Resource guarding is a common behavior seen in dogs entering rescue and shelter environments, often arising from stress, uncertainty and past experiences around scarce or valuable resources. “Sharing Isn’t Easy: Resource Guarding in Rescue and Shelter Dogs” presentation explores the current research on resource guarding and how it applies to real-world rescue settings.

Join us on Thursday, May 28 at 12PM PT/3PM ET for the latest in the Maddie’s^® Monthly Behavior Connection series. Participants will learn how to recognize and assess resource guarding safely, understand the factors that contribute to the behavior, and interpret guarding signals in a shelter context. The session will also cover practical management strategies to reduce risk for both dogs and handlers, alongside evidence-based behavior modification approaches that can help improve welfare and adoptability. Presenting will be Tom Candy, senior Clinical Animal Behaviourist Development Officer at Dogs Trust in the United Kingdom.

Designed for animal rescue workers and shelter staff, this presentation aims to provide the knowledge and practical tools needed to support dogs displaying resource guarding while maintaining safe and compassionate care practices.