognition and behavior of people and the importance of building community
Interdisciplinary and innovative approaches to emotional regulation, understanding disorders
Animal ethics, social constructions and defining “good training”
And much more!

In addition to the educational sessions, the IAABC Foundation is hosting 3 unique off-site events to kick off the conference. Choose to visit the first-of-its-kind facility, ASPCA Behavioral Rehabilitation Center (BRC), enter the fascinating world of parrot behavior at Phoenix Landing or learn from a panel of renowned equine educators. Last year’s attendees benefited from these amazing learning and networking opportunities. Now you can, too!
A scholarship is available to marginalized communities. IAABC members also receive a discount, so if you’re not already a member, now is the perfect time to join!
Take advantage of this valuable opportunity to learn from top professionals and network with peers who share your interests. Reserve your spot at the IAABC Foundation Conference in Asheville now. We hope to see you there!
Contact the IAABC Foundation at questions@iaabcfoundation.org if you have any questions.
WEBSITE LINK: https://iaabcfoundation.org/animal-behavior-conference/

Webinar - 5/1/24 - Leaving Conflict Behind: Skills to Reduce Intra-Household Aggression - PPG (fee applies)
2024-05-01 11:30 - 12:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
This webinar will discuss when and why dogs living together in a home might fight. Once management is in place, then what? How can we teach dogs to move away from conflict rather than into it? We will look beyond the basics to what skills and games can help dogs learn to move away.
Learning Objectives:

Learn skills and games to help dogs learn to move away from conflict.

Presenter: Christina Young
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.petprofessionalguild.com/webinars-events/webinars/leaving-conflict-behind-skills-to-reduce-intra-household-aggression/

Webinar - 5/1/24 - Busting DEI Blowback & Burnout - The AAWA
2024-05-01 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Is your DEI work burning you out?
Anyone involved in DEI efforts may be feeling exhausted by what seem like insurmountable odds, especially after repeated attempts to make progress are met with resistance, inaction, and even hostility. How can you move your efforts forward in these moments without causing damage to yourself and others?
Come explore strategies for building an endurance mindset to DEI and try out tools to develop the stamina to continue progressing—even when you feel like you’ve hit the wall.
Session Objectives:

Identify common causes for hitting the DEI Wall
Explore tools to avoid burnout and build individual physical, mental, and emotional stamina
Determine organizational strategies and practices to maintain steady and sustainable progress toward DEI goals in the face of fatigue or blowback

Presenter: Jasmin M. Robinson, Director of DEI Initiatives, The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement
WEBSITE LINK: https://learning.theaawa.org/p/5-01-24

Webinar - 5/2/24 - Fear vs. Anxiety: Does the distinction matter? - Dog iBox (fee applies)
2024-05-02 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
It is common for pet parents, trainers, and veterinarians to lump fear and anxiety together as similar emotions. While that’s not inherently wrong, lumping them together without understanding what sets them apart is likely an oversimplification of these complex emotional states. This webinar will tease out some of the subtle nuances of these emotions and, even more importantly, expand on how we can use that information to guide our management and behavior modification (and medication!) interventions to improve their specificity and effectiveness.
Presenter: Dr. Christopher Pachel
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.dog-ibox.com/en/fear-vs-anxiety-same-or-different-and-does-it-matter.html

Online Event – 5/2/24 – Live from the Ranch: Choice and Control in Animal Learning with Susan G. Friedman – Karen Pryor Academy
2024-05-02 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
On the next episode of Live from The Ranch, Ken Ramirez will be joined by Susan G. Friedman, Ph.D. They will discuss what it means to incorporate choice and control in training plans, the impact of negative reinforcement, and how to think beyond labels by measuring observable behavior.
Tune in on YouTube on May 2, at 1 pm PT, for this free virtual event with live audience Q&A.
WEBSITE LINK: https://theranch.clickertraining.com/live/#next

Online Event - 5/2/24 - Revolutionizing Veterinary Education - The Bridge Club
2024-05-02 17:00 - 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
As more and more technology enters the workforce – the way we train future generations of of DVMs and Technicians is changing. What does it look like and can today’s work force adjust? Join us for an intriguing look to the future, that is happening now!
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.thebridgeclub.com/events/revolutionizing-veterinary-education

Online Event – 5/4/24 – Neighborhood Cats TNR Certification Workshop – Community Cats Podcast (small fee applies)
2024-05-04 11:00 - 13:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Are you ready to be part of the solution for feral and stray cats in your neighborhood? Our expert instructors will teach you best practices for Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) and colony management. Learn what TNR is and why it works. We’ll cover getting along with neighbors, preparations for trapping, trapping itself (including entire colonies at once), feeding, providing winter shelter, and more. Take advantage of the interactive format, extensive handouts, and video footage of actual projects. Attendees will receive a certificate of attendance and gain access to an ongoing Facebook group for networking with other TNR activists. Instructed by Susan Richmond, executive director, and Bryan Kortis, national programs director.
Session duration is 2.5 hours, followed by an optional 15-minute Q&A session.
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-may-2024/

Webinar - 5/7/24 - Tribal Law and Animal Law - NACA/Justice Clearinghouse
2024-05-07 12:00 - 13:15 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Tribal nations came before and now co-exist with the United States. Each tribal nation’s relationship with the United States federal government and state governments is unique and layered with complex forms of oppression and injustice. These relationships become more complicated with advocacy for companion animals, domestic animals, and wildlife who live on federally recognized reservations, when many tribal nations are still fighting for basic human rights, civil rights, and federal recognition.
Given the expansiveness of tribal law and the uniqueness of each tribal nation, this webinar will highlight some common themes different tribal cultures share that are specific to animals; the struggles that occur in advocating for tribal nations’ needs and the needs of animals who live on reservations; and the challenges that exist with the imposition of mainstream culture onto tribal cultures.
This webinar will then propose collaborative methods with tribal nations that create solutions, which uplift all beings within tribal nations’ lands and legal jurisdictions.
Presenter

As a Criminal Justice Program Fellow, Jessica Chapman works with the ALDF to address crimes against animals, partnering with stakeholders across the criminal justice system to resolve both the impetus and impact of animal cruelty.
Jessica earned a B.A. from the University of California, Berkeley where she double majored in Slavic Languages and Literature and Native American Studies (honors). She earned a J.D. (cum laude) from Michigan State University College of Law, where Jessica received the 2020 Wanda Nash Award from the Animal Law Section of the Michigan State Bar. Jessica earned an Animal law L.L.M. (magna cum laude) from Lewis & Clark Law School. While at Lewis & Clark, she was awarded the inaugural 2021 Outstanding Animal Law L.L.M. Graduate Award and earned placement in the Cornelius Honor Society.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.justiceclearinghouse.com/webinar/tribal-law-and-animal-law/

Online Seminar - 5/7/24 and 5/9/24 - Keeping Families Together: How to Support Domestic Violence Survivors and Their Pets - CVMA (fee applies)
2024-05-07 12:30 - 13:45 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
In this session, we will discuss the link between domestic violence and pets and how the veterinary community can increase access to veterinary care for survivors and pets by supporting pet housing programs at domestic violence shelters. Studies show that 65% of domestic violence survivors have a pet, but nearly half delay or avoid leaving abusers out of concern for their pets.
Veterinary professionals are likely to interact with survivors and their pets and have the opportunity to identify signs of potential abuse, respond to situations of crisis, and connect survivors to resources. Helping survivors and their pets stay together requires collaboration between human services, animal services, and veterinary services. Establishing lines of communication, providing resources, and sharing expertise between veterinary providers and human services removes significant barriers.
After this session, veterinary professionals will feel confident on how to navigate next steps in building relationships in their communities and supporting local pet-housing programs at domestic violence shelters.
Date and Time

Tuesday, May 7, 2024 | 12:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Registration closes May 3, 2024

Thursday, May 9, 2024 | 5:30 p.m. – 6:45 p.m.

Registration closes May 7, 2024

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.
Webinar is live and interactive. Webinar may be recorded by the CVMA for internal use and training purposes. All other recordings are prohibited.

WEBSITE LINK: https://cvma.net/continuing-education/upcoming-ce/cvma-online-seminar-domestic-violence-webinar/cvma-online-seminar-domestic-violence-webinar-information/

Webinar - 5/7/24 - Press Pause on the Parvo Panic: Preventing a Case from Being an Outbreak - VETGirl
2024-05-07 17:00 - 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Did your parvovirus case turn into a parvovirus outbreak?
In this complimentary, 1-hour VETgirl–Elanco webinar, Dr. Brian DiGangi, MS, DABVP (Canine & Feline Practice, Shelter Medicine Practice) will explore current recommendations and new tools for managing canine parvovirus in shelter environments. Tune in and learn how to plan for safe and successful case management by refining preventive care and biosecurity practices.
Thanks to sponsorship from Elanco, the recording of this webinar will be available to view free and On-Demand until August 7, 2024.
WEBSITE LINK: https://vetgirlontherun.com/webinars/may-7-2024-press-pause-on-the-parvo-panic-preventing-a-case-from-being-an-outbreak/

Online Course – Starts 5/8/24 – Animal Behavior Consulting: Principles & Practice – IAABC (fee applies)
2024-05-08 | Virtual
The IAABC Animal Behavior Consulting Principles & Practice Course is a unique twelve-week multi-module course providing a comprehensive overview of the many facets of animal behavior consulting for all species. The course is appropriate for experienced behavior consultants and practitioners as well as those newer to the field with a strong interest in animal behavior. The course features weekly online meetings with a Course Mentor discussing each learning module.
Course Begins: May 8, 2024
Duration: 12 weeks
Instructor: Erin Jones, PhD, CPDT-KA, IAABC-ADT, CDBC
Course Highlights

27 renowned experts in the field
a comprehensive overview of Animal Behavior Consulting for all species
the only course to cover all facets of Animal Behavior Consulting
weekly online Mentor Meetings for ongoing support and further learning

Presenters include:
Dr. Mary Burch; Dr. Dan Estep; Dr. Susan Friedman; Dr. Lore Haug; Dr. Suzanne Hetts; Dr. Karen Overall; Dr. Chris Pachel; Chirag Patel; Ken Ramirez; Kathy Sdao; Mychelle Blake; Veronica Boutelle; Kristin Buller, LSCW; Brian Burton; Steve Dale; Dr. Sheila D’Arpino; Jessica Dolce; Gail Fisher; Sarah Fraser; Dr. Evon Hekkala; Dr. Jessica Hekman; Dr. Elinor Karlsson; Theresa McKeon; Gina Phairas; Randi Rossman; Dr. Rise VanFleet; Miranda Workman
Topics covered include:
Learning Science; Applied Behavior Analysis; Functional Analysis and Intervention Design; Biology; Ethology; Genetics; Marker Training; Case Studies; Desensitization and Counter Conditioning; Program Management; Behavioral Medicine; LIMA Practices; TAGteach; Business Promotion and Social Media Strategies; Interpreting Scientific Studies; the Human Side of the Equation; Sheltering, Fostering and Enrichment; Animal Welfare Science; Compassion Fatigue
** IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT WEEKLY ONLINE MEETINGS **

Meetings are not recorded
Meetings take place on Wednesdays at 8:00 pm Eastern (first meeting May 15th)
Meetings are 1 hour in duration with the exception of Week 7 (June 26th) which is 2 hours in duration
There are 12 meetings for this course

WEBSITE LINK: https://iaabcfoundation.org/courses/animal-behavior-consulting-principles-practice/

5/8/24 - How to be an Expert Witness in Animal Cruelty and Custody Cases - The AAWA
2024-05-08 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Three legal experts will discuss:

the role of the animal expert in court proceedings, including testimony in court as well as advising and educating attorneys
preparation for testimony, including cross-examination
best practices for the forensic witness
war stories and current trends

This session will reduce the fear of the unknown and instill confidence in testifying by explaining what is expected of an expert witness and outline things one should and should not do on the stand. Veterinarians often are especially reluctant to become involved with cruelty cases because of the fear of testifying in what they consider a potential adversarial situation and may feel they must make the entire case or speak in absolutes.
Target audience: veterinarians, animal control officers, anyone who may engage in an animal cruelty or custody investigation and be asked to testify as an expert.
Speakers:

Don Cocek, APA Fellow, Association of Prosecuting Attorneys
Gillian Deegan, Prosecutor, Botetourt County, Virginia
Melinda Merck, DVM, Veterinary Forensics Consulting

WEBSITE LINK: https://bit.ly/49wCJ0o

Webinar - 5/8/24 - Place More Pets Now with These Easy Changes - Best Friends
2024-05-08 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Shelter and rescue workers like you are working tirelessly to save the lives of homeless dogs and cats across the country. Sometimes, we need to go back to the basics, like making it as easy as possible for people to adopt from or foster with you!
Join your peers from shelters and rescues, along with Best Friends staff, in a live Q&A discussion on open adoptions and fostering. This panel will feature Heather Owen, Executive Director & Co-Founder of One Tail at a Time; Lawrence Nicolas, President of Jacksonville Humane Society; Misha Goodman, Animal Care Services Director of Bernalillo County Animal Care and Resource Center; and Dawn Binion-Stewart, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) for Best Friends Animal Society.
This webinar will equip you with tangible advice for breaking down barriers in your adoption and foster processes to include your entire community. Register to join live and submit your questions when you register.
WEBSITE LINK: https://bestfriends-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/7117134723360/WN_lfloMG4HQEuO3yIUlh2fDA#/

Webinar - 5/9/24 - Maddie's Insights: Impact of Classical Counterconditioning (Quiet Kennel Exercise) on Barking in Shelter Dogs - Maddie's Fund
2024-05-09 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
A major welfare concern in animal shelters is excessive barking from kenneled dogs. This contributes to noise pollution, can cause hearing damage, and has a negative impact on all animals within earshot. This study demonstrated that by implementing a simple classical counterconditioning exercise, consisting of instructing all ward passers-through to toss treats to each dog regardless of behavior exhibited, could change the emotional state of dogs from negative to more positive, thus reducing fear and frustration that often leads to excessive barking.
Data analysis showed that implementation of this simple exercise did reduce barking at clinically relevant levels even with a changing shelter population. Additionally, for each percent increase in compliance rate, there was an average decrease of 17.3 dB in the maximum decibel reading. Moreover, an overall positive change in attitude from most dogs towards visitors further showed the positive effects of the study.
Learning Objectives:

Attendees will learn to identify and apply basic learning theory, specifically focusing on Classical (Pavlovian) Conditioning, to dogs in a kennel setting.
Attendees will learn to identify risks and consequences of noise pollution in shelters, and also ways to reduce it to improve welfare of all species in the shelter.

Can’t attend the live event? Register anyway! This webcast will be recorded, and a link will be sent a day after the live event ends.
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 approved for 1 hour of continuing education credit in jurisdictions which recognize the Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE) approval.
Speakers:
@Sara Bennett, DVM, MS, DACVB (Behavior), she/her/hers
Clinical Assistant Professor, Veterinary Behavior Specialist
Department of Clinical Sciences
North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine
@Jamirelis Carrero (Jami)
DVM candidate
North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine
WEBSITE LINK: https://maddies.fund/MIwebcastsRegister

Webinar - 5/9/24 - Management vs Training for Behavior Problems - FDSA (fee applies)
2024-05-09 18:00 - 19:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Training for behavior problems is different from training basic obedience, in that it involves finding and motivating behaviors incompatible to your problem ones, plus changing the underlying emotions that can give rise to those problems in the first place! Let’s talk about those familiar ABCs, but let’s break them down into A-B, and B-C!
Additionally, avoiding rehearsal of behavior issues is an important part of their resolution. Most people are working at stopping the display of undesirable behaviors while they’re happening, but the best way to do this is to have a set of skills that are so well practiced that they are almost a script you can follow! Management is a skill unto itself, and has to be addressed separately from the specific behavior change needed long term.
In this webinar Dr. Cook will go over:

The structure and goals of behavior modification, and whether you need a new A, a new B, or a new C!
How management is crucial to reducing unwanted behaviors
Movement skills: Magnets and hand touch
Stationary skills: Perching and treasure hunt
Home skills: Mat skills, interruptions, and solo play

If you have a dog with a behavior issue, getting a handle on how management and training are different — both in their goals and their execution — is crucial to your success!
Presenter: Amy Cook, PhD
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com/index.php/self-study/webinars

Webinar - 5/14/24 - WILD TO WONDERFUL! Socialized Kitten = Happy Adopter - The National Kitten Coalition
2024-05-14 16:00 - 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Join NKC for a special presentation by guest speaker Mike Phillips, LVT from Urban Cat League. Learn about preparing shy, saucy, or under-socialized kittens for adoption and learn the right follow-through strategies for success.
This comprehensive presentation will guide you through each step of the process to transform rescue kittens from wild to wonderful, and it will share valuable resources that will help ensure the adoption process is successful.
WEBSITE LINK: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/7817109692002/WN_95iM5r9ORgebjEvH9XkveA

Hybrid Conference - 5/15/24 to 5/18/24 - Animal Care Expo 2024 - HSUS (fee applies)
2024-05-15 05:00 - 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Henry B. González Convention Center, San Antonio, TX, United States
Animal Care Expo is the largest international educational conference and trade show for animal welfare professionals and volunteers. We are excited to host Expo 2024 in San Antonio, TX, May 15-18 at the Henry B. González Convention Center, where we expect to welcome over 2,500 attendees. Experts from all facets of animal welfare around the globe will join together to learn about the latest programs, share best practices, gain inspiration, and build lasting connections.
Animal Care Expo 2024 offers:

Nearly 100 workshops across 12 tracks.
An expansive exhibit hall providing the opportunity to engage with animal welfare organizations, vendors and sponsors, learning about the latest products and services in the industry.
Continuing education opportunities in a variety of disciplines.
Networking opportunities where you can share knowledge, gain advice and draw inspiration from the experiences and outlooks of your global colleagues.
A dog park with adoptable dogs and cattery with adoptable cats where attendees can take some time from their day to unwind and cuddle with adorable animals.
Plus, several delicious plant-based meals throughout the conference.
Hands-on community service activities are planned for the exhibit hall as well as out in the community on May 15 (more to come).

Altogether, the networking and educational opportunities at Animal Care Expo yield professional and personal dividends for attendees that last throughout the year and beyond.
WEBSITE LINK: https://humanepro.org/expo

Webinar - 5/18/24 - Targeted TNR & Getting the Most Bang for your Buck - Community Cats Podcast
2024-05-18 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
The more cats you fix, the more impact your TNR program will have, right? Wrong! Spay/neuter volume alone is rarely enough by itself to keep consistently reducing a community’s free-roaming cat population over time.
Another aspect to the program needs to be identifying areas of high need (meaning, lots of cats) and then focusing TNR resources at that location in order to achieve high sterilization rates.
Discover what targeting is, why it’s so important and how you can do it no matter how large or small your program currently is.
WEBSITE LINK: https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/events/targeted-tnr-getting-the-most-bang-for-your-buck-presented-by-neighborhood-cats-may-2024/

Online Course – Starts 5/20/24 – Professional Dog Training: Science & Application – IAABC (fee applies)
2024-05-20 | Virtual
Training is simple, but it’s not easy! There’s canine learning to understand, practical skills and timing to master, and of course, the human part of the equation to consider. Professional Dog Training: Science & Application is a comprehensive 20-week program designed to provide you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to succeed as a dog trainer.
Program Highlights:

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

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

Meetings are a safe space to ask questions, share your experiences, and learn from peers. They are not recorded.
Meetings take place on Mondays at 5:00pm Eastern Standard Time. The first meeting is May 27th.
Meetings are 60 minutes in duration
There are 20 meetings for this program

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

Online Certificate Program – Starts 5/20/24 – Animal Shelter Behavioral Management Certificate Program – Humane Network/UoP (fee applies)
2024-05-20 | Virtual
The shelter environment is a very stressful place that affects the psychological well-being of the animals. Comprehensive behavior programs are essential to keep the animals behaviorally and emotionally healthy during their stay. This eight-week course will give you the knowledge and skills to develop an effective behavior program aimed at improving the welfare of the animals in your care.
05/20/2024 – 7/14/2024 – Now available for registration.
Who will benefit from this program?

Anyone currently affiliated with an animal shelter or rescue organization who wants to learn more about animal behavior as it relates to the shelter/foster environment.
Anyone who wants to improve the emotional wellbeing of the animals in your care.
Anyone seeking a behavior specialist position with an animal shelter or rescue organization.

What You Will Learn

Gain knowledge on how to read dog and cat animal body language and signaling
Learn techniques for safe, humane handling of the animals
Understand how the shelter environment effects the emotional wellbeing of the animals and how to use stress reduction techniques to improve welfare
Gain knowledge on how to keep the animals physically, mentally, and socially stimulated through shelter-wide enrichment programs
Understand the value of effective canine and feline behavior assessments
Obtain the knowledge and skills needed to implement training and behavior modification techniques to improve the behavior and emotional state of the shelter animals
Obtain skills needed to ensure quality customer service for adoption counseling and follow-up.

Continuing Education Units (CEUs): 4.8 CEUs
Course Code: UNSM 050
Course Price: $399
WEBSITE LINK: https://uc.pacific.edu/search/publicCourseSearchDetails.do?method=load&courseId=2133958

Webinar - 5/20/24 - Successful Dog Adoption Placement in Families - PPG (fee applies)
2024-05-20 13:30 - 14:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Join Michelle Stern for this webinar where attendees will learn more about how best to place rescue/shelter/breeder dogs into families with children.
We will discuss some of the challenges for parents raising dogs and kids together. We will focus on decompression, safety, and management for new adopters. During the webinar, we will also discuss what to look for when it comes to matching dogs with families, red flags, and conversation prompts to guide families during the adoption/placement process.
Learning Objectives

Attendees will learn about the challenges of placing dogs with families who have children.
The canine body language to look for during the meet & greet phase.
How shelter and rescue staff can implement a strategy to help families pick a suitable dog making adoptions more successful in families with kids

WEBSITE LINK: https://www.petprofessionalguild.com/webinars-events/webinars/successful-dog-adoption-placement-in-families-with-kids-with-michelle-stern/
