CNY Shelter Forum: A Collaborative Experience

frustrated_womanHave you ever felt as though your organization is a small island in the sea of shelter work? Have you ever wished you could find out how others handle situations?

The Central New York Shelter Forum is the brainchild of Dr. Berliner, the Director of Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Program at Cornell University. Hosted by the Shelter Medicine Program , local shelters are invited to meet the first Thursday of every  month at Cornell University. The purpose is to discuss a specific topic (suggested by those who participate) in a friendly, nonjudgmental environment.  Veterinarians and staff from the Shelter Medicine Program initiate the conversation by giving a brief presentation at the beginning. Then the floor is opened up for anyone to ask questions, offer suggestions, or share stories. Feedback from those who have attended so far has shown a tremendous appreciation for simply being able to hear what other shelters are doing.1011871.large

The first meeting took place in September where Dr. Hoshizaki led the discussion on intake protocols for dogs and cats. When to vaccinate, types of vaccines, de-worming, flea/tick control, and  housing are examples of items that were discussed. In our October meeting, Dr. Putnam prompted discussion on spay/neuter programs, surgical age, holding of animals until spay/neuter is performed, and required resources for an efficient spay/neuter program.

470745_10150786259925903_1732259428_oOur next CNY Shelter Forum will take place on November 6th at 5:30pm. Casey Lomonaco, the Behavior Programs Manager from the SPCA of Tompkins County, will start a discussion on Top Behavior Problems found in the shelter. Any shelter within a reasonable distance from Cornell University is welcome to join us. If you would like details on when and where it all happens please email sheltermedicine@cornell.edu

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