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  • Online Course – Application period closes 8/10/23 – Winter Cohort 2023 – Shelter Playgroup Alliance

    Online Course – Application period closes 8/10/23 – Winter Cohort 2023 – Shelter Playgroup Alliance

    Starting in August 2023, the Shelter Playgroup Alliance no-cost CORE program will be restricted to 75 seats per cohort for individuals who are employed by, or volunteer at, a shelter or rescue and meet the following criteria:

    1. Provide direct care to animals.
    2. Dedicate two hours per week to complete the program in the allotted time frame; staff may need permission and support from supervisors to meet this criterion.
    3. Have access to more than one species.
    4. Regular access to dogs in a shelter or rescue (not only one’s own dog).
    5. Have access to high-speed internet.
    6. Have access to a video camera or a phone with video capabilities.
    7. Able to listen, read, and write in English at a 6th grade level.
    8. Acknowledge the level of difficulty of the program and have a plan for completion within the allotted 16-week time frame.
    9. Demonstrate a learning mindset and are able and willing to receive constructive and kind feedback.
    10. Able to incorporate feedback from the SPA grading team, adjust based on that feedback, and re-submit assignments.
    11. Commitment to the use of positive reinforcement and LIMA-based practices in the shelter environment.

    Applicants for the no-cost CORE program must respond to a survey detailing how they meet the above program criteria. Applications will not be accepted in any other form.

    Shelter and rescue organizations will be limited to 10 people per cohort. Priority will be given to individuals from the same organization who will be taking the program together, as that practice can increase completion. If multiple people from the same organization apply, each much submit their own application. Group enrollment is no longer available for this program.

    At this time, we will no longer offer free nor paid seats for individuals not providing direct care at  a shelter or rescue, including private trainers (even if they provide training classes at a shelter or rescue facility) or day care staff.

    Individuals who do not complete the program in the time allotted will be considered for 15 spaces in a second cohort. Those individuals who wish to be considered to roll-over to a second cohort must submit a short essay with a realistic plan for completion.

    CPDT: 36 CEUs | IAABC: 36 CEUs

    WEBSITE LINK:  https://www.shelterdogplay.org/workshops

  • Webinar – 6/28/23 – Don’t Eat That! – Force free food-avoidance training for “Hoover Dogs” with Simone Mueller – PPG (fee applies)

    Webinar – 6/28/23 – Don’t Eat That! – Force free food-avoidance training for “Hoover Dogs” with Simone Mueller – PPG (fee applies)

    Living with a dog who relentlessly scavenges food can be exhausting. Instead of enjoying relaxed walks with their dogs, dog owners are constantly scanning the environment for discarded food and feel frustrated as they have to fish something disgusting out of their dog’s mouth, yet again.

    The problem is that scavenging is a deep-rooted, natural behaviour, making it much more challenging to train than other canine behaviours.

    However, there is a structured food-avoidance training program that can help manage a dog’s scavenging behaviour in a kind, effective way – achieving long-term results without aversive training techniques.

    In this presentation we are going to talk about:

    • Why dogs love to scavenge
    • Which methods you should avoid using
    • How does force-free food avoidance training work
    • What are the first steps when clients come to you with a “hoover dog”
    • What are scavenging games and how can they help

    About the Presenter

    Simone Mueller, MA is a certified dog trainer and dog behaviour consultant (ATN) from Germany.

    Simone specialises in force-free anti-predation training and is the author of the three books of the Predation Substitute Training series “Hunting Together”, “Rocket Recall” and “Don’t Eat That”.

    Simone is proud to be an Associate Trainer at the Scotland-based Lothlorien Dog Training Club (AT-LDTC) and a member of The Initiative of Force-Free Dog Training, the Pet Professional Guild (PPG) and the Pet Dog Trainers of Europe (PDTE).

    Follow Simone’s work on Facebook and Instagram: #predationsubstitutetraining. You can learn more here.

    WEBSITE LINK:  https://petprofessionalguild.com/event-5271802

  • Webinar – 6/15/23 – It’s Not Just About Training with Shannon Riley – PPG (fee applies)

    Webinar – 6/15/23 – It’s Not Just About Training with Shannon Riley – PPG (fee applies)

    We can’t force a dog to change but if we change our behavior, the dog’s behavior can change! This Webinar is for everyone; pet professional or pet parents. Come and learn about a selection of other tools such as non violent communication, filling in the emotional gap and more . In this webinar Shannon will explore a variety of topics leaving plenty of time for questions and answers.

    Learning Objectives:

    1. Meeting our dog’s needs (Nonviolent Communication – Marshall Rosenberg)
    2. Filling the emotional bank account/ trust account (Gottman Institute-relationship specialist)
    3. 12 step programs (Al Anon, AA, NA, OA, etc.)
    4. Realistic expectations to prevent resentments
    5. The importance of consistency and repetition
    6. Helping clients make realistic goals

    About the Presenter

    Shannon Riley is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Registered Veterinary Technician, Wellness Coach, and Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner. Shannon has been a pet lover all her life and a dog trainer for over 20 years. She has spent her life observing, caring for and training animals of all kinds. She has worked in the Bird Department at Marine World Africa USA, and worked as a handler and trainer for an African Serval Cat at Safari West, a private zoo in Santa Rosa, California. She has participated in behavior studies including observations of bald eagles and addax antelope through the San Francisco Zoo and Safari West.

    Her education includes a Biology Degree, specializing in Zoology from Sonoma State. She is a Registered Veterinary Technician, a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner and a member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. Shannon has also spoken at the Annual APDT (Association of Professional Dog Trainers) conferences and covered topics such as “Compassion Fatigue” and “What Is Your Dog’s Currency?” In 2021, she spoke at Pet Professional Guilds Geek Week.

    WEBSITE LINK:  https://petprofessionalguild.com/event-5271756

  • Webinar – 6/26/23 – Separation Anxiety Webinar Series: The Truths and the Training of Separation Anxiety – PPG (fee applies)

    Webinar – 6/26/23 – Separation Anxiety Webinar Series: The Truths and the Training of Separation Anxiety – PPG (fee applies)

    These can also be signed up for individually. They are listed as three different events. When you register for the live events, you will also receive copies of the three individual event recordings.

    Three Webinars in June – Each Webinar is at Noon ET

    The What and Why of Separation Anxiety – June 12th

    Dogs experiencing stress when home alone are not at all uncommon. Separation anxiety affects approximately 20% of the pet dog population and is one of the most commonly discussed disorders in the fields of applied animal behavior and veterinary behavior. Yet, despite such prevalence, there remains considerable confusion about what separation anxiety is and why it exists.

    Are you interested in understanding separation-related behaviors further? Then, this webinar is for you. This webinar will dive into a discussion defining separation anxiety and its associated behaviors, in addition to reviewing the somewhat elusive aspects of why we are seeing such a high incidence of the issue.

    The Many Separation Anxiety Myths – June 19th

    There is so much contradictory information out there about separation anxiety—much of which includes myths that need busting. Unfortunately, our industry is rife with myths in virtually every aspect of dog training, and separation anxiety is no exception. As a result, dog trainers and dog guardians alike are inundated with conflicting information about how to help dogs suffering from alone-time behavior problems.

    Have you ever wanted to better understand the myths about separation anxiety? This webinar will dissect many myths about causation and treatment for a clearer understanding of this disorder. Many of the myths reviewed will be genuinely eye-opening, allowing for a more efficient and effective means of resolution.

    The Truths and the Training of Separation Anxiety – June 26th

    Implementing a systematic desensitization protocol is the gold standard for working with separation anxiety. It is essential to remember that there are two equally important words in that phrase – both systematic and desensitization are paramount for this process.

    Unfortunately, while the research on this disorder is significant, concrete evidence surrounding effective treatment remains limited. Separation anxiety training is a complex topic that deserves in-depth discussion. In this webinar, we will review the various aspects of what truly makes systematic desensitization the gold standard for resolving separation-related behavior problems.

    WEBSITE LINK:  https://petprofessionalguild.com/event-5205862

  • Webinar – 6/19/23 – Separation Anxiety Webinar Series: The Many Separation Anxiety Myths – PPG (fee applies)

    Webinar – 6/19/23 – Separation Anxiety Webinar Series: The Many Separation Anxiety Myths – PPG (fee applies)

    These can also be signed up for individually. They are listed as three different events. When you register for the live events, you will also receive copies of the three individual event recordings.

    Three Webinars in June – Each Webinar is at Noon ET

    The What and Why of Separation Anxiety – June 12th

    Dogs experiencing stress when home alone are not at all uncommon. Separation anxiety affects approximately 20% of the pet dog population and is one of the most commonly discussed disorders in the fields of applied animal behavior and veterinary behavior. Yet, despite such prevalence, there remains considerable confusion about what separation anxiety is and why it exists.

    Are you interested in understanding separation-related behaviors further? Then, this webinar is for you. This webinar will dive into a discussion defining separation anxiety and its associated behaviors, in addition to reviewing the somewhat elusive aspects of why we are seeing such a high incidence of the issue.

    The Many Separation Anxiety Myths – June 19th

    There is so much contradictory information out there about separation anxiety—much of which includes myths that need busting. Unfortunately, our industry is rife with myths in virtually every aspect of dog training, and separation anxiety is no exception. As a result, dog trainers and dog guardians alike are inundated with conflicting information about how to help dogs suffering from alone-time behavior problems.

    Have you ever wanted to better understand the myths about separation anxiety? This webinar will dissect many myths about causation and treatment for a clearer understanding of this disorder. Many of the myths reviewed will be genuinely eye-opening, allowing for a more efficient and effective means of resolution.

    The Truths and the Training of Separation Anxiety – June 26th

    Implementing a systematic desensitization protocol is the gold standard for working with separation anxiety. It is essential to remember that there are two equally important words in that phrase – both systematic and desensitization are paramount for this process.

    Unfortunately, while the research on this disorder is significant, concrete evidence surrounding effective treatment remains limited. Separation anxiety training is a complex topic that deserves in-depth discussion. In this webinar, we will review the various aspects of what truly makes systematic desensitization the gold standard for resolving separation-related behavior problems.

    WEBSITE LINK:  https://petprofessionalguild.com/event-5205862

  • Webinar – 6/12/23 – Separation Anxiety Webinar Series: The What and Why of Separation Anxiety – PPG (fee applies)

    Webinar – 6/12/23 – Separation Anxiety Webinar Series: The What and Why of Separation Anxiety – PPG (fee applies)

    These can also be signed up for individually. They are listed as three different events. When you register for the live events, you will also receive copies of the three individual event recordings.

    Three Webinars in June – Each Webinar is at Noon ET

    The What and Why of Separation Anxiety – June 12th

    Dogs experiencing stress when home alone are not at all uncommon. Separation anxiety affects approximately 20% of the pet dog population and is one of the most commonly discussed disorders in the fields of applied animal behavior and veterinary behavior. Yet, despite such prevalence, there remains considerable confusion about what separation anxiety is and why it exists.

    Are you interested in understanding separation-related behaviors further? Then, this webinar is for you. This webinar will dive into a discussion defining separation anxiety and its associated behaviors, in addition to reviewing the somewhat elusive aspects of why we are seeing such a high incidence of the issue.

    The Many Separation Anxiety Myths – June 19th

    There is so much contradictory information out there about separation anxiety—much of which includes myths that need busting. Unfortunately, our industry is rife with myths in virtually every aspect of dog training, and separation anxiety is no exception. As a result, dog trainers and dog guardians alike are inundated with conflicting information about how to help dogs suffering from alone-time behavior problems.

    Have you ever wanted to better understand the myths about separation anxiety? This webinar will dissect many myths about causation and treatment for a clearer understanding of this disorder. Many of the myths reviewed will be genuinely eye-opening, allowing for a more efficient and effective means of resolution.

    The Truths and the Training of Separation Anxiety – June 26th

    Implementing a systematic desensitization protocol is the gold standard for working with separation anxiety. It is essential to remember that there are two equally important words in that phrase – both systematic and desensitization are paramount for this process.

    Unfortunately, while the research on this disorder is significant, concrete evidence surrounding effective treatment remains limited. Separation anxiety training is a complex topic that deserves in-depth discussion. In this webinar, we will review the various aspects of what truly makes systematic desensitization the gold standard for resolving separation-related behavior problems.

    WEBSITE LINK:  https://petprofessionalguild.com/event-5205862

  • Webinar – 6/15/23 – Intra-Household Dog-Dog Aggression: Effective Management, Safety, and Restoring Harmony Part 2 – FDSA (fee applies)

    Webinar – 6/15/23 – Intra-Household Dog-Dog Aggression: Effective Management, Safety, and Restoring Harmony Part 2 – FDSA (fee applies)

    This webinar will build on the information from “Intra-Household Dog-Dog Aggression Part One” and will detail case studies and their successful resolution. It is highly recommended to watch part one in this series as the fundamentals of the behavior change strategies are explained and discussed.

    Join aggression specialist Michael Shikashio CDBC in part two of this two-part series where he will cover:

    • Behavior modification strategies for intra-household aggression
    • Case studies with video of behavior modification in action
    • How to work with competition over resources including food, toys, bones, beds, or even the owners!

    Note: This webinar is back by popular demand, please check your webinar library before purchasing.

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

  • Webinar – 6/15/23 – Intra-Household Dog-Dog Aggression: Effective Management, Safety, and Restoring Harmony Part 1 – FDSA (fee applies)

    Webinar – 6/15/23 – Intra-Household Dog-Dog Aggression: Effective Management, Safety, and Restoring Harmony Part 1 – FDSA (fee applies)

    Do you have dogs that fight over resources in your home? Do you struggle with determining why the dogs are having conflicts? Are you constantly stressed about when the next dog fight might happen?

    Join aggression specialist Michael Shikashio CDBC in part one of this two-part series where he will cover:

    • Common and not so common reasons dogs get into fights in the home
    • Determining a prognosis for a likely outcome in a case
    • How to safely manage dogs with a history of conflict
    • Misconceptions and myths about intra-household aggression

    Note: This webinar is back by popular demand, please check your webinar library before purchasing.

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

  • Webinar – 6/22/23 – Surrender Prevention Series: Reactivity to Unfamiliar People – GoodPup

    Webinar – 6/22/23 – Surrender Prevention Series: Reactivity to Unfamiliar People – GoodPup

    During our spring webinar series, we will break down how to provide preventive management and simple solutions for addressing a variety of common behavioral challenges experienced with the welcoming of new family members. This month’s topic is: Reactivity to Unfamiliar People.

    This webinar is scheduled for June 22 at 2 PM EST. Mark your calendars as you won’t want to miss the final installment of this problem solving series!

    About the Presenter:

    Kait Hembree VTS (Behavior), CVT, KPA CTP

    Head of Training at GoodPup

    Kait Hembree and her team designed the GoodPup Training Program using the latest scientific research and positive reinforcement training techniques. Kait’s career in Animal Behavior spans decades. She has extensive experience working with behavior modification both in and outside veterinary practices and animal shelters. She regularly consults as a dog behavior expert across the country.

    WEBSITE LINK:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/surrender-prevention-series-reactivity-to-unfamiliar-people-tickets-638955833097

  • Webinar – 6/14/23 – Compassion, collaboration, and change: Exploring veterinary social work in animal services – Vancouver Humane Society

    Webinar – 6/14/23 – Compassion, collaboration, and change: Exploring veterinary social work in animal services – Vancouver Humane Society

    Join the Vancouver Humane Society and three expert panelists on Wednesday, June 14th at 9:00 am PDT for an enlightening 60-minute webinar on the field of veterinary social work and its transformative impact on the animal services industry. Designed for professionals and organizations working in humane societies, shelters, veterinary clinics, rescues, and related fields, this webinar aims to foster cross-sector collaboration and promote the well-being of both workers and animal guardians.

    In this 60-minute virtual event, a panel of esteemed experts will delve into the realm of veterinary social work. Two panelists are veterinary social workers, equipped with the knowledge and experience to share real-life examples of how their work has positively influenced animal service organizations. The third panelist is a registered social worker on the path to becoming a veterinary social worker, providing a fresh perspective on the evolving nature of this field.

    Find out how veterinary social work could change animal services…

    During the 40-minute discussion, panelists will explore topics including:

    • What is veterinary social work, and how does it differ from traditional social work?
    • How can working with a veterinary social worker benefit organizations in the animal services industry?
    • How can collaboration between sectors help to combat burnout and compassion fatigue?
    • How can a veterinary social worker help organizations implement trauma-informed practices?
    • What are some challenges or barriers that organizations might face when incorporating veterinary social work into their practices, and how can they overcome them?

    The final 20 minutes of the webinar will be dedicated to audience questions, ensuring an interactive and engaging experience for all participants. Attendees who stay until the end will have the opportunity to enter a giveaway prize draw.

    Don’t miss this chance to discover how veterinary social work could change animal services, and to explore the possibilities for collaboration between human services and the animal services industry. Register now to secure your spot and contribute to the well-being of animals, workers, and organizations alike.

    WEBSITE LINK:  https://vancouverhumanesociety.bc.ca/posts/exploring-veterinary-social-work-in-animal-services/