We could not love this incredible FREE resource from the @Academy for Dog Trainers more! These experts have taken the time to put together easy-to-use cooperative care information covering basic training, stationing, and conditioned emotional responses to specific veterinary tools and contexts.

We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Wesley Cheung has successfully passed a rigorous exam to become a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in Shelter Medicine Practice!

TODAY'S TOPIC: Adoption Barriers Hurt Pets and Families Many well-intended adoption policies in shelters and rescues can unintentionally create barriers between loving families and pets who need them.

New H5N1 update: There have been more deaths in cats related to H5N1 infections. These newer cases were potentially linked to contact with infected birds. (continue)

A new study from the ASPCA examines how timing of behaviour rehabilitation affects recovery from fear and stress in 43 undersocialised shelter dogs, suggesting that earlier behaviour support leads to better welfare outcomes. Here are the main findings:

Today, we honour the people and animals who have served, including those who gave their lives. We remember the cost of war and the value of peace. We are closed today in observance of Remembrance Day, and will re-open on November 12th.

Today is One Health Day, a reminder that the health of people, animals, and the environment are connected. This is especially important in shelters, where the environment makes a huge difference to animals and caregivers.

Do you want to know how accent bias can affect animal welfare? You will not want to miss this incredible Critters and Cultures podcast episode featuring our very own Dr. Wesley Cheung! www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVwx...

Part 1: Tips from the new Association for Shelter Veterinarians Guidelines for Humane Rabbit Housing in Animal Shelters! What do you think of these new Guidelines? Tell us in comments!

ICYMI! Last month, the Association of Shelter Veterinarians released new Guidelines for Humane Rabbit Housing in Animal Shelters. Stay tuned for some highlights from this document! 🐰🐇 #adoptarabbit #rabbitadoption #shelterrabbits #rabbitwelfare #ShelterMedicine #bunnyrescue #rabbitcare

Tomorrow, we are closed to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. On this day, we remember the children who never came home and honour residential school Survivors and their families.

Please join us in welcoming Kathryn Melnyk to the Haven team! She brings dedication and a deep love for shelter medicine and we are thrilled to have Kathryn on board as we expand to better support the organizations we serve! More about Kathryn below...

NEW SHELTER ARTICLE: New research shows that local anesthetic blocks in male shelter cats reduced nociception (Lower HR spikes, fewer GA depth issues) without added complications, when compared to placebo group. A simple step to increase comfort for surgeons and cats!

Thank you to Dr. Doris Leung for this amazing illustration capturing us in our natural habitat....surrounded by our cats! Fun fact: The background is inspired by the cover of a ringworm culture logbook 📕

We are THRILLED to share that the first-ever series on DEI in veterinary medicine is now FREE for everyone to read, including a 2-part publication by Dr. Gordon "Beginning with the End in Mind: Creating a Practice that Centers Equity".

Thank you to Canadian Animal Shelter And Community Medicine Association for sharing Dr Cheung's blog post summarising our recent publication on ringworm diagnostics! Read the full article:

We are excited to provide services at this upcoming clinic! Please help spread the word. @pawsforhope.bsky.social

NEW SHELTER ARTICLE: UC Davis' Koret Shelter Medicine Program just released new evidence-based recommendations on early-age spay/neuter in shelter kittens.

Part 1: Over the past 2 weeks, 5 shelters/rescues in 3 provinces have reached out for help with outbreaks. Summer is a busy time for shelters, and with that comes a higher risk of infectious disease! Here are some tips we put together:

We are thrilled that the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association has released a long-awaited update to the Code of Practice for the Care of Domestic Cats! Updated requirements and recommendations are a game-changer!

"Pride began as a protest. It grew out of people standing together when no one else would." - Vancouver Pride Society It's Pride week here in Vancouver! We bring queer joy and an intersectional lens to our work. It's who we are! Happy Pride! #VancouverPride2025 #vanpride #pride2025

Rabies found in kitten in Chemainus, BC! Owned dogs and cats (and community cats served by TNR programs) should be vaccinated for rabies! The most likely source of infection in this case was a bat. If you or your animal has ANY contact with a bat, consult your healthcare provider immediately!

Our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Kate Hurley, who receives the AVMA Animal Welfare Award today! If you are at @avmavets.bsky.social , don't miss her talk: "How to Build a Flamethrower: the Birth and Evolution of Shelter Medicine" from 4-4:50 today in room 140B! www.avma.org/news/press-r...

Need help with your to-do list? Our team supports animal shelters, rescues, and other animal welfare orgs with a variety of services!

Happy #CanadaDay🇨🇦 ! Today, let’s take the time to share with one another the stories and experiences that shaped us and our diverse nation, to honour and reflect on the TRC's Calls to Action, and to unite and build a Canada where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. #UnityInDiversity #EhTeam

Today we honour and celebrate the cultures, languages, and traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. Art: “Syewá:l”(Ancestors). Created by Zac George, Skokaylem, son of Chief Leonard George and grandson of Chief Dan George, from səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nation. #NIPD2025

Dr. Wesley Cheung is joining our team in two weeks, and we could not be more excited! His expertise in shelter and community medicine combines with a background in GP and ER as well as teaching and sociolinguistics. He's available for consults after June 27th!

We have an exciting announcement coming soon! Stay tuned!