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I just search for cats then post wherever as long as it seems active. ------------------------------ Bre Hoffman (they/m) Special Little Whiskers Sanctuary Decatur IL SpecialLittleWhiskersKittenRescue.com ------------------------------ View Discussion

Hi Bre, I wondered what subheadings you post in? ------------------------------ April King Volunteer and Board Member Kotor Kitties +1 206 407 5336 http://www.kotorkitties.org ------------------------------ View Discussion

You might try to incorporate training in a low distractions environment - like in your house : ) Asking for good behavior when the dog is presented with things a lot more interesting than your request to not pull isn't very effective. Get practice in the behavior you want in walks from the kitchen to the living room. ------------------------------ Eudora Watson Enrichment Volunteer, Dogs Potsdam Humane Society Shelter New York ------------------------------ View Discussion

I'm a grant writer for a nonprofit animal shelter in Northeastern Minnesota, but I think I have resources that can help, no matter where you're located. My recommended grant hub is GrantWatch . It's much cheaper than Grant Station , and I find it more intuitive to use than Grant Station, Grant Gopher , or Charity How-To . I'd also highly recommend creating a profile on Candid to boost your visibility and trust with charitable organizations, and using Foundation Directory or Foundation Search to see what other organizations' experiences are with different funders. Please consider becoming a member of PetSmart Charities and Petco Love , and Walmart SparkGood . They are incredibly easy forms to fill out, and they're pretty generous with their funding. I've also had quite a bit of luck from our local grocery chain and Costco when it comes to pet food/cat litter/and even volunteer food donations. Lastly, common information that's requested from organizations includes your nonprofit name (the subsequent DBA if applicable), IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter, yearly budgets, strategic planning, mission and vision statements, EIN, your shelter property value (if owned), number of employees, volunteers, foster families, organizational history and impact, board member information, asilomar reports, live-release rates, and projected budget for your prospective project(s), usually with linked items and a budget down to the penny. If you need more information ... View Discussion

Justin, Sounds like you have a great organization! Thank you for doing that work. I've had 5 years experience working with shelter dogs, much of that with dogs others found too difficult to work with. I highly recommend these two books: Jean Donaldson's "Culture Clash," and Jane Killion's "When Pigs Fly! Training Success with Impossible Dogs." Like Richard and Linda, Donaldson cautions against using labels like stubborn and strong-willed. (I agree with Donaldson that stubborn basically means noncompliant with our wishes, whether it's applied to toddlers, dogs, or coffee stains.) And Killion talks about the dog's mind-set and how to bring it around to an eagerness to learn from the handler. Like you, I too, use a short leash and keep the dog close by as a way to not have my arm pulled off, but I consider that a short-term strategy for moving a dog from one place to another, not a training method. You mention your weight advantage in keeping dogs under control, but I wonder if it has served as a disadvantage. I weigh about half of what you weigh and worked very successfully with a problematic Bloodhound I only outweighed by 5 pounds: I've had to develop strategies for training that don't lean on weight or strength. Killion suggests starting training with games rather than with the components of the behavior you are looking for. Here's a game I use with dogs just like yours who crowd and are focused 100 percent on their own agenda. I call it "Go," here's how it works: ... View Discussion

And that presents another issue, who is a trainer or behaviorist? For example, our local shelter has a trainer. He has never been to a class, has no certifications, but he is doing behavioral evaluations. That is the norm. I once asked him if he had perhaps read any of Dr. Patricia McConnell's books? Never heard of her. What about Dr. Zazzy Todd? Nope. I could go on. By law only a veterinary behaviorist may use the title behaviorist, but few people know this information. That guy with the shock collar is not a behaviorist or a trainer. He's a dog abuser. It's a losing battle. On Sun, Jul 26, 2026 at 8:35 AM Richard Klapko via Maddie's Pet Forum < Mail@maddiesfund.org > wrote: Linda, I agree. "Stubborn" is an interpretation placed on the dog, not an explanation of the behavior. It tells us what the handler believes is... Animal Welfare Professionals Post New Discussion Post New Discussion via Email Manage Profile Re: Training very untrained dogs Reply to Discussion Reply to Discussion via Email Reply Privately to Author Reply Privately to Author via Email Jul 26, 2026 6:33 AM Richard Klapko Linda, I agree. "Stubborn" is an interpretation placed on the dog, not an explanation of the behavior. It tells us what the handler believes is happening, but it does not identify ... View Discussion

Linda, I agree. "Stubborn" is an interpretation placed on the dog, not an explanation of the behavior. It tells us what the handler believes is happening, but it does not identify what is actually driving the response. What is labeled stubbornness may reflect fear, stress, pain, confusion, conflicting signals, sensory impairment, previous learning, excessive arousal, caution, or self-preservation. In some cases, the dog may simply not understand what is being requested or may not be physically or emotionally capable of performing it in that environment. This connects directly with my earlier response concerning the male dog who was turning and jumping toward the handler. Labeling him dominant, stubborn, or strong-willed would not explain why the behavior was occurring. Before recommending techniques, we would need to examine the leash and equipment, handler movement, environmental triggers, what happens immediately before and after the behavior, the dog's arousal and recovery, previous training methods, and possible pain, orthopedic, visual, hearing, or neurological concerns. It also connects with a broader concern I recently raised in my post, "Closing the 'Aggressive Dog' Loophole: Should High-Risk Dog Training Require Standardized Intake?" In that post, I argue that terms such as "aggressive dog" are often too broad and poorly defined. An untrained dog, a leash-reactive dog, a fear-based dog, a dog with one reported bite, and a dog involved in a cruelty ... View Discussion

The common use of "stubborn dog" needs to be addressed. Stubborn is NOT a trait of dogs, or any animal for that matter. It can be fear, stress, not understanding, or confusion. This is accorrding to UC Davis and several other universities. I hear stubborn used so many times about my breed. Actually it's is usually lack of understanding what the handler/owner wants the dog to do. Sometimes it can be confusion, caution, or self-preservation. I'm amazed at the number of trainers that have not done their homework. Any trainer that declares a dog stubborn needs to dig deeper and get some education. THere is a reason for veterinary animmal behaviorist. ------------------------------ Linda Moore Pet's Second Chance for Life Inc, DBA PSC Welsh Corgi Rescue ------------------------------ View Discussion

Great idea and program from your neighbor in Kentucky!! ------------------------------ [Christine] [Fredericks] [Volunteer] [Hope for All Pets, Inc.] [Bronston] [KY] ------------------------------ View Discussion

Hi Michelle, I think the short answer is that it has made a huge dent, and continues to, and the more the better, especially because we've lost so much ground in the last six years. The animal welfare field has done amazing things with increasing access–to spay/neuter and to a whole suite of programs and services that help people keep and care for cats and dogs and help keep pets out of shelters. Some areas have much less access than others, especially rural and economically disadvantaged areas. We've also lost services since the pandemic hit across all types of communities. So expanding access is crucial. And, like you said, all the best programs won't eliminate the need for safety nets for pets. But they do make a big dent! Karen ------------------------------ Karen Green, CAWA Ask Karen Green http://askkarengreen.com ------------------------------ View Discussion

I wanted to let folks know that if you have been thinking of teaching kids in your community about responsible pet ownership, we have a free YouTube channel that you can follow/subscribe to! https://www.youtube.com/@WereTalkingPetsWithRobin Each episode is about 6-7 minutes long and contains some aspect of responsible pet care including food/water/shelter, identification, spay/neuter, veterinary care and bite prevention, as well as the role of the animal shelter. We are introducing new episodes each week through September on dogs and cats. Today we uploaded our first episode dubbed in Spanish! More Spanish episodes coming soon. I've spent the past 16 months speaking to thousands of students about responsible pet care in Tennessee, and we realize we are limited by driving distance - so this is our way of getting these messages out there in a way that is easy and free for anyone to use. Our philosophy is that we need to educate children about critical topics that they might not learn at home. Not only will they grow up to be better pet owners, but they can also teach their families what they learned and change behaviors today! Please have a look - I am happy to answer questions about what we do and the books that we use, which are all rooted in responsible pet ownership. I can talk about our strategy when we go to schools to maximize impact. #EducationandTraining ------------------------------ Robin Lapre Author / Educator Charlie's Angels Saving Animals ... View Discussion

Like the question. It would be great if Maddie had a comprehensive course on booting up a small office, then more in depth courses addressing topics like: Office essentials (physical plant) Staff essentials (by skill set and/or certification) IT hardware essentials Software essentials When building an office, it can go terribly well or terribly bad. For small organizations, a bad or poorly advised implementation can be very costly in a number of ways. While not a Shelter Manager, we are looking for 2 other part time positions to fill - one being a Maintenance Tech. We are starting to plan for major renovation of the facility and would like to improve the front office as well - facility & equipment. In the process, we'd like to offer training opportunities for our existing staff. ------------------------------ Robert Shendock Board Member SPCA Eastern Shore VA ------------------------------ View Discussion

sorry about the typo Justin, this is an important question, and I appreciate you raising it. I would be glad to discuss the case privately and explore whether a structured records review, screening process, or professional collaboration could be helpful. As well with anyone else that would like to talk about this area. Richard Klapko klapkorichard@gmail.com ------------------------------ Richard Klapko independent Forensic Investigator Compassion in Action CO ------------------------------ View Discussion

Justin and anyone else reading this respose, thank you for raising this. Based on the behaviors described, I would be cautious about labeling the male as dominant, stubborn, or simply strong-willed. Those descriptions do not identify what is driving the behavior, and technique-specific advice may be ineffective or potentially escalate the response without a more complete assessment. This question cannot honestly be answered with three training tips. Before offering an intervention plan, someone would need to ask questions such as: What leash length and equipment are being used? Where does the turning and jumping occur? Does it happen when the leash is shortened, tightened, or physically redirected? What happens immediately before and after the behavior? Is the dog approaching the handler, blocking, mouthing, jumping, or redirecting arousal? Does the behavior occur with every handler? Is it different on grass, pavement, near traffic, or around other dogs? Has pain, orthopedic difficulty, impaired vision or hearing, or neurologic dysfunction been evaluated? What corrections, handling methods, or training approaches were previously used? Is food functioning as reinforcement, distraction, a lure, or a source of frustration? How quickly does the dog recover after becoming aroused? What has the dog learned the leash, handler position, and walking environment to mean? These questions represent only the first layer. A complex case ... View Discussion

Hi Jeremy, I've been doing grant writing for a little over a year now, so happy to share what's worked for me! I'd start by identifying your greatest need, whether that's veterinary care, food, capital improvements, or something else, and then look for family foundations, banks, and animal welfare organizations whose funding priorities align with that. AI can actually be a great tool here too, it can help generate ideas of where to start looking. A spreadsheet is also a great way to keep everything organized as you go. Once you've got a solid list of opportunities, mark your calendar for when each one opens. From there, start preparing whatever you'll likely need for the application, things like your 990, operating budget, program budget, and prior year's statistics, so you're ready to start working the moment the application opens. When researching a specific opportunity, I'd also recommend digging into the grantee's prior giving, how much they've given to other organizations, what kinds of programs they've funded, and so on. That kind of insight really helps you tailor your application to what they're actually likely to fund. ------------------------------ Rachel Rothman Donor Relations Coordinator Patty Baker Humane Society Naples FL ------------------------------ View Discussion

I write something cute at the top like "Pip chose to grace us w her picture" Then at the bottom in slightly smaller text I post our url ------------------------------ Bre Hoffman (they/m) Special Little Whiskers Sanctuary Decatur IL SpecialLittleWhiskersKittenRescue.com ------------------------------ View Discussion

Assuming GrantWatch and GrantStation are subscription based, are they worth the money in your opinion? ------------------------------ Samantha Singer Volunteer grant writer Big Bones Canine Rescue CO ------------------------------ View Discussion

What does the text say? I'm not able to see it from my phone 😞 ------------------------------ Samantha Singer Volunteer grant writer Big Bones Canine Rescue CO ------------------------------ ... View Discussion

r/animalshelterstories isn't really for advertising adoptables. It's more for discussing shelter issues and commiserating with other shelter/rescue employees and volunteers. Animal advertising and fundraising pleas don't generally go over well in that sub. I'd recommend something more like your local(ish) subreddit, r/pets, r/rescuedogs, r/dogs, r/cats, r/rescuecats, r/pets, breed-specific subs, etc., as those audiences are more pet owners than those involved in sheltering. But whatever you do don't label obvious bully breeds as "lab mixes" or something like that. People will jump all over you for that. ------------------------------ Sam Maurice Humane Society of Jefferson County Jefferson WI https://hsjc-wis.com ------------------------------ View Discussion

I post pics like this and just repost the caption as the title. I probably should do better but it is getting us traffic. ------------------------------ Bre Hoffman (they/m) Special Little Whiskers Sanctuary Decatur IL SpecialLittleWhiskersKittenRescue.com ------------------------------ View Discussion

Good news! The vaccinated and loved program is not ending in September; however, September 20 th will be the last day for anyone to order more vaccines for the remainder of 2026. Get your orders ready! ------------------------------ Mirah Horowitz CEO Lucky Dog Animal Rescue ------------------------------ View Discussion

SAVE THE DATE! We will be accepting applications in three weeks, starting on Friday, August 14th, 2026, for the Fall 2026 session of Online Instructor-Led Courses! Classes will begin the week of September 14th, 2026 and will run 4-6 weeks depending on the course. We'll be offering eleven different courses including TWO brand new offerings ! Courses are led by dynamic and inspiring instructors in the field who are successfully running programs related to the courses. All courses are free #ThanksToMaddie! and include: Self-paced online materials Zoom classes with your instructor and classmates (The number and duration of Zoom classes are course-dependent and range from 4-6 classes at 60-90 minutes) Final project Applications Open on Friday, 8/14/26 and close on Sunday, 8/23/26 FALL 2026 COURSE OFFERINGS: NOTE: Due to high demand, students will only be allowed to take one course during the Fall session. Adoption Marketing: Positive Framing, Connective Storytelling, More Adoptions! w/Caitlin Quinn, Adjunct Instructor at University of Florida Developing Your Own Kitten College w/ Marnie Russ from National Kitten College New! Disaster Response for Animal Control w/Jerrica Owen and Spencer Conover from National Animal Care & Control Association Feline Lifesaving: Essential Cat Programs for Shelters w/Monica Tarant from Give Them Ten Fostering Dogs with Behavior Concerns w/Samantha Wolfman from Wolfman ... View Discussion

Hello everyone, Purple Paws for Peace here. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Placer County, California, and we're seeking professional insight from those with experience in canine behavior and training-particularly with dogs who have experienced trauma. For those unfamiliar with our work, we provide emergency housing for the pets of domestic violence survivors so survivors can safely enter shelter and escape dangerous or potentially life‑threatening situations. While we are very comfortable working with animals, we are continually learning how to support pets who have endured trauma. Our approach centers on patience, consistency, and compassion, paired with firm, appropriate correction when needed. We recently received two dogs who are displaying significant behavioral challenges. Both are friendly and affectionate with humans, which is a tremendous advantage. However, the female shows notable aggression toward other dogs. One of our boarding partners is assisting with her training, but they can only accommodate one dog at a time. The male, whom we are training ourselves, is unneutered and has a very dominant personality. It's clear that neither dog has received structured training in the past. His breed mix-Cane Corso and Husky-means he is large, strong, and highly intelligent. During walks, he pulls constantly. I've worked with pullers before and have always been able to correct the behavior quickly by shortening the leash and keeping the dog at my side. ... View Discussion

One of our go-to methods has been partnering with local restaurants: Applebee's, Panera, non-chain local faves, and doing a once-a-month percentage of the tab donation. Applebee's has been the most generous, with no minimum and a higher % of the tab gift. An out-of-town brewery client that hosts an annual golf outing we participate in offered to do a roundup for May. It netted an extra $400.00 from a business that's 4 hours away! A donut company in the next town over offers delivery to a local shopping center parking lot for a $5 delivery fee. Instead of that parking lot, I've asked if they would agree to drive an extra mile, drop them at our adoption center, saving the owner time waiting, and hopefully bringing in new guests to our facility to get their goodies...and a hot cup of roast-to-order coffee...and maybe a kitten! :) ------------------------------ Jonathan Freed Board of Directors Cats' Cradle NC ------------------------------ View Discussion

I know mailchimp pretty well - I can take a look and see how I can improve it. Email me: drakiesdream@gmail.com ------------------------------ Lindsay Dancy Founder Drakies Dream MA ------------------------------ View Discussion

Hi, For those of you wanting to share references about GI disease and behavior with your veterinary team, here's the article Dr. Haug was referring to, below. Your veterinarian would need to have university library privileges to access the article, or pay for it. Alternatively, you can share the link to this webcast, once it's available. Bidirectional Communication: The Gut–Brain Axis in Companion Animal Health. Julia D. Albright, MA, DVM , DACVB; Lore I. Haug, DVM, DACVB, MS, CABC . Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice. Volume 56, Issue 3, May 2026 pages 649-663. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S019556162600015X ------------------------------ Sheila Segurson, DVM, DACVB Board Certified Veterinary Behaviorist Director of Shelter Solutions Maddie's Fund Pleasanton CA 9258608284 ------------------------------ View Discussion

Haven't had much luck on threads. Reddit definitely can be helpful though for advice or getting eyes on a pet. ------------------------------ Winny W Volunteer Furever and Pawways TN ------------------------------ View Discussion

Hi, Here's the presentation slides for today's webcast about GI disease and behavior. Looking forward to seeing everyone at noon PT/3 pm ET! Sign up for the webcast ------------------------------ Sheila Segurson, DVM, DACVB Board Certified Veterinary Behaviorist Director of Shelter Solutions Maddie's Fund Pleasanton CA 9258608284 ------------------------------ View Discussion

Great, thanks! I'll check out that sub. 🙂 ------------------------------ Samantha Singer Volunteer grant writer Big Bones Canine Rescue CO ------------------------------ ... View Discussion

Reddit is huge for marketing. I'd recommend posting in r/animalshelterstories, and other dog or cat related subs depending on your rescue. ------------------------------ Kyle Leighton Founder PawPlacer NY ------------------------------ View Discussion

Thank you so much! This could be (budget permitting) very, very helpful! ------------------------------ Christine Blank Shelter Manager Independence Animal Services MO ------------------------------ View Discussion

PVC, FRP(we used these) and HDPE. I found this company online because I searched using "dairy," but you can buy these and similar boards elsewhere and online and in different thicknesses. If you buy thick enough, dogs can't destroy them. Mine are about 1/4 inch. https://trusscore.com/applications/dairy-facilities.html ------------------------------ Augusta Farley ------------------------------ View Discussion

This is a fascinating reminder that parasite prevention has played a significant role not only in veterinary medicine, but also in shaping how people and pets live together as family. Maintaining that progress requires continued education, access to veterinary care, and consistent prevention-even when the diseases and infestations we are preventing are no longer highly visible. The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) supports this work by bringing together veterinarians, veterinary parasitologists, public health experts, and other animal health professionals to develop evidence-based parasite-control guidance. Its interactive Parasite Prevalence Maps allow pet families and veterinary professionals to explore reported risks for heartworm, tick-borne diseases, intestinal parasites, and other infections by location. These maps can help communities better understand that parasite exposure varies geographically and can change over time. Recent Cyclospora activity also demonstrates why "success amnesia" can extend beyond veterinary medicine. In July 2026, the CDC and FDA announced investigations into multiple clusters of cyclosporiasis. A major outbreak linked to recalled iceberg lettuce from central Mexico affected more than 1,644 people in five states and resulted in 94 hospitalizations. Follow the CDC's current Cyclospora outbreak investigation and recall guidance. Cyclospora cayetanensis is a foodborne parasite that infects humans; pets are not known hosts. ... View Discussion

It was so interesting to do Module 1 and Module 2; really enjoyed the course. ------------------------------ Rachel Ide Animal Services Director Young-Williams Animal Center TN ------------------------------ View Discussion

Has anyone had any luck going viral on Threads or had a lot of engagement on Reddit? We do the usual Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, but I'm trying to tap into Threads and Reddit, which I think are resources that could be used more. #MarketingandSocialMedia ------------------------------ Samantha Singer Volunteer grant writer Big Bones Canine Rescue CO ------------------------------ View Discussion

Apologies if this is the wrong place, brand new to the forum. I foster out of NC for a few local groups (dogs) and our county shelter (dogs and cats). I know things are not great where I'm at but our community does amazing things everyday. Recently I traveled to Bay County FL to visit my dying father. I have not been here in close to a decade. I have tried to turn off my rescue brain so I could focus on my father. Unfortunately I have walked right into a horrible cat crisis. I am aware of a litter of kittens about to be split up and put out on different properties. The last litter they did that too promptly disappeared. They are not weaned and not vetted. That is the way of things down here it seems. I have spoken to MANY rescues here and the local spay clinic. They are telling me Bay County has some of the worst euth rates in all of the state. The rescues are saying that it is partly a lack of education but partly they are still suffering fallout from the hurricane that ripped through here 8 years back (the humane society is still shuttered). Apparently everyone's hands are tied in regards to these kittens. I leave back for NC Friday and have been networking the best I can to no avail. Not sure what else to do. If I had space and resources (same issue everyone else has ) I would gladly take them back to NC with me. That said, none of the rescues I work with can help because they only do dogs or are limited to county borders. I am currently paying for medication and care ... View Discussion

"Thank you so much for the kind words! Haven was truly special, and seeing her transform from a neglected, fearful pup into a confident family dog makes every single late night worth it. Living with them 24/7 inside the house allows us to catch those tiny behavioral breakthroughs that a traditional kennel might miss. We are so proud of her!" ------------------------------ Tami Grady Founder/Director Boo's Crew: A GSD Rescue Inc ID ------------------------------ View Discussion

Does anyone have suggestions for dog proof and weather proof panels that can be attached to existing chain link fences to reduce the fighting between dogs with a shared fence? #Behavior,TrainingandEnrichment #DataandTechnology ------------------------------ Christine Blank Shelter Manager Independence Animal Shelter MO ------------------------------ View Discussion

Our MailChimp newsletter looks real dated (because it is!) and we are wondering if anyone out there feels like they're a MailChimp design wiz and willing to lend us a little help developing a new template. If no one feels like they have the time, even sharing a screenshot or two - or directing me to your website so I can subscribe myself - would be helpful! Our little OTAT team in West Texas thanks you in advance! We're excited to see what creative things you all are doing to elevate your newsletter game! - Heather #DataandTechnology #MarketingandSocialMedia ------------------------------ Heather Hall Director OTAT-West Texas TX ------------------------------ View Discussion

Wow this is so cool and honestly such a good idea. Love what all of you are doing! ------------------------------ Kyle Leighton Founder PawPlacer NY ------------------------------ View Discussion

Wow love this!! ------------------------------ Kyle Leighton Founder PawPlacer NY ------------------------------ View Discussion

Super interesting read, thanks for sharing! ------------------------------ Kyle Leighton Founder PawPlacer NY ------------------------------ View Discussion

Hi Jessica, I'm Kyle, the founder and creator of PawPlacer ( www.pawplacer.com ). We built PawPlacer, a management platform built for shelters and rescues of all sizes. We've been heads down building over the last few years and now have more than 250 features. Reading through the replies, it sounds like many organizations are running into the same issue: using one platform for animal management, another for volunteer scheduling, another for communication, and another for forms. It works, but it also means managing multiple subscriptions and keeping information synchronized across different systems. We built PawPlacer because we kept hearing the same frustrations. Rescues aren't short on heart; they're short on time, and a lot of that time gets spent re-entering information across multiple tools. Along with full pet profiles, medical records, adoptions, fosters, donations, and reporting, PawPlacer includes volunteer management with applications, contact management, custom forms, role tracking, task boards, a shared calendar, and permission levels, all connected to the rest of your organization. Since everything lives in one place, volunteers, adopters, fosters, donors, and staff all become part of the same unified system. It also includes public pet search, embeddable forms, Petfinder and GetBuddy syncing, flyer generation, a REST API and SDK for developers, and reporting with full data export when you need it. We built PawPlacer around feedback from shelters and ... View Discussion

Hi Sofia, I'm Kyle, the founder of PawPlacer ( www.pawplacer.com ). We built PawPlacer after hearing many of the same frustrations you're describing from shelters and rescues trying to manage increasingly complex operations. Based on everything you've listed-1,500+ annual intakes, a public clinic, shelter medicine, TNR, wellness services, fosters, offsite adoptions, day trips, volunteers, law enforcement, municipal contracts, camps, and community partnerships-I would focus less on comparing feature checklists and more on how well each system handles all of those workflows together. A lot of software does one or two of those things well, but organizations often end up managing the rest through spreadsheets or separate tools. We designed PawPlacer to bring those pieces together in one platform. Some of the functionality that may be relevant includes: Comprehensive pet records with medical histories, behavior notes, documents, QR kennel cards, and relationships. Medical management for exams, vaccines, medications, weight logs, procedures, and clinic records. Custom forms and workflows for public wellness clinics, TNR, owner surrenders, fosters, volunteers, adopters, and community programs. Foster management, volunteer management, tasks, shared calendars, and event coordination. Offsite adoption support, public pet listings, Petfinder syncing, embeddable website widgets, and flyer generation. Donation management, wishlists, Stripe/Square checkout, contracts, ... View Discussion

Hi Jen, I'm Kyle, the founder of PawPlacer ( www.pawplacer.com ). Reading your post, it sounds like your biggest concerns aren't really about adoption fees, they're about the time you've already invested, the cost of switching, and finding something that can support your wellness clinics and growing community programs without creating even more work. That's actually one of the main reasons we built PawPlacer. We wanted rescues to be able to manage adoptions, medical records, wellness clinics, fosters, volunteers, donors, pet pantry programs, and custom forms in one place instead of stitching together multiple systems. A few things that might be relevant: Robust medical records with vaccines, exams, medications, weight logs, documents, and bulk updates. Fully customizable forms for intake, wellness clinics, owner surrenders, fosters, adopters, volunteers, and anything else you need. Pet records, people, donations, tasks, calendars, reports, and communications all tied together. Petfinder syncing, embeddable website widgets, a public pet search, flyer generation, and an API if you ever need it. Import tools to help bring your existing data over rather than starting from scratch. We have over 250 features now, but our biggest focus has always been saving rescues time. Like you said, none of these systems are perfect, but we spend a lot of time listening to rescue feedback and shipping improvements based on what organizations actually need. Since cost is ... View Discussion

Hey Deirdre, I'm Kyle the founder and creator of PawPlacer ( www.pawplacer.com ). We built PawPlacer , a management platform built for shelters and rescues of all sizes. Unlike ShelterLuv, we do not charge per adoption. Comparatively, to PetPoint and ShelterLuv, we have: Full pet profiles: medical history, photos, documents, litters/relationships, status tracking, printable kennel cards with QR codes Adopters, fosters, volunteers, donors, and owner-surrenders, each with their own applications and status tracking A real adoption pipeline, with Stripe/Square checkout, configurable fees, contracts, and receipts built in Medical records: exams, vaccines, meds, weight logs, preventatives, plus a shared directory of vets and clinics Donations and wishlists, so supporters can fund specific items or needs Task boards, a shared calendar, and an "upcoming" view so nothing important slips through the cracks Public pet search, embeddable forms, a flyer maker, Petfinder, and GetBuddy syncing Custom forms you can build yourself for intake or applications, no developer needed Reporting and data export when you need to pull numbers or hand things off REST API and SDK for developers It works for a small foster-based rescue just as well as a huge shelter with tons of staff and permission levels. We built this because we kept hearing the same complaints: rescues aren't short on heart, ... View Discussion

Hey everyone! We are looking into cost savings for food at our shelter. We typically house 400 animals per year. Do you know the cost differences between the Hills shelter program and the Royal Canin program? They aren't listed clearly anywhere and the reps won't provide the answer over the phone. I'd also appreciate any insight you may have on these programs or other low cost feeding programs for shelters. Thanks everyone! #AccesstoCare ------------------------------ Alex Maloney Executive Director Wayward Journey CA ------------------------------ View Discussion

This DVM360 article explores how our modern understanding of the intimate human-animal bond was enabled by 1990s advancements in veterinary parasite control, allowing pets to transition from outdoor spaces into homes as family members. Modern parasite control transformed pets into indoor companions by shifting veterinary medicine from reactive treatment to proactive, year-round prevention. Innovations in flea, tick, and worm preventatives eliminated the severe infestations that historically forced pets to live outdoors. However, the article outlines how current "success amnesia" regarding parasite risks threatens to undermine this progress, where the success of modern veterinary medicine causes both pet families and veterinarians to forget how severe and destructive parasite infestations have the potential to be. Read the full article here: https://www.dvm360.com/view/the-human-animal-bond-was-built-on-parasite-control ------------------------------ Kayla Anderson Veterinary Social Worker Center for Pet Family Well-Being, the University of Tennessee ------------------------------ View Discussion

Working as a trainer in the Sacramento area, the most common call our facility gets is from families whose dog was declined everywhere else: bite history, severe leash reactivity, or kennel stress severe enough that standard boarding sends the dog home worse than it arrived. A few patterns that have held up consistently across these cases: Individual housing changes outcomes more than any training protocol. Dogs that shut down or escalate in kennel rows often settle within 48 hours once noise, visual pressure and rotating handlers are removed. Appetite is the fastest indicator: a dog eating by day two is decompressing normally, and a dog refusing two consecutive meals needs the routine adjusted. One consistent handler beats a rotating team. For dogs with fear based reactivity, predictability seems to matter more than handler skill level. By day two the handler is a known quantity, and known quantities are what anxious dogs build safety on. Scent from home helps measurably. Unwashed bedding and a worn shirt lower stress in kenneled dogs, and it costs nothing to implement. The 3-3-3 adjustment window gets underused in behavior labeling. A number of dogs referred to us as reactive turned out to be adopted dogs still inside the first three weeks. The same behavior at month four is a genuine training case; at week two it is often transition stress. We go deeper into that distinction in our reactive dog training resources for owners. Curious what others are seeing, particularly ... View Discussion

Thank you @Sharon Wilson for this wonderful feedback! We are thrilled that you found the module informative and engaging. Hearing that you would like to share it with your entire staff means a great deal to us. Thank you for taking the time to complete the module and help us strengthen this resource! ------------------------------ T' Fisher, Director of Operations Center for Pet Family Well-Being ------------------------------ View Discussion

This message was posted by a user wishing to remain anonymous I am so sorry for what you've experienced. That sounds awful. I left a small, private shelter because I did not agree with the changes the new leadership wanted to implement. I had been with the organization for over 10 years (I started as a volunteer, and worked there for 9 1/2 years), through several CEO's, veterinarians, and finally an ED. It was personally and professionally one of the most difficult experiences of my life. Some of the people with whom I was working were toxic, and that was taking a toll on my mental health and overall well-being. We can't help others if we don't take care of ourselves. I did feel like I abandoned the dogs there I had come to know so well, but as life turns out I was able to be a part of their lives still it just looked very different. I learned a couple of very important things for myself. One is that I could absolutely still be involved in animal welfare, even if on a smaller scale. I didn't stop caring or stop being involved in helping animals who needed it even though it wasn't something I did everyday. The other thing is between that I had experiences after I was no longer with the first shelter where I worked that I wouldn't have had otherwise. Specifically I met two amazing dogs who shaped my life, and taught me things I may not have learned otherwise. Those experiences all helped prepare me to be where I am now. Feeling guilty is normal, but don't be ashamed. You ... View Discussion

I just completed this module. This course was great and I and would love to be able to share it with our entire staff. Thank you for creating something that is not only informative but has interactive elements to keep the participant engaged. Great job! ------------------------------ Sharon Wilson Shelter or rescue manager Greenville Humane Society ------------------------------ View Discussion

I've had great results with https://redeagle.tech/services/web-design for my small business website. Their fixed pricing means no surprises, and I love how they've made my site mobile-responsive and SEO-optimized. Plus, owning all aspects of it with no lock-in contracts is a bonus. Give them a look if you're considering a professional touch for your site. ------------------------------ Helopant Lopk Driver Hortex NY ------------------------------ View Discussion

I am so sorry you are going through this and honestly think it is a common happening in animal care. I love what I do and love where I work, but sometimes I have to focus on the good and not dwell on the bad and ignore the toxicity. I think a lot of places are hard on employees and volunteers because they know you are there for the animals. Your mental health is important and I hope your management sees all the good you are doing and helps find a way to create more balance and a better working environment. ------------------------------ Stefanie Schmidt Animal Welfare Specialist Hearts Alive Village NV ------------------------------ View Discussion

I found this forum looking for pet organizations that may want some donations for their fundraisers. I believe if you contact smaller online businesses they would love to offer gift certificates or items for raffle baskets. My advice is that you can always ask and it may be welcome. Of course besides from helping good causes, they would like a mention or a little promotion in return. ------------------------------ Jeremy Pellani Owner Adirondack Stone Work https://www.petmemorial.net ------------------------------ View Discussion

Love this! Thank you so much, Jodie! ------------------------------ Peter Chang Executive Director OC Animal Allies CA ------------------------------ View Discussion

"Hi everyone! I wanted to share a tribute to one of our 10 successful German Shepherd rescues from this past year. Haven came to us from a horrific neglect situation-starving, living in a tiny pen with no fresh water, and facing a very grim future. Because we operate a 24/7 in-home foster and rehabilitation model, Haven came to live directly inside my house. With the patience of my personal dogs, Boo and Harlow, Haven learned how to decompress, play, build confidence, and trust humans again. She was successfully adopted into a wonderful, loving family just in time for the holidays. I wrote this poem for her on her adoption day and wanted to share it as a testament to why intensive, home-based breed rescue is so vital ! The Tribute: Always hungry never full, Didn't have a water bowl. Nowhere warm and dry to go, Life dragged on so very slow. All alone in a small pen, You would die the question WHEN? Humans looked away but ONE, She knew something must be done. Drove all day to rescue you, Pleaded for help from Boos Crew. We went to work right away, A life was saved, happy day! You were unsure what to do, Da Boo patiently showed you! No need to worry or fear, You are safe and loved while here. You blossomed and settled down, Loved the car rides into town. Gained some weight, crazy to see, How quickly changed life can be! Harlow showed you how to play, Boo ... View Discussion

We only need four more beta testers ! Please help us reach our goal by completing Module 2: Building Personal Resilience and sharing your feedback. The module takes no more than one hour, and your input will help strengthen this training for professionals working across animal welfare, helping professions, and One Health systems. Complete the beta test here: https://opendoorschool.thinkific.com/courses/beta-test-module2-resilience Thank you for helping us cross the finish line! ------------------------------ T' Fisher, Director of Operations Center for Pet Family Well-Being ------------------------------ View Discussion

Lots of great responses here! I'll add that I wish I could tell foster parents or wish they would know it's okay to "shop around" to find an organization who's requirements and support are a good fit for them personally. Don't feel badly if you foster one time and when you're done, decide to try another organization. Just because it wasn't the best experience for you with that one organization, it's so worth it to try again and find a good fit! I've fostered for 20+ years for all types or shelters and rescues in different cities, both as staff and a volunteer. What was the best fit for me changed over the years, especially as my living situation and own animals changed. One thing that remained constant was I enjoy... need really... to be involved with the adoption. Adopters that update me post-adoption, even years later, are what fueled me through the emotional rollercoaster that is so often a part of fostering, especially kittens. On a related note, Adopt a Pet's upcoming Tail Talk webinar is about fostering! Here's the info below if you'd like to register. It's free and you can attend live to ask questions, or get sent a link to watch the recording later: From Burnout to Buy-In: Best Practices for Engaging and Retaining Fosters Tuesday, August 25, 2026 12:00 pm ET/9:00 am PT Foster families are the lifeline of animal welfare, but keeping them engaged and supported can be challenging. Join Adopt a Pet and Kimberly Ruiz, Chief Programs Officer from Doobert, ... View Discussion

I would say absolutely, and I say this because we have seen quantifiable improvement in the animals quality of life in our county as well as the amount of animals surrendered since we started this type of programming back in 2015. I will say, though, that success does not always look the same in every place and that the animal welfare world as a whole needs to do more to work WITH communities and see what their priorities are and what needs they identify and the most important. Sometimes it can be hard to be effective if you don't have enough community buy in. ------------------------------ Elsa Enstrom Helpline Coordinator Asheville Humane Society NC ------------------------------ View Discussion

This message was posted by a user wishing to remain anonymous It is sad to read so many people in rescue are feeling this way, or have experienced this; I've been there. I freed myself and moved on. I feel more effective with another local organization and I have found my joy again. There is absolutely nothing more valuable than our sense of peace. Nothing at all. View Discussion

Thank you!!! Simone On Tue, Jul 21, 2026 at 09:31 Kelly Duer via Maddie's Pet Forum < Mail@maddiesfund.org > wrote: Hi Simone, So glad you asked! Finding ringworm fosters can be tricky, but I think the way you talk about it is one of the most important factors... -posted to the "Animal Welfare Professionals" community Animal Welfare Professionals Post New Discussion Post New Discussion via Email Manage Profile Re: How to recruit more fosters for ring worm kittens Reply to Discussion Reply to Discussion via Email Reply Privately to Author Reply Privately to Author via Email Jul 21, 2026 7:29 AM | view attached Kelly Duer Hi Simone, So glad you asked! Finding ringworm fosters can be tricky, but I think the way you talk about it is one of the most important factors. Working with different organizations it's been super eye-opening to see one group have no trouble finding fosters for kittens with ringworm, and another really struggling...both in the same community. Anyway, I hope the attached document is helpful! ------------------------------ Kelly Duer Senior Shelter Solutions Specialist Maddie's Fund ------------------------------ Reply to Discussion Reply to Discussion via Email Reply Privately to Author ... View Discussion

Hi Simone, So glad you asked! Finding ringworm fosters can be tricky, but I think the way you talk about it is one of the most important factors. Working with different organizations it's been super eye-opening to see one group have no trouble finding fosters for kittens with ringworm, and another really struggling...both in the same community. Several years ago I fostered pretty heavily for one organization that was transferring in pets straight from the Iso unit at a local shelter. We probably had 50 cats and kittens with ringworm come through our house and were able to keep our own 7 pets and us from catching it. The only time one of my cats ever got it was when we fostered a healthy cat and found out he had ringworm after we'd introduced him to my pets (and even then, it was only transferred to our super senior kitty). Anyway, I hope the attached document is helpful, and here's a link to a short video on ringworm that you can share with your fosters: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CfwgibXkep8&list=PLE5ezCx0PBCn-w_VXyJNOl51R8LtBXxiO&index=9 ------------------------------ Kelly Duer Senior Shelter Solutions Specialist Maddie's Fund ------------------------------ View Discussion

K.D., I think you are right that trust is a leading indicator, and I want to push on the measurement half of your post, because that is where this idea usually dies. The methods you listed are the standard ones. Did you feel respected. Would you return. Would you recommend us. Were you treated with dignity. Every one of those is asked of somebody who already walked through the door. But the whole premise of your argument is that when trust is low, people do not come. Which means a satisfaction survey systematically cannot see the population you most need to measure. You will get good scores from the families who already trust you and silence from the ones who do not, and the number will look like it is improving while the actual problem sits untouched in a neighborhood that has never called you once. So I would measure trust behaviorally instead. Not what people say about us. What people do. The first one is timing. How far ahead of the crisis does the call come? A family that phones three weeks before the eviction trusts you. The same family phoning the morning of does not, or did not know you existed, and both of those are things you can fix. If trust is rising, contacts move earlier. That is a number you can chart. The second is whether they come back for something different. Someone who used the pantry in March and calls you about a vet bill in July has decided you are safe. Single-service households who never return are telling you something too. The third one ... View Discussion

To the original poster: you asked what we wish fosters knew, and what came back included nine numbered items about what fosters get wrong. So let me say first that Devon's list is the most useful post in this thread and I would hand it to every foster I onboard. Nothing below is a disagreement with her. But her number one deserves a longer answer than it got, because she is right that it is the biggest one. Seven hundred people on a roster who want healthy, social kittens, two at a time. That is not selfishness. Nearly every time I have dug into it, it is fear wearing the costume of preference. People pick the easy animal because nobody ever taught them how to handle a hard one, and the cost of getting it wrong lands on their own dog, their own kid, their own carpet. You cannot scold somebody into competence. If we want fosters to take the shy adult, the nursing mom, the ringworm litter, the skill has to be built before the ask is made. That is the piece I would add to this thread. Most foster programs are structured as a one-way ask. Take this animal, follow these protocols, report these symptoms, return on this date. Everything moves from the organization to the foster as instruction, and the only thing moving back is labor. Then we are surprised that retention is thin and everyone wants the easy ones. We run a program called Foster-to-Train. The foster does not just house the dog, they are taught basic obedience work and they do it with the animal in their own home. ... View Discussion

Michelle, glad you put this up. Disclosure since it matters: Peaceful Coexistence is one of our AWRN partners, so I have watched this question up close in her service area and in mine. Stacy's post is the one I would build on, because sequencing matters more than the menu. There is hard evidence behind it. A twelve-year controlled study in urban Israel, published in PNAS in 2022, found that sterilization only reversed population growth when it was intensive, geographically contiguous, and sustained above roughly 70 percent of the population. Below that threshold, compensatory effects ate the gains. Three separate population models put the number somewhere between 70 and 94 percent. Which means scattered, part-time, everybody-does-a-little spay/neuter does not move the population, and that is a hard thing to hear when scattered and part-time is exactly what the funding allows. Hali, the paragraph where you caught yourself on the repeat pantry client is the most useful thing in this thread. You named the frustration honestly and then landed on the right side of it. That animal still needs food. Most of us have had that argument with ourselves in a parking lot. Judy, on the curiosity question, I would offer one reframe and I offer it with respect. When someone takes a puppy out of a Walmart parking lot and never goes looking for what it needs, that is usually not incuriosity. It is that nobody in their life ever modeled that a pet comes with a care schedule, and no system around ... View Discussion

I think at one point I might have totally disagreed with this. But, over the past few years, everything is getting so bad with good old Project 2025. So much has been stripped away from ordinary folks and folks already living on the cusp. It's only rational to see it have a domino effect in our society. So many people facing job insecurity, housing insecurity, food insecurity, and just when you think it can't get any worse, just turn on the real news and it gets worse. I am pretty disgusted of WASTE, FRAUD, AND ABUSE! And, it is not being committed by the average person. The people digging for the WASTE, FRAUD, AND ABUSE, were and are the worst offenders. I really think our national budget needs to be flipped upside down so the billions and trillions are going to improve people and animal lives, not destroying lives. I think somewhere along the line the priorities in this country got totally screwed up. Not only does it break my heart to see so many suffer but it also infuriates me. Your post is absolutely awesome and could not have been posted at a better time! ------------------------------ Kim Conroy ------------------------------ View Discussion

I work for the organization Collaborative for Health & Environment (CHE) and we are starting a health education/science translation project on pets and exposures to environmental toxins. Our purpose is to advocate for pet guardians to make changes in their pet's environment to reduce toxic pesticides, household cleaners, flame retardants, and more for both their pet's health and their own health. Does anyone else work in this area? We're seeking funding right now, if anyone has suggestions. #CommunityPartnerships* ------------------------------ Lianna Hartmour Program and Communications Director Collaborative for Health & Environment CA ------------------------------ View Discussion

Devon, Yes yes and YES!! Fostering is not for everyone - and that's Ok. I am a Foster Program Manager, and during this difficult kitten season (and every kitten season is challenging!) I keep thinking, "We are here to provide you training and support, but you are also here to help us and not make our lives a lot harder." I get that if you're new you are still learning. I am absolutely willing to teach you. Our org is known for providing great support for our foster homes. We provide supplies. We have platforms that help you assess levels of concern and avoid panic - IF you use them! Our onboarding materials go over Everything! We give you detailed first-day instructions. Yet many people want to challenge our protocols or ignore them or they only want "healthy kittens" (which we can never promise!) or 1 kitten at a time, or they can't deal with diarrhea. Or they leave town for 3 days and leave the husband to care for weaning kittens that aren't eating enough and then he needs to go to a football game all day. And if you want to adopt, go ahead and adopt! There are so many animals ready and waiting for homes, so many choices. You will find a connection and a good fit. (I'm not referring to foster "fails" which... we've all done, ha!) Rescue work is not a glowing, Instagram world. We are trying to save sick, vulnerable animals, often with behavioral challenges, getting them through their toughest days sometimes. We are short-staffed and only have so much time and energy. We are ... View Discussion

Unfortunately Fix a Friend is dedicated to NC. here is how they are funded: "Fix A Friend Spay Neuter Clinic is a charity that has been brought to you by The Miss Avis Davis Fund, PetSmart Charities®, State Farm & Adopt an Angel . We are a member of the National Spay Neuter Response Team and have been trained by the Humane Alliance. The NSNRT's nationwide collective mission is to end the euthanasia of healthy companion animals in the US. Our mission is to reduce euthanasia in our local county shelters. We exist solely to someday see empty cages in our animal shelter." Their facility was decimated a couple years ago due to an unnamed storm. However during their rebuild process which is complete they received a small motorhome outfitted for surgeries and did their surgeries on site in the motor home. Iam thinking that if other spay neuter clinics could be granted the same especially in rural areas that they could be sent to specific areas for S/N on site. Of course something would need to be sent to the community targeted ahead of time with instructions for care pre and post op. Or potentially there could be a S/N for ferals in certain areas if trapped ahead of time. I just dont know what recovery time is and when they can be released. Lots to think about. ------------------------------ Carol Bridges President Winding River Paws for a Cause NC ------------------------------ View Discussion

We are excited to announce our next webinar : Bullying in Animal Welfare Webinar will be held on Thursday September 24 , 2026 from 3-5pm EST via Zoom. Once enrolled, you will receive the Zoom link via a calendar invite. Description: Join us for our September webinar, a powerful panel discussion led by Kim Alboum, exploring the often-overlooked issue of workplace bullying within the animal welfare profession. Workplace bullying can have a profound impact on both individuals and organizations, contributing to emotional and physical stress, decreased job satisfaction, burnout, trauma, and challenges related to mental health and well-being. During this important conversation, panelists will share personal experiences, lessons learned, and strategies for recognizing, addressing, and preventing bullying in the workplace. The discussion will also examine the connections between workplace bullying, trauma, burnout, PTSD, and substance abuse, while highlighting the importance of creating supportive and healthy workplace cultures throughout the animal welfare field. Panelists: Becca Morris - Patty Baker Humane Society Naples Leah Craig - Brother Wolf Brittney Tennant - Cheyenne Animal Shelter Linda Anderson - Maricopa County Animal Services Tiffany Leader - See the Wonder Iona Craig - See the Wonder This webinar is for animal shelter staff only. Please sign up via this link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094BA4AD2DA4FFC61-64795068-bullying#/ ... View Discussion

We are excited to announce our next webinar : Don ' t Think You Can Start a Spay Neuter Program? Yes, You Can! Webinar will be held on Thursday August 20, 2026 from 3-5pm EST via Zoom. Once enrolled, you will receive the Zoom link via a calendar invite. Description: Spay/neuter is more critical than ever in helping reduce pet overpopulation and save lives. Join us for an engaging discussion on the challenges and opportunities involved in developing and sustaining spay/neuter programs through partnerships and collaboration. Our panel of shelter professionals from organizations of all sizes will share real-world experiences, lessons learned, and practical strategies for overcoming common obstacles when establishing or expanding spay/neuter services. Whether you're just getting started or looking to strengthen your existing efforts, this webinar will provide valuable insights and actionable ideas to help make your spay/neuter program a success. Presenters: Shelley Delahoussaye - Animal Shelter Manager - Lafayette Animal Shelter & Care Center Cole Wakefield - Executive Director - Good Shepherd Humane Society Ruby Fooks - Shelter Director - Friends of Butler County Animals Cheryl Martinez - Executive Director - People Assisting Animal Control Katie Jarl - VP Government Relations - Animal Policy Group Jamie Clark - Executive Director - Acadiana Animal Aid Angie Cherry - Executive Director - Helping Paws ... View Discussion

A lot of shelter intake isn't caused by a lack of love for pets. It's often a lack of access to resources, education, affordable care, or support during difficult times. If we can help families before they reach a crisis point, we can keep more pets in loving homes and reduce pressure on shelters. Prevention may not solve everything, but it's a step worth investing in. ❤️🐾 ------------------------------ Kelli Porti Veteran & Community Outreach Liaison. Army Veteran Paws of War NY ------------------------------ ... View Discussion

In SE NC we have a huge problem with dog back yard breeding (obviously no s/n going on there) and so often if they don't sell the dogs they just take them to the county shelter (if they are lucky enough to not be dumped in the forest). With regards to kittens, although every dog and cat that is adopted at the county shelter are given a certificate for a free s/n at Fix a Friend, so often people do not do it. They allow their kittens to be outside and then the babies keep coming. People know what they are doing because they will round up the kittens and drop them in other neighborhoods as strays to fend for themselves and hope some kind soul feeds them. There is a local group called Paws-Ability that will help trap and s/n if they are called upon. The county shelter has limited resources to do this. I wonder if it would help if a Fix a Friend motor home parked in some of these rural areas would help get people to do the right thing. ------------------------------ Carol Bridges President Winding River Paws for a Cause NC ------------------------------ View Discussion

I am new at fostering again after a 20+ year hiatus. My first set of rescue kitties had ring worm. I am not saying it has been easy and I did get ringworm myself. I believe providing some basic guidelines of how to handle ringworm cases that ease some of the internet panic out there may help. For instance, providing guidelines about how long and how to separate foster kitty groups that have ring worm from other foster kitty groups, best practices about washing and cleaning the environment and treatment protocol. Information about what the oral medicine does versus the lime sulfur dips versus lime sulfur cream would also help. When I brought them home from the shelter, the kitties were going to be up for adoption the following day and they had not been cured of ring worm yet. For the first few weeks I wore gloves every time I picked them up, then I just resorted to washing my hands after handling them. After a few weeks of treatment, my kitties only had spores showing on their head so I continued the 7on/7off with oral but just used the lime sulfur cream on their faces & ears. After a Wood's Lamp did not show anymore bright green spores, I thought I was in the clear and started cuddling the affected kitties against my chest. Guess where the ring worm showed up on me... my chest. ------------------------------ Danielle Clark Foster SOS Cat Rescue TX ------------------------------ View Discussion

I don't think access to care and resources alone would completely end the shelter crisis, but I do believe they would make a significant difference. In rural and underserved communities, access to veterinary care is one of the biggest obstacles pet owners face. Cost is another major barrier. But I also believe education is one of the most critical pieces. If people do not have the information they need, how can we expect them to make informed decisions about best practices for their pets? One of the biggest challenges for our shelter is simply getting information out to the public. Many people in our community do not have reliable internet access or use social media, so reaching them consistently can be difficult. At our shelter, we try to bridge that gap by offering monthly vaccine clinics that include core vaccines, heartworm testing, FeLV/FIV testing, IDEXX testing for early detection, microchipping, pet food pantry support, and transport options for spay/neuter surgery. These services help remove some of the barriers that keep pets from receiving basic care. We do have repeat clients who use the pet food pantry, and I'll be honest, there have been moments when I have felt frustrated, especially when someone comes in with a brand new puppy they purchased, in addition to several pets they already own. But after reflecting on it, that animal still needs food. That animal still needs access to care. And that owner may need education and support more than judgment. ... View Discussion

Judith, I love your explanation on how your former director was educating the kids on population control. For me this was an ah-haw moment. ------------------------------ Hali Gray Manager Almost Home Animal Rescue Chariton, IA 5009 almosthomear.com ------------------------------ View Discussion

Hello Michelle, I also agree that this isn't yes or no. I think in every community we need to do a community cat needs assessment to determine the system oriented solutions that are needed. I am in the cat space so I am using cats as my example. Every community is different. But I can generalize a bit. 1. Low income and rural areas need 100% access to s/n. If resources are going into wellness and emergency care then support might be too diffuse to make an impact. S/N is a must have at very high volume to keep the population under control. Using the Community Cat Calculator will help you determine the volume needed. You can't have a successful animal welfare program without offering s/n to owned cats and dogs and community cats. It just won't work. I have been there and done that. Many of us aren't veterinarians and have started s/n initiatives. United Spay Alliance has a lot of ideas and suggestions regarding different delivery systems. a. it is also important that the adoption sources into these areas have sterilized animals. Here is the story about Lowell, MA to show what can happen in a couple of years. 2. Phase 2 is when you get to your s/n baseline. You understand the needs of the community for s/n services- you have those ongoing s/n services happening etc. Then you can add additional supportive services based on funding availability. This could be wellness clinics, pet food pantries, assisting with ... View Discussion

Sorry for the late reply! Here is a photo of just one of the blessing boxes around town. These are used for people and animal food, along with hygiene items ------------------------------ Jodie Hearlson Wellington Humane Society ------------------------------ View Discussion

I love this idea - it would absolutely make a dent! Rescues pull pets faster when they were fixed, and heartworm negative and leash trained, and vaxed, etc. All these would get the pipeline moving faster. Access to affordable resources and open information about those resources would be huge! Does Maddies or others have a db of affordable resources for rescues and shelters? It would be great if there was also a central place where donors could support making resources affordable - i guess that grants....but not a lot of rescues have the gumption to do grant work.... In Memphis we have an option for spay/neuter subsidized, but the wait time is quite long....maybe we can get robots to run 24*7 doing spay/neuter soon! ------------------------------ Kip Meierhofer Owner Wag On Home TN ------------------------------ View Discussion

Devon, THANK YOU FOR THIS...I know what it feels like when you say "jaded", but from my perspective, nothing you are saying is jaded. It's REALITY-plain and simple. We are thinking of converting our rescue to all foster and use our facility for other supportive and preventative things (not just housing dogs). I want to re-build our foster program with the fosters we have now in order to grow it. ALL of your points are items that need to be discussed up front and then prepared for when they completely ignore everything you just said. If I develop anything of use thats not already out there for foster management and prep, I'll post on this form. Cheri Jenkins-Vice President Williston Animal Group Williston, Florida ------------------------------ Cheri Jenkins board member Williston Animal Group FL ------------------------------ View Discussion

I am also interested in some of the ae types of info you are seeking. We are a private rescue with fosters and a physical facility. We are considering possibly becoming totally foster based and using the facility for a multitude of other purposes that support the rescue, adopters, fosters and the community. Cheri Jenkins-Vice President Williston Animal Group Williston, Florida ------------------------------ Cheri Jenkins board member Williston Animal Group FL ------------------------------ View Discussion

This is not a simple, yes or no question. And we are just in the early exploration of this very question. I am in Northern New Mexico where we have a significant poor population. But we also have two free spay neuter clinics, one in Taos and one in Española. The clinic in Espanola has just opened up to statewide free Spay neuter, vaccinations, and micro chipping. it will be sometime before we really see a reduction in numbers despite the fact that they're doing thousands of surgeries. We also have an organization called "safe pet partners" who are working to keep animals with their families by offering training, fencing, and guidance. The Taos shelter offers free food as do a couple of nonprofits. I do think one of our greatest obstacles is information and education. There are so many people who do not utilize social media where the information is shared. I feel phone calls constantly, where people don't know that their puppies and kittens need four sets of vaccinations. They only find out when their pet becomes gravely ill. That's not a great time to learn about it. And for me, that raises a question about people who don't have a curiosity for lack of another description. The whole idea that someone takes in a puppy or kitten for the very first time, often out of the Walmart parking lot, and doesn't think to find out what they need to do for that puppy or kitten to keep it healthy. To keep it from having puppies or kittens. I don't think we can solve that easily. Our former executive ... View Discussion

Would a Focus on Access to Care and Resources End the Shelter Crisis? Would expanding access to care put a dent in the human‑ignorance and poverty factors that contribute to the shelter crisis? Let's open a respectful discussion. We won't all agree, and that's okay - please keep comments kind and constructive. Peaceful Coexistence believes that one major contributing factor is access . Access to information. Access to veterinary care. Access to food and supplies. Access looks different for every family, and it's often shaped by geography, income, and community norms. Our organization operates in rural Northeastern Colorado, where options are limited. Many areas have no trainers at all , and what people know about their pets often comes from outdated generational knowledge - practices that don't fit today's society and, in many cases, never served the animals well. We have more ranch vets than pet vets, and the difference matters. Peaceful Coexistence focuses on keeping pets out of the shelter system by providing access to training, emergency pet food, care resources, and preventative veterinary support. So here's the question: What if more organizations branched into prevention - keeping pets with their original families by providing resources before a crisis hits? It won't fix everything, and it won't solve situations rooted in willful cruelty. But it could change outcomes for the families who simply didn't know what they needed until ... View Discussion

I'm a jaded staffer, so these may feel jarring but are pretty consistent across orgs I've been with. These are things that differentiate the magical fosters who "get it" from the fosters who we sometimes avoid picking up the phone when they call ;) Be willing to foster what needs you, and learn how to foster what needs you, don't just offer to foster the easiest animals. This is the biggest one, without question. We have a roster of 700 people who want to foster healthy, cute, fluffy, social kittens, 2 at a time and no more. We need that .0001% of the time. If you want to truly make a difference, as opposed to having a cute hobby for yourself, foster moms with nursing babies; kittens and puppies who are sick, INCLUDING zoonotic stuff; foster bottle babies; FOSTER ADULTS; foster pets who need some slightly advanced care, like injections or fluids; foster shy ones who need socialization. It may feel overwhelming at first, but you can learn, and that's where you will make the biggest difference. And do not ever, ever ask to foster a specific color or breed of animal unless you want to be gossiped about ;) Keep your pets separate from foster animals, and keep them up to date on vaccines. Shelters have no idea what these animals have been exposed to, and we cannot control symptoms breaking out after they go into your home. Have a separate room; do not let them out of the room, no matter how much you want to; wash your hands well after handling your fosters. Fostering has inherent ... View Discussion

I think trust should be one of the most important metrics in animal welfare because without it, many of the other numbers become harder to improve. If people don't trust an organization, they may not call for help, bring their pets in for services, report lost pets, or ask for resources before surrendering an animal. That lack of trust can actually increase shelter intake and decrease positive outcomes. If trust became a key performance indicator, I think organizations would spend more time listening to their communities instead of just talking to them. We would measure things like whether people felt respected, whether they would return for services, whether they would recommend us to a friend, and whether they believed we treated every person with dignity regardless of their income, race, or background. To me, trust isn't a "soft" metric-it's a leading indicator of long-term success. When communities trust us, they are more likely to seek help early, reunite with lost pets, participate in preventive care, volunteer, donate, and become partners in our mission. The best animal welfare outcomes happen when people see us as a resource instead of a place of last resort. That's the kind of success worth measuring. #CommunityPartnerships* #Diversity,Equity,InclusionandJustice #PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration) ------------------------------ K. D. Thompson Executive Director The FIDO Foundation NE ------------------------------ View Discussion

Hello, I'm looking for Board members for my NonProfit project, LEESHED - Connection to Care. I have a compelling solution to the access to care problem and I'd like to launch it as a pilot program with partners starting in CA and then look at how to expand nationally. I believe my program can bridge the gap for shelters by using asynchronous telemedicine and computer vision data analytics together on one protocol driven collaborative platform. It's already built and I have currently in talks with a couple potential partner shelters, all i am lacking is the proper Board members to legally form the non profit. Thank You! #AccesstoCare ------------------------------ vanessa Schott founder ceo Leeshed.org CA ------------------------------ View Discussion

Like Mishelle mentioned, explaining why certain rules and protocols are in place really makes all the difference for us. I've found that when I take the time to explain how diseases spread (and share real examples of illnesses that have come into the shelter, and how they either did or didn't spread depending on how the animals were handled and how cleaning protocols were followed) volunteers are much more careful about following those procedures. The same goes for everyday tasks. When I explain why it's so important to clean out the drains, because they've clogged and flooded in the past, and even share that last year we arrived to find all the dogs standing ankle-deep in water, people are much more diligent about keeping the drains clear. ------------------------------ Anastasia Peterson Volunteer Coordinator Hayward Animal Services CA ------------------------------ View Discussion

Great question to ask! I fostered kittens for several years and in addition to support from shelter staff, really appreciated resources available from Kitten Lady (Hannah Shaw) at kittenlady.org I regularly share her resources with fosters, including a paper booklet which is also available to download form her site. ------------------------------ Tasha Haug Homeward Animal Shelter ------------------------------ View Discussion

Hi everyone! Does anyone using Chameleon have custom kennel cards or adoption portfolios that are designed for the public? Our default kennel cards include intake information along with every medical and behavior note, which can be overwhelming and difficult for potential adopters to interpret. We're looking for a more adopter-friendly way to present information about our animals. If your shelter has created custom kennel cards, portfolios, or other public-facing materials, we'd love to see what you're using. We'd really appreciate it if you'd be willing to share examples or ideas. Thanks in advance from Hayward Animal Services! #DataandTechnology ------------------------------ Anastasia Peterson Volunteer Coordinator Hayward Animal Services CA ------------------------------ View Discussion

Hi everyone, Information on submitting a poster or abstract for Georgia's upcoming One Health Symposium. You can also access the information in a more readable format by clicking here . Thanks! Call for Student Poster Abstract Submissions 2nd Georgia One Health Symposium September 24-26, 2026 Advancing Health Through Transdisciplinary Collaboration The 2nd Georgia One Health Symposium invites students and early career professionals to submit poster abstracts. The symposium provides a forum for sharing innovative research, evidence-based practice, educational initiatives, community engagement efforts, and policy solutions that advance the One Health approach by recognizing the interconnected health of people, animals, plants, and the environment. Submission Topics Submissions are encouraged in, but are not limited to, the following areas: Linkages across Human Health, Animal Health, Environmental Health, and Plant Health Infectious Diseases Antimicrobial Resistance Food Safety and Food Security Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Response Mental Health and Well-being through a One Health lens Health Equity and Social Determinants of Health Wildlife and Ecosystem Health Agriculture and Natural Resources One Health Education Emerging and Innovative One Health Research Interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary projects that demonstrate collaboration ... View Discussion

Good morning and thank you, Megan. This approach makes sense and I appreciate that staff has both uniform shirts and shelter shirts to wear. This would be more cost-effective for us since we have such a limited budget. I also like that the shirts must be returned with the cost deducted from the final paycheck if they are not. The returned shirts would be helpful to reuse as needed. Thank you again and enjoy your weekend! Ann ------------------------------ ann traynor-plowman ------------------------------ View Discussion

Hi all, As a new foster-based rescue working mostly with high-drive and working-breed dogs, one thing I wish every foster knew is that "quiet and boring" at the beginning is productive work. For dogs coming out of shelter stress, surrender, transport, or an unstable situation, the first week is not when we need to learn everything. We need to keep the dog safe, reduce pressure, and gather useful observations. That means slow introductions, no dog parks, no casual meet-and-greets, no testing prey drive, and no assuming a dog is "fine" because they are shut down or exhausted. I also wish fosters knew how much their own calm energy matters. It is natural to want to comfort a new foster dog with constant affection, close proximity, and treats, but too much too soon can create pressure and can accidentally encourage clinginess, resource guarding, or separation anxiety. We try to teach dogs that people are safe and predictable, but also that they can settle independently, wait calmly, and earn access to high-value things through simple structure. I also wish fosters knew that getting attached is not a failure. The goal is not emotional distance; the goal is honest information, good boundaries, and a placement that protects both the dog and the adopter. For working-type dogs especially, a foster's observations can be the difference between "available" and actually ready. We are building this out at Ninja's Woof Haus, so I would love to learn what other organizations give fosters ... View Discussion

I just began fostering dogs. I just had my second foster dog adopted and so far it has been a great experience. I second Diana's comments, in particular having more info on how to introduce them to my own pets. Also, the rescue I volunteer with has "foster coordinators" that you can reach out to if you have any questions, issues, etc. and my coordinator has been a great resource for me as a newer foster parent. In regards to what I would tell new foster parents (or anyone considering it) is do it if you can. Just try it out with a "doggy day out" or a sleepover program if your local rescue has one. Also, only take a dog or cat you are comfortable with. For example, if your dog or child only does well with smaller dogs then only take in smaller dogs. You might have to say "no" every once in a while to a dog that needs a foster home, but if you keep the experience positive for you and your family you will continue to foster and will help more pets in the long run. Also, yes, you will grow attached to your foster pet, but once they leave I have personally found it is a different kind of sadness than if a pet dies, because you know they are living a great life in their new home. And if you are as lucky as I have been, you will adopt them to wonderful families that will keep you involved in their life through pictures and periodic updates. ------------------------------ Deeann Harper Fundraising Coordinator & Dog Foster ------------------------------ View Discussion

In the United States, rabies is mostly found in wild animals like bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes. Rabies can spread to people and pets through the bites and scratches of an infected animal. A person can also be exposed if their pet is unvaccinated for rabies and has contact with a rabid animal. The leading cause of rabies deaths in people in the U.S. is from contact with infected bats. Bat bites can be small and hard to detect so contact your state health department or healthcare provider to assess your risk of rabies if you think you had contact with a bat. Rabies in dogs is still common in many countries around the world. Before you travel internationally, find out if rabies is present in dogs, livestock, or wildlife at your destination. When traveling, keep your distance from wild animals and unfamiliar dogs and cats. Tips to Protect Yourself from Rabies The best way to avoid rabies in the U.S. is to keep your distance from wildlife. Never approach animals who appear to be hurt, sick, or dead, especially if you see animals during the day that are usually active at night (bats, raccoons, etc.). Call animal control to remove stray animals in your neighborhood. Keep pets up to date on rabies vaccines and keep pets away from wild animals as much as possible. People who are bitten or scratched by an animal that may have had rabies should seek medical care right away. If the animal was potentially rabid, your healthcare provider may recommend ... View Discussion

Thank you for this. That moment in San Antonio, the man with his head buried in his cat before deployment, is the whole reason the AWRN exists. Groups like Dogs on Deployment foster pets for service members in exactly that situation, but he almost certainly did not know they existed. The resource was out there. Nobody connected him to it before he reached the shelter door. That gap, between the help that already exists and the family that needs it, is what we are built to close. Most pet surrender begins before the shelter. Your healthcare background is probably why this clicked for you, because the Animal Welfare Resource Network is basically care coordination for animal welfare. Shelters, rescues, vets, trainers, community groups, landlords, and volunteers mostly run as separate silos that do not talk to each other, so families fall through the cracks the same way patients do in a fragmented health system. AWRN links them into one network. A family in crisis reaches our Pet Help Desk before they surrender, and we route them to whoever can actually solve the problem, food, a vet copay, a deployment foster, a pet-friendly apartment. Every partner connects to every other partner, not only through us. On expansion, yes. We started in seven counties in Central Alabama, but the network is built at the organization level, not the county level, so it is designed to travel. We are growing across the South and nationally as partners come on, and you are right that the need down here ... View Discussion

Id be willing to discuss a possibility working with us. It wouldn't be a lot right now but we're a young organization and would welcome someone with some experience. If you want you can email me just remind me your from here Bre@speciallittlewhiskerskittenrescue.com ------------------------------ Bre Hoffman (they/m) Special Little Whiskers Sanctuary Decatur IL SpecialLittleWhiskersKittenRescue.com ------------------------------ View Discussion

How well are social service agencies equipped to support pet families? Join us for The State of Pet-Inclusive Social Service Delivery: A National Snapshot of How Agencies Support Families with Pets on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET . @Claire Schuch , PhD, and @Kaitlyn Andres , MS, MPH, will share findings from a national survey of 209 U.S. social service agencies. The webinar will explore current pet-inclusive practices, common barriers, opportunities for collaboration, and practical strategies for incorporating pets into service planning through a Whole Family and One Health approach. Register today: https://tiny.utk.edu/PetInclusiveServices ------------------------------ T' Fisher, Director of Operations Center for Pet Family Well-Being ------------------------------ View Discussion

Excellent info. Best of luck with the Symposium. Thanks for sharing the info Janet! ------------------------------ Kathy Duncan Humane Canada Ottawa ON Canada ------------------------------ View Discussion

Our staff all have a handful of our standard staff shirts; but they also have shirts from events and dog walks that we have had that they wear. When a staff member is terminated, I do remind them that they need to return their staff uniform shirts (not the events ones, etc.). Even if they have bleach stains, etc., I do ask for them back so I am asking for them across the board period. If they decide not to, we will deduct the cost of how many shirts they have from their final paycheck. But we are very lucky and have a pretty healthy budget, and shirts are given out at times on the "free table" and given here and there as needed so I could not tell you how many shirts each staff member have! ------------------------------ Megan Cutter Director of People and Culture SPCA Cincinnati ------------------------------ View Discussion