Animal shelter professionals play an essential role in protecting community and public health.  There is increased recognition that collaboration among professionals from multiple disciplines is necessary to protect the health of both human and animal residents of a community. This course enhances the ability of shelter medical professionals to serve as informed and active protectors of human and animal health in their communities.

Marketing and external communications have the power to shape behavior within our community; to drive awareness; and to inform future decisions. No matter the size, budget and mission of the organization, marketing helps establish and maintain connections within the community and across diverse stakeholders and service recipients. By the end of this course students will understand the role that marketing plays in animal sheltering and the methods and strategies they can use as veterinarians and leaders to leverage external communications, impact and inform the community.

The rapid expansion of veterinary outreach programs into international environments has given rise to complex dilemmas on how to shelter and provide adequate veterinary care to animals in need, often with minimal resource investment. Traditionally, the focus of most shelter medicine training has been on the health of animals in brick and mortar shelters.  This course is designed to address the unique challenges shelters face internationally, in addition to providing practical recommendations, protocols, and helpful tips for delivering high quality medical care under challenging circumstances.