Whether you want to help find more pets homes or get lost pets back home this fall – Maddie’s Online Instructor-led Courses has something for you! And #ThanksToMaddie, they’re all free.
Harnessing People Power to get Lost Pets Back Home is back for the first time in two years and is instructed by Jenifer Reed, Human Animal Support Services (HASS) Program Implementation Trainer. Attendees can expect to leave with data-backed solutions and tools for implementing lost pet reunification programs like short-term foster placements, tracking actionable data and enhancing lost and found pet communication strategies. By leveraging a shelter support framework and community participation, we can reduce shelter intake, increase return-to-home rates, and create more advocates for lost and stray pets! One former student shared, “I absolutely loved this apprenticeship, and the chance to work with other people who are really passionate about the work that I’m passionate about.”
One key component of getting pets back home can be field services and the safe, effective, and humane utilization of standard-issue field services equipment. In Field Services: Tools and Equipment, led by John Peaveler of Humane Innovations, you’ll learn how to practice just that. Understanding the significance of low-stress restraint and handling techniques is crucial for both animals and animal control officers alike. By prioritizing these methods, we not only ensure the physical and emotional well-being of the animals under the care of the shelters/officers but also ensure the safety and welfare of our dedicated officers. “As a Community Service Officer with a police department I would recommend this course to any of our officers. It would go a long way to helping them better handle situations when myself or another animal control officer is not readily available,” said one former student. Another student shared, “This was such a great resource. I’ve been doing this over a decade and found this VERY helpful.”
If you’re looking to start or enhance your current transport program, Transport: Building Strong Partnerships Locally & Beyond is for you. Transport programs are continuing to grow and evolve to meet the shifting needs of the sheltering and rescue community. Led by Clare Callison, Senior Director of Operations, Austin Pets Alive!, this course will focus on equitable transport partnerships, with a local-first approach. Those looking to be “destination partners” will leave with tools on how to expand their programs, how to say “yes” to more requests for help, and lessons on building sustainable and effective transport programs. Those looking to be “source partners” will leave with lessons on how to increase transports, identify partners, and increase lifesaving outcomes.
“The most helpful part was being able to hear from more of the destination partners on what their experiences have been with source shelters and how they operate. It paints a clearer picture when you have input from both sides,” shared one former student. Join those involved in transport programs across the country to connect and learn from each other!
Learn more and apply today! The deadline to apply for all 11 offerings is Friday, August 30th at 5PM ET.