Animal Welfare Professionals

Greetings Animal-Wellbeing Unicorns!

One thing I always hear is that the only constant in life is change. With change comes uncertainty, excitement, and sometimes fear. Often, when talking with shelter staff, rescue workers, and other stakeholders, they mention that one of the most challenging parts of their work is managing people through change.

This is where we want to hear from you: What has been the greatest change you've navigated? What did you learn?

Our intention is to feature 3-4 stories at our upcoming June 24th Community Conversation call.

I look forward to hearing your stories and learning from the collective wisdom of this community.

All my best,

José Ocaño

Jose@hatching.me

The first big change I navigated was working for a large municipal shelter. This  organization that had historically been heels in the ground and navigating change was known to be...erm... difficult. At the time, behavior departments were new and few. Cue in a new department head that would focus specifically on behavior and enrichment programs and hire a team to handle it at each location.. They brought in "Dogs Playing for Life" - a program unheard of at the time. I remember being excited to interview, hoping that I'd be selected as a Behavior Team member. Once I got the position - I knew it'd be smooth sailing. But.. I was wrong.

Some staff members and leadership open spoke poorly of the program to those working within it. They'd openly talk about how the dogs would hurt themselves or others, with a focus on certain breeds. The shelter at the time wouldn't even house blocky headed dogs together for "safety". Leadership refused to assign the support staff needed for it to be successful per the agreement, in lieu of other task they deemed more important;  They openly asked me "what qualifications do you have to even make these decisions?", as if I hadn't applied and interviewed for the position fairly with a background in dog training. I felt like we'd never have a successful program. But eventually we did.

I remember relying heavily on those that did support me, including my manager to find wins every day in the work we did. Dogs that were successfully matched in playgroup, overcoming my own doubts during dog introductions, helping my coworkers grow through theirs, watching dogs go home with notes that I had written. I'd take video and photos of the work we did and share it as much as I could. There were still nay-sayers, but I made sure that I spoke louder of the success and impact of the program than they ever could. This culture shift adjustment was the foundation for how I approach difficulties now.

I learned to speak up for myself, and for others to proper channels even if they didn't listen. I learned to celebrate my wins and the wins of those around me, because our support fueled our desire to keep doing the good work. I learned do focus on doing good things and telling people about it. 

Greetings Animal-Wellbeing Unicorns!

One thing I always hear is that the only constant in life is change. With change comes uncertainty, excitement, and sometimes fear. Often, when talking with shelter staff, rescue workers, and other stakeholders, they mention that one of the most challenging parts of their work is managing people through change.

This is where we want to hear from you: What has been the greatest change you've navigated? What did you learn?

Our intention is to feature 3-4 stories at our upcoming June 24th Community Conversation call.

I look forward to hearing your stories and learning from the collective wisdom of this community.

All my best,

José Ocaño

Jose@hatching.me

Greetings Animal-Wellbeing Unicorns!

One thing I always hear is that the only constant in life is change. With change comes uncertainty, excitement, and sometimes fear. Often, when talking with shelter staff, rescue workers, and other stakeholders, they mention that one of the most challenging parts of their work is managing people through change.

This is where we want to hear from you: What has been the greatest change you've navigated? What did you learn?

Our intention is to feature 3-4 stories at our upcoming June 24th Community Conversation call.

I look forward to hearing your stories and learning from the collective wisdom of this community.

All my best,

José Ocaño

Jose@hatching.me

#OrganizationalManagement

------------------------------
José Ocaño
Founder and CEO
Hatching
CA
------------------------------

Well, after over 18 years working for the same nonprofit animal shelter here in the Cali East Bay, I've had to "retire" due to osteoarthritis and chronic lower back problems.  Aging and wear and tear from almost two decades at an extremely rewarding but physically, mentally, and emotionally taxing position, which evolved from a Kennel Attendant to an Animal Care Associate. 

     Yes, in all of my 18 years in animal sheltering, I have seen many, many changes. Kennels went from metal bars and concrete with a long trench at the back of the rows of intake cages with nothing more than a big ol' fan for ventilation to state of the art OSHA standard wards and proper environmentally sound individualized ventilation and irrigation/drainage systems and sound proofing. Cat enclosures went from open rooms that were too close to dogs for comfort with metal cages that provided no hiding space away from humans or their litter boxes to sound proof condos with shelf space, hiding areas, and their own space both in the Adoption area and intake/holding/isolation, blissfully apart from dogs. We went from animal care staff basically winging animal behavior protocol to a specialized behavior department.  Volunteers used to have to essentially shadow staff in order to learn until the Volunteer department was able to develop a well structured training program which I had the privilege to help structure at one point, as far as protocol was concerned. This helped me immensely to come out of my extremely introverted shell, develop leadership skills as well as some very meaningful friendships with a diverse group of people through the years.  Even during the pandemic, when the world was sheltering in place, the organization adapted, keeping staff connected, paid, insured, educated and involved, for which I was truly thankful. I have learned so much from the privilege of working for that shelter from day to day duties to webinars and seminars, meaningful interactions between both the two-legged and four-legged. I have seen animal sheltering become a legitimate, well respected profession, as it has always deserved to be. 

   Although I have been "retired" from my position at this particular shelter, I am forever grateful for the experience and, in spite of my (slowly) aging body, I am still dedicated to the animal sheltering/animal welfare field. This is not the sort of career that one can just toss aside for another. I realize this and would gladly welcome the opportunity to remain relevant and involved.  That being said, if anyone knows of any way that I can still be of service, I would appreciate it...as I appreciate you all for what you do.  Thanks.,

Greetings Animal-Wellbeing Unicorns!

One thing I always hear is that the only constant in life is change. With change comes uncertainty, excitement, and sometimes fear. Often, when talking with shelter staff, rescue workers, and other stakeholders, they mention that one of the most challenging parts of their work is managing people through change.

This is where we want to hear from you: What has been the greatest change you've navigated? What did you learn?

Our intention is to feature 3-4 stories at our upcoming June 24th Community Conversation call.

I look forward to hearing your stories and learning from the collective wisdom of this community.

All my best,

José Ocaño

Jose@hatching.me

#OrganizationalManagement

------------------------------
José Ocaño
Founder and CEO
Hatching
CA
------------------------------

Hi Debbie,

Congratulations on your "retirement"! Your insights into the evolution of animal shelters inspire hope that we will continue to work toward a more compassionate world of sheltering. As we learn more about dogs' behaviors through science, I am optimistic that we will prioritize their welfare and well-being. We deeply appreciate your 18 years of dedicated service, your enthusiasm, your tenacity, and your commitment to understanding both two-legged and four-legged beings. The next chapter awaits, and we are excited for what's to come.

------------------------------
Julielani Chang
The Life of Kai: Compassion Connections Inc.
Davis CA

Original Message:
Sent: 06-20-2024 01:09 PM
From: Debbie (Hogan) Johnson
Subject: Share Your Stories: Navigating Change in Animal Welfare

Well, after over 18 years working for the same nonprofit animal shelter here in the Cali East Bay, I've had to "retire" due to osteoarthritis and chronic lower back problems.  Aging and wear and tear from almost two decades at an extremely rewarding but physically, mentally, and emotionally taxing position, which evolved from a Kennel Attendant to an Animal Care Associate. 

     Yes, in all of my 18 years in animal sheltering, I have seen many, many changes. Kennels went from metal bars and concrete with a long trench at the back of the rows of intake cages with nothing more than a big ol' fan for ventilation to state of the art OSHA standard wards and proper environmentally sound individualized ventilation and irrigation/drainage systems and sound proofing. Cat enclosures went from open rooms that were too close to dogs for comfort with metal cages that provided no hiding space away from humans or their litter boxes to sound proof condos with shelf space, hiding areas, and their own space both in the Adoption area and intake/holding/isolation, blissfully apart from dogs. We went from animal care staff basically winging animal behavior protocol to a specialized behavior department.  Volunteers used to have to essentially shadow staff in order to learn until the Volunteer department was able to develop a well structured training program which I had the privilege to help structure at one point, as far as protocol was concerned. This helped me immensely to come out of my extremely introverted shell, develop leadership skills as well as some very meaningful friendships with a diverse group of people through the years.  Even during the pandemic, when the world was sheltering in place, the organization adapted, keeping staff connected, paid, insured, educated and involved, for which I was truly thankful. I have learned so much from the privilege of working for that shelter from day to day duties to webinars and seminars, meaningful interactions between both the two-legged and four-legged. I have seen animal sheltering become a legitimate, well respected profession, as it has always deserved to be. 

   Although I have been "retired" from my position at this particular shelter, I am forever grateful for the experience and, in spite of my (slowly) aging body, I am still dedicated to the animal sheltering/animal welfare field. This is not the sort of career that one can just toss aside for another. I realize this and would gladly welcome the opportunity to remain relevant and involved.  That being said, if anyone knows of any way that I can still be of service, I would appreciate it...as I appreciate you all for what you do.  Thanks.,

------------------------------
Debbie (Hogan) Johnson
Shelter or rescue staff
East Bay SPCA Oakland
Oakland

Original Message:
Sent: 06-04-2024 11:03 AM
From: José Ocaño (he/him/el)
Subject: Share Your Stories: Navigating Change in Animal Welfare

Greetings Animal-Wellbeing Unicorns!

One thing I always hear is that the only constant in life is change. With change comes uncertainty, excitement, and sometimes fear. Often, when talking with shelter staff, rescue workers, and other stakeholders, they mention that one of the most challenging parts of their work is managing people through change.

This is where we want to hear from you: What has been the greatest change you've navigated? What did you learn?

Our intention is to feature 3-4 stories at our upcoming June 24th Community Conversation call.

I look forward to hearing your stories and learning from the collective wisdom of this community.

All my best,

José Ocaño

Jose@hatching.me

#OrganizationalManagement

------------------------------
José Ocaño
Founder and CEO
Hatching
CA
------------------------------

Well, after over 18 years working for the same nonprofit animal shelter here in the Cali East Bay, I've had to "retire" due to osteoarthritis and chronic lower back problems.  Aging and wear and tear from almost two decades at an extremely rewarding but physically, mentally, and emotionally taxing position, which evolved from a Kennel Attendant to an Animal Care Associate. 

     Yes, in all of my 18 years in animal sheltering, I have seen many, many changes. Kennels went from metal bars and concrete with a long trench at the back of the rows of intake cages with nothing more than a big ol' fan for ventilation to state of the art OSHA standard wards and proper environmentally sound individualized ventilation and irrigation/drainage systems and sound proofing. Cat enclosures went from open rooms that were too close to dogs for comfort with metal cages that provided no hiding space away from humans or their litter boxes to sound proof condos with shelf space, hiding areas, and their own space both in the Adoption area and intake/holding/isolation, blissfully apart from dogs. We went from animal care staff basically winging animal behavior protocol to a specialized behavior department.  Volunteers used to have to essentially shadow staff in order to learn until the Volunteer department was able to develop a well structured training program which I had the privilege to help structure at one point, as far as protocol was concerned. This helped me immensely to come out of my extremely introverted shell, develop leadership skills as well as some very meaningful friendships with a diverse group of people through the years.  Even during the pandemic, when the world was sheltering in place, the organization adapted, keeping staff connected, paid, insured, educated and involved, for which I was truly thankful. I have learned so much from the privilege of working for that shelter from day to day duties to webinars and seminars, meaningful interactions between both the two-legged and four-legged. I have seen animal sheltering become a legitimate, well respected profession, as it has always deserved to be. 

   Although I have been "retired" from my position at this particular shelter, I am forever grateful for the experience and, in spite of my (slowly) aging body, I am still dedicated to the animal sheltering/animal welfare field. This is not the sort of career that one can just toss aside for another. I realize this and would gladly welcome the opportunity to remain relevant and involved.  That being said, if anyone knows of any way that I can still be of service, I would appreciate it...as I appreciate you all for what you do.  Thanks.,

------------------------------
Debbie (Hogan) Johnson
Shelter or rescue staff
East Bay SPCA Oakland
Oakland

Original Message:
Sent: 06-04-2024 11:03 AM
From: José Ocaño (he/him/el)
Subject: Share Your Stories: Navigating Change in Animal Welfare

Greetings Animal-Wellbeing Unicorns!

One thing I always hear is that the only constant in life is change. With change comes uncertainty, excitement, and sometimes fear. Often, when talking with shelter staff, rescue workers, and other stakeholders, they mention that one of the most challenging parts of their work is managing people through change.

This is where we want to hear from you: What has been the greatest change you've navigated? What did you learn?

Our intention is to feature 3-4 stories at our upcoming June 24th Community Conversation call.

I look forward to hearing your stories and learning from the collective wisdom of this community.

All my best,

José Ocaño

Jose@hatching.me

#OrganizationalManagement

------------------------------
José Ocaño
Founder and CEO
Hatching
CA
------------------------------

Debbie - what a courageous story. I support CCAS and CCHS as dog walker and counselor. Would you be willing to advise on "rally for rescues" to advance kennel volunteer tools like better intake photos, walker logs and framing the ideal playbook for dog adoption from shelters? 

Well, after over 18 years working for the same nonprofit animal shelter here in the Cali East Bay, I've had to "retire" due to osteoarthritis and chronic lower back problems.  Aging and wear and tear from almost two decades at an extremely rewarding but physically, mentally, and emotionally taxing position, which evolved from a Kennel Attendant to an Animal Care Associate. 

     Yes, in all of my 18 years in animal sheltering, I have seen many, many changes. Kennels went from metal bars and concrete with a long trench at the back of the rows of intake cages with nothing more than a big ol' fan for ventilation to state of the art OSHA standard wards and proper environmentally sound individualized ventilation and irrigation/drainage systems and sound proofing. Cat enclosures went from open rooms that were too close to dogs for comfort with metal cages that provided no hiding space away from humans or their litter boxes to sound proof condos with shelf space, hiding areas, and their own space both in the Adoption area and intake/holding/isolation, blissfully apart from dogs. We went from animal care staff basically winging animal behavior protocol to a specialized behavior department.  Volunteers used to have to essentially shadow staff in order to learn until the Volunteer department was able to develop a well structured training program which I had the privilege to help structure at one point, as far as protocol was concerned. This helped me immensely to come out of my extremely introverted shell, develop leadership skills as well as some very meaningful friendships with a diverse group of people through the years.  Even during the pandemic, when the world was sheltering in place, the organization adapted, keeping staff connected, paid, insured, educated and involved, for which I was truly thankful. I have learned so much from the privilege of working for that shelter from day to day duties to webinars and seminars, meaningful interactions between both the two-legged and four-legged. I have seen animal sheltering become a legitimate, well respected profession, as it has always deserved to be. 

   Although I have been "retired" from my position at this particular shelter, I am forever grateful for the experience and, in spite of my (slowly) aging body, I am still dedicated to the animal sheltering/animal welfare field. This is not the sort of career that one can just toss aside for another. I realize this and would gladly welcome the opportunity to remain relevant and involved.  That being said, if anyone knows of any way that I can still be of service, I would appreciate it...as I appreciate you all for what you do.  Thanks.,

Greetings Animal-Wellbeing Unicorns!

One thing I always hear is that the only constant in life is change. With change comes uncertainty, excitement, and sometimes fear. Often, when talking with shelter staff, rescue workers, and other stakeholders, they mention that one of the most challenging parts of their work is managing people through change.

This is where we want to hear from you: What has been the greatest change you've navigated? What did you learn?

Our intention is to feature 3-4 stories at our upcoming June 24th Community Conversation call.

I look forward to hearing your stories and learning from the collective wisdom of this community.

All my best,

José Ocaño

Jose@hatching.me

#OrganizationalManagement

------------------------------
José Ocaño
Founder and CEO
Hatching
CA
------------------------------

Greetings Animal-Wellbeing Unicorns!

One thing I always hear is that the only constant in life is change. With change comes uncertainty, excitement, and sometimes fear. Often, when talking with shelter staff, rescue workers, and other stakeholders, they mention that one of the most challenging parts of their work is managing people through change.

This is where we want to hear from you: What has been the greatest change you've navigated? What did you learn?

Our intention is to feature 3-4 stories at our upcoming June 24th Community Conversation call.

I look forward to hearing your stories and learning from the collective wisdom of this community.

All my best,

José Ocaño

Jose@hatching.me

#OrganizationalManagement

------------------------------
José Ocaño
Founder and CEO
Hatching
CA
------------------------------

The biggest change over the last 10  plus years has been going from the model "We can't save them all"  to elevated thinking of "Save Them All" in geographical areas where strays are  not as overwhelming (notheast in particular) and institutions with employees and volunteers who have evolved and kept up with  all the research and successful models out there used by progressive shelters throughout the country.   When we work from that mindset, we no  longer can justify excuses/reasons for killing an animal for behavior without intervention be it a stray or owner surrender. This intervention also saves countless other animals as each one of these animals(usually dogs) teach us so much to help the next dog more easily.   We use to kill for food aggression, jumpy/mouthy behavior, even dogs that growl.  When we stopped killing these dogs and learned to ask what they need  and provided that to them, it allowed a whole population of future jumpy/mouthy, food aggressive, growly dogs to be saved b/c we now have protocols in place to teach these dogs acceptable behavior. We use to do dog evaluations using fake hands and push the dogs to 'make sure'  they wouldn't react.  Now we use evaluations to assess what the dog needs not rather we should kill him or not.

Next to elevate will likely be shelter statistics where we keep track  of not only dogs euthanized because  of behavior but a breakdown of dogs euthanized for behavior with no intervention and dogs euthanized for behavior after intervention.    Of course there are dogs that need to be euthanized with no intervention based on severity of an incident/s or circumstance, but keeping statistics nationwide would open the door even wider to giving us a picture of how far we have come or need to go. 

Greetings Animal-Wellbeing Unicorns!

One thing I always hear is that the only constant in life is change. With change comes uncertainty, excitement, and sometimes fear. Often, when talking with shelter staff, rescue workers, and other stakeholders, they mention that one of the most challenging parts of their work is managing people through change.

This is where we want to hear from you: What has been the greatest change you've navigated? What did you learn?

Our intention is to feature 3-4 stories at our upcoming June 24th Community Conversation call.

I look forward to hearing your stories and learning from the collective wisdom of this community.

All my best,

José Ocaño

Jose@hatching.me

#OrganizationalManagement

------------------------------
José Ocaño
Founder and CEO
Hatching
CA
------------------------------

The biggest change over the last 10  plus years has been going from the model "We can't save them all"  to elevated thinking of "Save Them All" in geographical areas where strays are  not as overwhelming (notheast in particular) and institutions with employees and volunteers who have evolved and kept up with  all the research and successful models out there used by progressive shelters throughout the country.   When we work from that mindset, we no  longer can justify excuses/reasons for killing an animal for behavior without intervention be it a stray or owner surrender. This intervention also saves countless other animals as each one of these animals(usually dogs) teach us so much to help the next dog more easily.   We use to kill for food aggression, jumpy/mouthy behavior, even dogs that growl.  When we stopped killing these dogs and learned to ask what they need  and provided that to them, it allowed a whole population of future jumpy/mouthy, food aggressive, growly dogs to be saved b/c we now have protocols in place to teach these dogs acceptable behavior. We use to do dog evaluations using fake hands and push the dogs to 'make sure'  they wouldn't react.  Now we use evaluations to assess what the dog needs not rather we should kill him or not.

Next to elevate will likely be shelter statistics where we keep track  of not only dogs euthanized because  of behavior but a breakdown of dogs euthanized for behavior with no intervention and dogs euthanized for behavior after intervention.    Of course there are dogs that need to be euthanized with no intervention based on severity of an incident/s or circumstance, but keeping statistics nationwide would open the door even wider to giving us a picture of how far we have come or need to go. 

------------------------------
Mary Lou Maraganis
President
Animal Rescue Konnection
Gloucester MA

Original Message:
Sent: 06-04-2024 11:03 AM
From: José Ocaño (he/him/el)
Subject: Share Your Stories: Navigating Change in Animal Welfare

Greetings Animal-Wellbeing Unicorns!

One thing I always hear is that the only constant in life is change. With change comes uncertainty, excitement, and sometimes fear. Often, when talking with shelter staff, rescue workers, and other stakeholders, they mention that one of the most challenging parts of their work is managing people through change.

This is where we want to hear from you: What has been the greatest change you've navigated? What did you learn?

Our intention is to feature 3-4 stories at our upcoming June 24th Community Conversation call.

I look forward to hearing your stories and learning from the collective wisdom of this community.

All my best,

José Ocaño

Jose@hatching.me

#OrganizationalManagement

------------------------------
José Ocaño
Founder and CEO
Hatching
CA
------------------------------

I agree. Animal sheltering has come so far as a profession. In fact, it's come a long way to be regarded and respected as a profession, period. The shelter that I worked for, itself, progressed so substantially as an organization. Back when I started in 2005, they didn't even have a behavior department and consequently fewer resources to correct the troubling behaviors that once, as you say, more often than not resulted in euthanasia. I was fortunate enough to see that changed for the better with a dedicated behavior department, more behavior education, many more resources and partnerships, and as a result, much more positive outcomes for animals. I myself remain educated, dedicated, and hopeful for the future of this vital, rewarding, progressive field. 

------------------------------
Debbie (Hogan) Johnson
[Former Animal Care Associate]
Newark, Ca

Original Message:
Sent: 06-22-2024 05:02 AM
From: Mary Lou Maraganis
Subject: Share Your Stories: Navigating Change in Animal Welfare

The biggest change over the last 10  plus years has been going from the model "We can't save them all"  to elevated thinking of "Save Them All" in geographical areas where strays are  not as overwhelming (notheast in particular) and institutions with employees and volunteers who have evolved and kept up with  all the research and successful models out there used by progressive shelters throughout the country.   When we work from that mindset, we no  longer can justify excuses/reasons for killing an animal for behavior without intervention be it a stray or owner surrender. This intervention also saves countless other animals as each one of these animals(usually dogs) teach us so much to help the next dog more easily.   We use to kill for food aggression, jumpy/mouthy behavior, even dogs that growl.  When we stopped killing these dogs and learned to ask what they need  and provided that to them, it allowed a whole population of future jumpy/mouthy, food aggressive, growly dogs to be saved b/c we now have protocols in place to teach these dogs acceptable behavior. We use to do dog evaluations using fake hands and push the dogs to 'make sure'  they wouldn't react.  Now we use evaluations to assess what the dog needs not rather we should kill him or not.

Next to elevate will likely be shelter statistics where we keep track  of not only dogs euthanized because  of behavior but a breakdown of dogs euthanized for behavior with no intervention and dogs euthanized for behavior after intervention.    Of course there are dogs that need to be euthanized with no intervention based on severity of an incident/s or circumstance, but keeping statistics nationwide would open the door even wider to giving us a picture of how far we have come or need to go. 

------------------------------
Mary Lou Maraganis
President
Animal Rescue Konnection
Gloucester MA

Original Message:
Sent: 06-04-2024 11:03 AM
From: José Ocaño (he/him/el)
Subject: Share Your Stories: Navigating Change in Animal Welfare

Greetings Animal-Wellbeing Unicorns!

One thing I always hear is that the only constant in life is change. With change comes uncertainty, excitement, and sometimes fear. Often, when talking with shelter staff, rescue workers, and other stakeholders, they mention that one of the most challenging parts of their work is managing people through change.

This is where we want to hear from you: What has been the greatest change you've navigated? What did you learn?

Our intention is to feature 3-4 stories at our upcoming June 24th Community Conversation call.

I look forward to hearing your stories and learning from the collective wisdom of this community.

All my best,

José Ocaño

Jose@hatching.me

#OrganizationalManagement

------------------------------
José Ocaño
Founder and CEO
Hatching
CA
------------------------------

Debbie,

I remember going to the Humane Academy and explicitly being told that what we do is not a profession, and I always found that to be a hard pill to swallow. 

I agree. Animal sheltering has come so far as a profession. In fact, it's come a long way to be regarded and respected as a profession, period. The shelter that I worked for, itself, progressed so substantially as an organization. Back when I started in 2005, they didn't even have a behavior department and consequently fewer resources to correct the troubling behaviors that once, as you say, more often than not resulted in euthanasia. I was fortunate enough to see that changed for the better with a dedicated behavior department, more behavior education, many more resources and partnerships, and as a result, much more positive outcomes for animals. I myself remain educated, dedicated, and hopeful for the future of this vital, rewarding, progressive field. 

------------------------------
Debbie (Hogan) Johnson
[Former Animal Care Associate]
Newark, Ca

Original Message:
Sent: 06-22-2024 05:02 AM
From: Mary Lou Maraganis
Subject: Share Your Stories: Navigating Change in Animal Welfare

The biggest change over the last 10  plus years has been going from the model "We can't save them all"  to elevated thinking of "Save Them All" in geographical areas where strays are  not as overwhelming (notheast in particular) and institutions with employees and volunteers who have evolved and kept up with  all the research and successful models out there used by progressive shelters throughout the country.   When we work from that mindset, we no  longer can justify excuses/reasons for killing an animal for behavior without intervention be it a stray or owner surrender. This intervention also saves countless other animals as each one of these animals(usually dogs) teach us so much to help the next dog more easily.   We use to kill for food aggression, jumpy/mouthy behavior, even dogs that growl.  When we stopped killing these dogs and learned to ask what they need  and provided that to them, it allowed a whole population of future jumpy/mouthy, food aggressive, growly dogs to be saved b/c we now have protocols in place to teach these dogs acceptable behavior. We use to do dog evaluations using fake hands and push the dogs to 'make sure'  they wouldn't react.  Now we use evaluations to assess what the dog needs not rather we should kill him or not.

Next to elevate will likely be shelter statistics where we keep track  of not only dogs euthanized because  of behavior but a breakdown of dogs euthanized for behavior with no intervention and dogs euthanized for behavior after intervention.    Of course there are dogs that need to be euthanized with no intervention based on severity of an incident/s or circumstance, but keeping statistics nationwide would open the door even wider to giving us a picture of how far we have come or need to go. 

------------------------------
Mary Lou Maraganis
President
Animal Rescue Konnection
Gloucester MA

Original Message:
Sent: 06-04-2024 11:03 AM
From: José Ocaño (he/him/el)
Subject: Share Your Stories: Navigating Change in Animal Welfare

Greetings Animal-Wellbeing Unicorns!

One thing I always hear is that the only constant in life is change. With change comes uncertainty, excitement, and sometimes fear. Often, when talking with shelter staff, rescue workers, and other stakeholders, they mention that one of the most challenging parts of their work is managing people through change.

This is where we want to hear from you: What has been the greatest change you've navigated? What did you learn?

Our intention is to feature 3-4 stories at our upcoming June 24th Community Conversation call.

I look forward to hearing your stories and learning from the collective wisdom of this community.

All my best,

José Ocaño

Jose@hatching.me

#OrganizationalManagement

------------------------------
José Ocaño
Founder and CEO
Hatching
CA
------------------------------

Greetings Animal-Wellbeing Unicorns!

One thing I always hear is that the only constant in life is change. With change comes uncertainty, excitement, and sometimes fear. Often, when talking with shelter staff, rescue workers, and other stakeholders, they mention that one of the most challenging parts of their work is managing people through change.

This is where we want to hear from you: What has been the greatest change you've navigated? What did you learn?

Our intention is to feature 3-4 stories at our upcoming June 24th Community Conversation call.

I look forward to hearing your stories and learning from the collective wisdom of this community.

All my best,

José Ocaño

Jose@hatching.me

#OrganizationalManagement

------------------------------
José Ocaño
Founder and CEO
Hatching
CA
------------------------------