Improve the welfare of all animals in your care through a comprehensive program for implementing a multi-pronged enrichment program across species.

 

This program is for individuals and does not include an in-person component. Free for shelter and rescue staff and volunteers; limited space available and application required.

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Watch this video to learn more about the program prior to submitting an application:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The CORE On-line program is restricted to 75 seats per cohort for individuals who meet the following criteria. Individuals must:

 

• Be employed by or volunteer at a shelter or rescue.

• ​Provide direct care to animals.

• Dedicate two hours per week to complete the program in the allotted time frame; staff may need permission and support from supervisors to meet this criterion.

• Have access to more than one species.

• Have regular access to dogs in a shelter or rescue (not only one’s own dog).

• Have access to high-speed internet.

• Have access to a video camera or a phone with video capabilities.

• Be able to listen, read, and write in English at a 6th grade level.

• Acknowledge the level of difficulty of the program and have a plan for completion within the allotted 20-week time frame.

• Demonstrate a learning mindset and be able and willing to receive constructive and kind feedback.

• Able to incorporate feedback from the SPA grading team, adjust based on that feedback, and re-submit assignments.

• Demonstrate commitment to the use of positive reinforcement and ethical practices in the shelter environment (that is, avoiding flooding, extinction, punishment, and aversive tools).

 

Applicants for the CORE on-line program must respond to a survey detailing how they meet the above program criteria. Applications will not be accepted in any other form.

 

Shelter and rescue organizations will be limited to 10 individuals per cohort. Priority will be given to individuals from the same organization who will be taking the program together, as that practice can increase completion. If multiple people from the same organization apply, each must submit their own application.

 

Individuals who do not complete the program in the time allotted will be considered for 15 spaces in a second cohort. Those individuals who wish to be considered to roll-over to a second cohort must submit a short essay with a realistic plan for completion via the standard application process.

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CCPDT: 30 CEUs | IAABC: 36 CEUs