Investigation of Perioperative Inadvertent Hypothermia in Cats and Dogs and Effect of Implementing a Thermal Care Bundle

Dr. Galina HayesMarch 1, 2022

This Cornell University study was a prospective observational study conducted at five animal high-quality high-volume spay/neuter (HQHVSN) shelters located in the upstate New York area, to investigate the incidences of perioperative inadvertent hypothermia (PIH) in dogs undergoing spay or neuter and cats undergoing spay surgeries. PIH occurs in cats and dogs when core temperatures fall below 36 degrees Celsius (96 degrees Fahrenheit) in association with anesthesia and surgery (Redondo et al. 2012). This may occur due to radiant, conductive or evaporative heat loss in conjunction with anesthesia related vasodilation and loss of normal mechanisms to regulate body temperature. Several negative secondary effects of PIH in small animals have been identified, including prolonged anesthetic recovery (Rodriguez-Diaz et al. 2020) and prolonged post-operative anorexia (Rodriguez-Diaz et al. 2020). Incidences of PIH in humans, particularly infants, have prompted PIH to be made the subject of quality improvement initiatives, but less so in veterinary care settings.

#HassInAction: LifeLine Animal Project thinks outside of the box to keep person and pup together

September 28, 2021

This post originally ran September 2020. With the animal welfare movement constantly evolving and transitioning to meet the needs of people and their pets, animal shelter and rescue organizations are realizing they may need to think outside of the box to find ways to best serve their communities. One organization in particular, LifeLine Animal Project in Atlanta, GA,…

No challenge was too big for this Pet Foster Stimulus Grant recipient in New Jersey

November 19, 2020

When Covid-19 hit Plainfield Area Humane Society (PAHS) in Plainfield, NJ, their animal shelter population was higher than usual. They had 70 additional dogs and cats on top of their normal population, due to a hoarding case.   Thankfully when they put out the call to their community, they experienced an increase in both foster caregivers and adoptions.…

Supporting Both Ends of the Leash

Geraldine D'Silva, Janet Hoy-Gerlach, Aimee St.Arnaud and Derrick PrioleauSeptember 23, 2020

Learn how a private veterinary practice is partnering with human health care and social workers in unique ways to support people and their pets.

#HassInAction: Dallas Animal Services gets creative to provide additional services to their community

September 3, 2020

Dallas Animal Services (DAS), a Tier 1 pilot shelter in the Human Animal Support Services (HASS) coalition, has recently created a few exciting tools that shows HASS in action. In this guest post, Leah Backo, Public Information Coordinator, shares three HASS examples to spark some inspiration for other animal welfare organizations.  Created a COVID-19 pet…

Million Cat Challenge: Going Home

Dr. Sara Pizano, DVMSeptember 3, 2020

Learn how to take your matchmaking game from the adoption floor to the worldwide web.

Million Cat Challenge: Kitten Care in the Shelter

August 27, 2020

In this webinar, we'll go inside the shelter to find out what's new in the world of kitten care, pathway planning, wellness, and pediatric spay/neuter.

Maddie Talks: Video Examples

January 2017

Million Cat Challenge: Foster Greatness

Dr. Sara Pizano, DVMAugust 20, 2020

If you'd like to recruit, train and onboard volunteers quicker, better, faster, then grab your foster coordinators and a seat in this action-packed webinar now.

Million Cat Challenge: Support for Kittens in the Field

Julie Levy, Kristen Hassen-Auerbach, Heather Kennedy and Nick LippincottAugust 13, 2020

Find out what field officers, volunteers and fosters are doing to give kittens the best chance of survival while streamlining operations and expanding safety nets outside shelter walls.

Million Cat Challenge: Navigating Anesthetic Drug Shortages in Shelters After COVID

Dr. Sheilah Robertson and Dr. Sarah KirkAugust 12, 2020

In this webcast, you'll learn what your organization needs to know to provide spay/neuter and veterinary care in a time of COVID.

Million Cat Challenge: COVID Control Strategies - Maintaining Safety During Re-Opening and Beyond

Linda Jacobson, DVM, Julie Levy, DVM, PhD, Jennifer Murphy and Phil Nichols, RVT, CAWAJune 24, 2020

Re-opening shelters and services brings the risk of COVID-19 resurgence. This webcast will provide a roadmap for reopening that can be customized for shelters and clinics everywhere.

Supporting and Engaging Foster Caregivers During COVID-19

Kelly Duer and Lea WilliamsJune 18, 2020

This 60-minute webcast will teach you how to support your fosters and keep them coming back for more!

Caring from Across Town: Practical Telehealth for Shelters & Clinics

Dr. Michael (Mike) Greenberg, Brenton Minish, Julie Ryan-Johnson, DVM, Aimee St.Arnaud and Beth HarrisonJune 4, 2020

Come learn more about the telehealth landscape and how best to implement this tool in your shelter or clinic.

Ideas for Safely Offering Spay/Neuter and Wellness: Q&A session

Jennifer Bolser, DVM, Natalie Corwin, Melanie deHaan, DVM, Cynthia (Cindy) Karsten, DVM, Cate Lemmond and Aimee St.ArnaudMay 27, 2020

Join this discussion on how can we do spay/neuter in a manner that is safe for staff, clients and animals in this new "normal".

Boots on the Ground: Caring for COVID-19 Exposed Pets in Shelters

Sandra Newbury, DVM, Director of University of Wisconsin Shelter Medicine Program and Associate Professor at University of Wisconsin Shelter Medicine Program and School of Veterinary Medicine - Department of Medical SciencesApril 30, 2020

Join Dr. Sandra Newbury, Director of University of Wisconsin's Shelter Medicine Program, for practical guidance for essential shelter workers caring for pets who have been exposed to COVID-19.

COVID-19 Spay/neuter and Vaccine Clinic Preparedness Guide

Aimee St.Arnaud, Elizabeth Berliner, Jennifer Bolser, Gina Clemmer, Natalie Corwin and Cynthia (Cindy) KarstenApril 29, 2020

Learn how to follow social distancing guidelines while safely performing spay/neuter surgeries.

The Co-Sheltering Collaborative Process Evaluation

Dr. Lisa LunghoferFebruary 29, 2020

This Animals & Society Institute study assessed animal-friendly homeless shelters' current approaches to handling animals accompanied by people experiencing homelessness by documenting challenges, key issues and lessons learned. Using a comparative case study approach, individual interviews were conducted with staff and focus groups with clients with and without animals. The final sample included four organizations, one less than the five originally intended. However, one of the organizations had three separate service sites serving three distinct geographic areas. Staff at all four organizations described an incremental approach to development of policy and practice guidelines, developing protocols as issues arise or as new information became available. While concerns were shared about adequate care of animals and safety to others, the benefits of having animals in the shelters were widely acknowledged.

Imagining the Future of Animal Welfare

Kristen Hassen-Auerbach, Rebecca Guinn and Marc PeraltaFebruary 2020

Hear from some of the most influential voices in animal welfare as they imagine what the future holds for homeless pets.

A Radical Rethinking of the Role of Animal Welfare

February 2020

Inspiring thoughts on what animals deserve from animal welfare advocates, workers and volunteers.

Animal Shelter and Rescue Law and Liability

Ryan Clinton, Attorney, Founder of FixAustin.orgApril 2020

Ryan Clinton teaches the foundations of various animal welfare ordinances and what they mean for your organization.

Statewide Advocacy

Ryan Clinton, Laura Donahue and Katie JarlApril 2020

Learn from expert advocates as they share their success stories for state-wide efforts to transform to No Kill.

Public Safety and Lifesaving ARE Compatible

Marc Peralta, Senior Director, National Mission Advancement, Best Friends Animal Society and Ed Jamison, Director, Dallas Animal ServicesApril 2020

Join Marc Peralta and Edward Jamison to hear about the increases and impact they have seen in public safety, when lifesaving takes priority.

Leading Through Relationships: Friends Who Can Effect Change

Laura Donahue, Tawny Hammond and Katie JarlApril 2020

Learn how to put No Kill on your community's public policy agenda.

50 Ways to Keep Pets Out of the Shelter (or maybe 100)

Michael Greenberg, DVM, Director of Outreach Programs, Maddie's Fund^® and Lisa Ward, Director of Education, Maddie's FundApril 2020

Learn some amazing ways shelters have come up with to serve the people and pets in their communities in ways other than simply taking them into the shelter

Shelter Medicine with a No-Kill Mindset

Alexis Bardzinski, DVM and Jennifer Wilcox, DVMApril 2020

Learn how to spend the least amount of money possible, to spread the meager wealth of medical resources and save more lives.

Our Most Vulnerable Creatures: Disease in Puppies and Kittens

Alexis Bardzinski, Casandra Mensing, Jordana Moerbe and Faith WrightApril 2020

Leave this session with the knowledge necessary to fight disease outbreak, without unnecessary deaths or culling of puppies and kittens.

Veterans as Foster Ambassadors

Heidi Ortmeyer January 13, 2020

In a Baltimore Research and Education Foundation feasibility study in older Veterans with physical limitations and mental health issues, the study found that fostering a companion dog for two months significantly increased the Veterans' daily physical activity and had a positive impact on their quality of life. A sub-study validated the Actigraph accelerometry monitor, the most widely and extensively validated device for measuring physical activity in humans, for use in dogs. In a second sub-study, the interconnection between foster dogs and their older caregivers was examined. Results showed that the caregivers' stress decreased, and heart rate variability (HRV) increased when near their dog (a marker of emotional and physical health). HRV was also related in the caregiver and their dog, suggesting an interconnection.

The Foster Parent-Foster Dog Bond Study: Evaluating the Secure-Base Effect as a Mechanism for Mutual Well-Being

Monique Udell, PhDDecember 31, 2019

This Oregon State University study examined attachment relationships between adoptable dogs and foster volunteers caring for them. Dogs in foster care showed similar patterns of attachment to their caretakers when compared with pet dogs in prior studies, which was not the case for dogs living in the shelter. Furthermore, the study examined attachment styles in relation to cognitive, behavioral and survey measures. Foster dogs with secure attachments displayed higher levels of persistence and performance on cognitive tasks compared to foster dogs with insecure attachments. The survey given to foster and shelter volunteers found that securely attached dogs were rated as less neurotic than insecurely attached dogs for both foster and shelter groups.

Pop-Up Cat Community Program

Anna MurrinDecember 31, 2019

This Metro Denver C.A.T. project aimed to remove barriers facing residents needing help for cats in Denver, CO, through use of a pop-up community program. The model proved agile, easily transportable and replicable. The cumulative data collected in the Elyria Swansea neighborhood, when compared with data from their previous pilot project in Southwest Denver, allows for a set of indicators that can be used to identify high-need neighborhoods.

Two by Two Foster Community Program

Trudy JohnsonDecember 31, 2019

This research project from the Alabama-based rescue, Two by Two Rescue, aims to evaluate their program to recruit and retain foster caregivers. The five components to this program are recruitment, education, support, fulfillment, and evaluation. The organization gained detailed insight regarding foster caregiver satisfaction based on a series of surveys completed during 2018 and 2019. They achieved their goal of an 80% foster retention.

Lifesaving Protocol for At Risk Dogs: Part 2

Kristen Hassen-Auerbach, Director of Animal Services Pima Animal Care Center, Tucson, Arizona & Sheila Segurson, DVM, DACVB, Director of Research, Maddie's FundOctober 24, 2019

Part 2: The Challenges of Saving Medium and Large Dogs in Shelters. This webcast is the second in a two-part series but can be viewed on its own and will be useful to shelter leadership at all levels, volunteers, advocates and anyone else who struggles to save big dogs' lives.

The Role of Vitamin D as a Biomarker for Immune Function in Shelter Dogs

Dr. Jared JaffeyOctober 15, 2019

This Midwestern University study aimed to determine if there was a link between immune function and Vitamin D in shelter dogs. The study found that dogs in a shelter for 7 days demonstrated more immune issues compared to healthy control dogs. There was no significant difference in the production of white blood cell production of cytokines between shelter dogs and healthy dogs. However, higher Vitamin D concentration was found to be associated with higher destruction of the bacterium, E. coli, per cell in both the control and shelter populations.

Establishing Normal Reference Intervals for Radiographic, Echocardiographic and Cardiac Biomarker Values in Healthy Kittens

Karen Vernau, DVMSeptember 30, 2019

This study aims to define the true normal reference intervals for kittens' hearts by radiographs and basic echocardiographic exam, as well as for cardiac biomarker testing.

Evaluation of the Effects of Zylkene^7reg; on Dogs Exhibiting Anxiety in the Shelter Setting

Margaret Haenn, Marie HopfensbergerAugust 31, 2019

This Michigan State University Summer Scholar study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Zylkene^® (primary ingredient: decapeptide caseinate hydrolysate) in relieving anxiety in dogs in a municipal shelter. Two different observers evaluated signs of stress exhibited by the enrolled dogs, but their findings were inconclusive. Observer #1 found that, of the 15 enrolled dogs, 6 of those that received treatment and 5 of the placebo group demonstrated lower anxiety. Observer #2 found that 3 enrolled dogs which received treatment and 3 enrolled dogs from the placebo group demonstrated lower anxiety.

The Forgotten Kitten Project

Ann DunnJuly 31, 2019

This Cat Town study aimed to evaluate the behavior of unsocialized kittens participating in a socialization program at Cat Town. Due to illness during the study period, only 7 kittens were able to complete the program where they were habituated to people. The kittens all exhibited improved behavior, with 5 of the 7 showing overall affiliative behaviors.

To Evaluate the Effects of Incubator Housing and Feeding Frequency on Growth Rate and Diarrhea in Orphaned Neonatal Kittens

Arielle LaymanJuly 31, 2019

This University of California Davis Summer Scholar study is part of a two-year project investigating 1) if orphaned neonatal kittens kept in incubators have significant differences in growth rate or incidence of diarrhea compared to those not kept in incubators, and 2) how differences in feeding frequency affect growth rate and incidence of diarrhea. The study found the incubator kittens (n=70) had a far higher prevalence of diarrhea at 69% than the control kittens (n=15) at 20%, without clear cause. Kittens with diarrhea had a slightly lower feeding frequency than kittens without diarrhea, suggesting more frequent but small meals may be beneficial in diarrhea prevention in neonates. There was little to no association found in feeding frequency and growth rate.

Practical Aspects of Dentistry in Shelter Pets

Sandra Manfra-Marretta, DVM, DACVS, DAVDC, Professor Emerita, Small Animal Surgery and Dentistry, University of Illinois College of Veterinary MedicineJuly 2019

This workshop will focus on the practical aspects of dentistry in shelter pets. This presentation was recorded at the 2019 ASPCA Maddie's^® Cornell Shelter Medicine Conference.

The Basics on Basic Veterinary Care

Lori Bierbrier, DVMJuly 2019

This workshop uses the ASPCA Primary Pet Care program as a case study for how to incorporate affordable and accessible preventive and basic veterinary care into your organization. It was recorded at the 2019 ASPCA Maddie's^® Cornell Shelter Medicine Conference.

Soft Tissue Surgery Tips & Tricks for the Shelter Vet

Galina Hayes, DVM, PhD, DACVS, DACVECC, Assistant Professor, Section of Small Animal Surgery, Cornell University College of Veterinary MedicineJuly 2019

The goal of this lecture is to discuss and to provide some helpful pointers on performing various non-spay/neuter procedures. This presentation was recorded at the 2019 ASPCA Maddie's^® Cornell Shelter Medicine Conference.

Putting Down the Scalpel: Learning to Lead as a Doctor & Manager

Katie Broaddus, DVM, CAWA, Chief Operations Officer, Austin Humane SocietyJuly 2019

This session will help veterinarians understand how they can leverage their scientific training and problem-solving skills to make an even bigger impact. This presentation was recorded at the 2019 ASPCA Maddie's^® Cornell Shelter Medicine Conference.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Radiographs

Erin Epperly, DVM, DACVR, Assistant Clinical Professor, Section of Diagnostic Imaging, Cornell University College of Veterinary MedicineJuly 2019

A case-based, interactive session full of practical pointers to make your time in radiography more effective and efficient. This presentation was recorded at the 2019 ASPCA Maddie's^® Cornell Shelter Medicine Conference.

Ringworm for LVTs: Fight the Fungus

Melanie Benetato, VMD, MS, Adoption Center, ASPCAJuly 2019

This workshop reviews current best practices in ringworm diagnosis, treatment and management in a shelter setting. This presentation was recorded at the 2019 ASPCA Maddie's^® Cornell Shelter Medicine Conference.

Beyond Spay/Neuter: Models for Expanding Access to Veterinary Care

Jocelyn Kessler, MBA, Senior Director of Operations, Community Medicine, ASPCA and Lori Bierbrier, DVM, ASPCAJuly 2019

Join us to look inside organizations who have expanded their services to help remove barriers to care in their communities. This presentation was recorded at the 2019 ASPCA Maddie's^® Cornell Shelter Medicine Conference.

Beyond Just Kittens: Strategic & Creative Use of Foster Care

Erin Doyle, DVM, DABVP, Senior Director of Shelter Medicine, ASPCAJuly 2019

In this workshop, the presenter reviews the basics of maintaining an organized, proactive foster network and then delve into examples of how organizations are using foster care in thoughtful and creative ways. This presentation was recorded at the 2019 ASPCA Maddie's^® Cornell Shelter Medicine Conference.

Gentle Handling: Techniques to Reduce Stress & Save Time

Erin Doyle, DVM, DABVP, Senior Director of Shelter Medicine, ASPCAJuly 2019

Learn techniques for handling the animals in our care in a low-stress, gentle manner. This presentation was recorded at the 2019 ASPCA Maddie's^® Cornell Shelter Medicine Conference.

Local, State and Federal Animal Response Capabilities in a Disaster

Tim Perciful, Disaster Response Manager, Field Investigations & Response, ASPCAJuly 2019

This talk discusses the major findings from three major surveys and how those results may guide local jurisdictions in determining and enhancing animal response capabilities. This presentation was recorded at the 2019 ASPCA Maddie's^® Cornell Shelter Medicine Conference.

Feline Leukemia Virus in a Shelter Setting: Effectiveness and Outcome

Ellen JeffersonApril 30, 2019

This study evaluated Austin Pets Alive!'s (APA!) model of care and adoption of FeLV-positive cats (FeLV cats) and assessed the experiences of their adopters. Results showed that 90% of the FeLV-positive cats remain alive 12 months after adoption and the average age of surviving cats is 3.32 years thus far, exceeding the commonly industry-cited 2-3 year lifespan for FeLV cats. The majority (65%) of FeLV cat adopters felt that APA!'s education about FeLV was very helpful. Almost all (99%) FeLV cat adopters were happy with their cats, and 80% would be very likely to adopt a FeLV cat again.

Foster Caregiver Involvement in Adoption: Community Pet Adoption Partnerships Survey

Amber FreiwaldJune 30, 2016

: In this survey, we examined the extent to which various organizations allow or encourage the involvement of their foster caregivers in the adoption process. Eighty-one percent strongly agreed or agreed that programs empowering foster caregivers to find homes for their foster animals are effective in increasing capacity and/or organizational resources, yet only 65% reportedly allowed foster caregivers to be highly involved in the adoption process.