Shelter Learniverse and Industry-Wide Calendar

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  • Webinar – 10/21/25 – Healing Together: Understanding and Supporting Pets Impacted by Domestic Violence – Besty BnB

    Webinar – 10/21/25 – Healing Together: Understanding and Supporting Pets Impacted by Domestic Violence – Besty BnB

    When survivors of domestic violence flee abuse, their pets often carry emotional scars too. Animals experience trauma in different ways, and their behaviors, whether fearful, withdrawn, or reactive, are often misunderstood. These responses can be the result of directly experiencing abuse, witnessing violence, or being separated from the humans they love.

    In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, this webinar will explore how domestic pets cope with trauma and how we, as caregivers and advocates, can support their healing. This webinar will feature a special guest, Andria Gibbon, Founder & President of Protecting Paws for Life – an organization dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence and their beloved pets. Learn how trauma-informed care can be extended to the entire family, pets included.

    In this session, you will learn:

    • How trauma impacts the behavior and well-being of domestic pets
    • The signs of trauma in animals and how to recognize them
    • Practical strategies to support pets who have experienced or witnessed abuse
    • How organizations like Protecting Paws for Life are partnering with BestyBnB to create pathways for survivors and their pets to heal together
    • Ways your agency or community can become more pet-inclusive in supporting survivors of domestic violence

    Who should attend?

    • Domestic violence program managers and staff
    • Animal welfare program managers and staff
    • Social service providers working with pet owners
    • Mental health program managers and staff
    • Victim advocates

    WEBSITE LINK:  https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/5orT05sDRhmMTM5GdgItAQ#/registration

  • Webinar – 10/9/25 – Organizational Culture – HASS

    Webinar – 10/9/25 – Organizational Culture – HASS

    Explore organizational culture in animal welfare—where compassion meets collaboration to drive lifesaving impact. You will learn how cultivating a strong, inclusive culture can fuel innovation, sustain momentum, and transform outcomes for animals in your community.

    WEBSITE LINK:  https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_YpDVpC_qQ_uGO3Wm3IaG2g#/registration

  • Webinar – 10/20/25 – Spectrum of Care: Appropriate Management of Toxicology Cases on a Budget – ASPCAPro

    Webinar – 10/20/25 – Spectrum of Care: Appropriate Management of Toxicology Cases on a Budget – ASPCAPro

    The spectrum of care in the management of toxicities refers to the range of strategies used to recognize, assess, prevent and treat adverse effects. The primary goal is to ensure patient safety while maintaining treatment efficacy. This session will demonstrate the value of establishing key goals for veterinary care, while emphasizing the critical role of communication, evidence-based medicine and client-centered decision-making in the treatment of toxicities.

    Key Takeaways:

    – Learn spectrum of care terminology

    – Understand why spectrum of care may be needed

    – Recognize the importance of the veterinary team regarding spectrum of care

    This webinar is RACE-approved and is eligible for 1 hour of free CE for veterinarians and veterinary technicians.

    WEBSITE LINK: https://aspca.zoom.us/webinar/register/4217576001150/WN_rRAve-crSYSOu5QAzusM_w#/registration

  • Webinar – 10/15/25 – Medical Care Essentials for Trap-Neuter-Release and Community Cat Programs – Best Friends

    Webinar – 10/15/25 – Medical Care Essentials for Trap-Neuter-Release and Community Cat Programs – Best Friends

    Learn how to best harness the lifesaving power of community cat programs, where we’ll dive into the medical strategies that keep cats healthy and thriving. From anesthesia to aftercare, this webinar is packed with practical tips for shelter staff and vets committed to saving the lives of cats in our shelters and in our communities.

    Presented by: Dr. Erin Katribe, DVM, DABVP (Shelter Medicine Practice) National Shelter Medicine; Best Friends Animal Society

    WEBSITE LINK: https://bestfriends-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_iRsWQsmFS4aikwy3tfGwsg#/registration

  • Webinar – 11/12/25 – Shelter Traffic Jam: Quick Wins to Clear the Way and Keep Animals Moving – UC Davis KSMP

    Webinar – 11/12/25 – Shelter Traffic Jam: Quick Wins to Clear the Way and Keep Animals Moving – UC Davis KSMP

    Re-Scheduled to 11/12 due to Zoom outage

    Different shelters, same traffic jam: Too many animals, not enough exits, and teams fighting burnout in the gridlock. Overcrowding compromises care. Stress shoots up and decision-making stalls. But you’re not powerless—whether you’re frontline staff, a volunteer, in a leadership role, or a veterinary professional, you can drive real change. This session will equip you with immediate steps to reduce harm and break up traffic jams today.

    With Drs. Kate Hurley and Cindi Delany, you’ll explore balancing intakes and outcomes for better welfare, using daily monitoring and pathway planning to move animals faster, and making tough euthanasia decisions when no safe live outcomes exist.

    After this session, you’ll be able to:

    • Understand Capacity for Care basics, your roadmap to getting every animal the right outcome at the right time.
    • Spot warning signs that put animals and staff at risk.
    • Use proven harm-reduction strategies to protect health and well-being.
    • Make confident, humane decisions to guide animal outcomes.
    • Implement quick wins to improve flow, outcomes, and support your team’s morale and mission.

    Whether you’re trying to survive another overwhelming week or map your way to more sustainable practices under pressure, this is for you. Because when you’re operating beyond capacity, every decision matters.

    Ready to take back control? Register now.

    Presenters: Dr. Cindi Delany, DVM, KPA-CTP, FFCP and Dr. Kate Hurley, DVM, MPVM, DABVP

    This webinar has been 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, accessible through the UC Davis Koret Shelter Medicine Program Shelter Learniverse, #ThanksToMaddie!

    WEBSITE LINK: https://www.shelterlearniverse.com/events

  • Online Event – 10/25/25 – Neighborhood Cats TNR Certification Workshop – Community Cats Podcast (small fee applies)

    Online Event – 10/25/25 – Neighborhood Cats TNR Certification Workshop – Community Cats Podcast (small fee applies)

    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.

    This session is led by Susan Richmond, Executive Director, and Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, and lasts 2.5 hours, followed by an optional 15-minute Q&A session. The cost of registration is just $10.00.

    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-oct-2025/

  • Webinar – 10/29/25 – Understanding Tribal Sovereignty and Jurisdiction for Animal Welfare Professionals – Maddie’s Fund

    Webinar – 10/29/25 – Understanding Tribal Sovereignty and Jurisdiction for Animal Welfare Professionals – Maddie’s Fund

    Effective and respectful partnerships with Tribal Nations require more than good intentions, they demand a foundational understanding of history, law, and culture. Join us for a two-hour webinar designed for animal welfare professionals working alongside and in partnership with Tribal communities. There will be plenty of time for your questions after the presentation.

    Through the guidance of Karen Diver—former White House Special Assistant to President Obama for Native American Affairs and a national leader in tribal governance—participants will gain critical insights into the historical and legal framework that shapes tribal sovereignty.

    Attendees will explore the government-to-government relationship between Tribal Nations and Federal and State governments, beginning with treaty-making and continuing through key legislation and court decisions that impact jurisdiction and self-determination. The webinar emphasizes that Tribal Nations are not homogenous; each tribe has its own government structure, laws, and cultural perspectives. Understanding these distinctions is essential for building trust and fostering long-term, respectful collaboration.

    This webcast will include:

    • the historical and legal foundations of tribal sovereignty
    • treaties and the ongoing federal trust responsibility
    • differences in tribal, state, and federal jurisdiction
    • the diversity of Tribal Nations and the importance of cultural competence
    • navigating partnerships in the context of animal welfare, including regulatory and legal considerations.
    • case studies highlighting successful collaboration and common pitfalls

    Learning Objectives:
    By the end of this course, participants will be better prepared to work with Tribal Nations as true partners, recognizing and respecting their sovereignty, honoring their unique histories, and aligning animal welfare efforts with community values and governance structures.

    This webinar has been approved for 2 hours of continuing education credit in jurisdictions that recognize RACE approval. Earn up to 2 Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) continuing education credits by The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement (AAWA) and National Animal Care and Control Association (NACA).

    This webcast will be recorded. Registrants will get a link to the recording a few days after the event.

    WEBSITE LINK: https://maddies.fund/TribalSovereigntyRegistration

  • Webinar – 10/21/25 – Doors Wide Open: Connecting the Dots: Integrated Operations for Greater Access to Care – Open Door Veterinary Collective

    Webinar – 10/21/25 – Doors Wide Open: Connecting the Dots: Integrated Operations for Greater Access to Care – Open Door Veterinary Collective

    Join Open Door Veterinary Collective for a second series of lively conversations as we explore innovative and practical solutions that organizations are using to address barriers to accessing pet care and resources in their communities.

    In this 30-minute Lunch & Learn webcast—part of our 4-part series—we spotlight Doug Plant and his transformative work as COO of Michigan Humane. Discover how Doug is weaving together Clinic and Shelter Operations, Facilities, Field Services, Volunteer Services, and Community Solutions into a cohesive strategy to increase access to care. Learn how this integrated approach is breaking silos, streamlining services, and ultimately improving outcomes for pets and the people who love them. Grab your lunch and get inspired by a leader who’s bringing it all together to build a more humane, connected system.

    Get inspired by a leader who is bringing it all together to build a more humane, connected system, one that puts both human and animal well-being at the center.

    Register for the series: https://maddies.fund/DoorsWideOpenWebcastSeriesRegister

    Facilitator: Geraldine D’Silva, Maddie’s National Director of Programs & Partnerships

    Who should attend? Everyone is welcome! This series is perfect for those interested or involved in access to veterinary care. Each session will be recorded and viewable on-demand within a few days after the event.

    Earn continuing education credit from The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement towards CAWA CEs as well as from the National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA).

    Come make friends and learn to make access to care more achievable for all involved!

    Questions on the topic? Ask them to the guest speakers on the Forum discussion thread: https://forum.maddiesfund.org/discussion/open-door-webcast-integrated-operations-for-greater-access-to-care

    Guest Speaker: Doug Plant, COO, Michigan Humane

    WEBSITE LINK: https://maddies.fund/DoorsWideOpenWebcastSeriesRegister

  • Online Event – 11/13/25 – CAWA Curious Chat – The AAWA

    Online Event – 11/13/25 – CAWA Curious Chat – The AAWA

    Curious about the Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) Exam?

    Interested in expanding your knowledge and boosting your skills? Looking to power up your future career opportunities? Then the CAWA credential may be for you!
    CAWA is the only leadership credential in animal welfare. You earn your CAWA by studying for and taking a rigorous exam.

    Join a conversation with the CAWA program director and several CAWAs. Ask us anything about the program — from eligibility to studying tips to why the CAWA credential is a boon to your leadership ambitions. Learn about the new exam and how the program works.

    Have questions that can’t wait? Visit the CAWA webpages or email Valerie Sheppard at learning@theaawa.org.

    This conversation will take place 2-3 pm ET and will be recorded.

    Panelists:

    • Jennifer Bennett, DVM, CAWA, Director of Shelter Medicine Access to Care, UC Davis Koret Shelter Medicine Program
    • Kim Brown, CAWA, COO, Animal Protective Association of Missouri
    • Katie Ingram, CAWA, Animal Services Manager, County of Placer Animal Services
    • Katie Parker, CAWA, Chief Operating Officer, Humane Colorado

    WEBSITE LINK: https://learning.theaawa.org/p/cawa-curious-1125

  • Webinar – 10/21/25 – Justice in Action: Moving Beyond DEI in Animal Welfare – The AAWA

    Webinar – 10/21/25 – Justice in Action: Moving Beyond DEI in Animal Welfare – The AAWA

    The animal welfare profession has made meaningful strides toward diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). However, many are realizing that DEI alone is not enough to address the deeper systemic barriers that shape who has access to animal care, animal welfare services, and leadership opportunities in the profession.

    This session will explore what it means to shift from DEI in theory to justice in action. Participants will learn how to envision strategies that center accountability, community partnerships, and systemic change. We will also discuss common pitfalls that keep organizations stuck and provide actionable steps towards justice. Whether you lead a shelter, work with diverse teams, or engage in community-based animal care, this session will equip you with ideas and tools to take the next step toward making meaningful, long-term change.

    Objectives:

    Examine traditional ways of defining DEI in animal welfare
    Define justice in action and how it strengthens efforts to foster inclusion and belonging
    Identify strategies to leverage DEI and justice in action at your organization

    Presented by:

    Maria Morukian, President, MSM Global Consulting
    Jasmin Robinson, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives, The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement

    This session, both live and the recording, has been approved for:

    1 Certified Animal Welfare Administrator continuing education credit
    1 NACA CE

    WEBSITE LINK: https://learning.theaawa.org/p/10-21-25