The Animal Safety for Human Serving Organizations workshop, led by experts from the Toronto Humane Society, introduces social service staff to the human-animal bond and its significance in the context of human services. The workshop covers medical, wellness, and behavioral considerations for cats and dogs, offering proactive guidelines for pet safety in shared spaces. Participants will learn how to read canine body language, implement safety practices, and manage emergency situations involving animals. A Q&A session will conclude each workshop, allowing participants to ask questions and engage with the instructors.
As more clients with pets engage with human service organizations, understanding the benefits and challenges of having pets in these environments becomes essential, especially for those facing housing instability or fleeing violence. Service providers must address medical, behavioral, and resource-related issues to ensure a safe environment for both humans and animals. This training also covers the “Violence Link,” which explores the connection between animal abuse and domestic violence, helping service providers prevent harm and improve safety for both animals and humans.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the human-animal bond and the challenges it presents for pet owners in hardship.
- Learn medical and behavioral considerations for animals to ensure safety in shared spaces.
- Understand relevant animal-related legislation, including animal cruelty laws, and the duty to report abuse.
- Gain insight into resources available to support clients with pets, addressing their medical and behavioral needs.
- Explore the concept of the “Violence Link” and its relevance to domestic violence and animal welfare.
Learning Outcomes:
- Recognize the human-animal bond and its importance, understanding how pets can benefit clients facing hardship while acknowledging the challenges they present in shared spaces.
- Apply knowledge of medical and behavioral considerations to ensure safety when managing animals in environments shared by people and pets, including recognizing signs of stress in animals and handling emergency situations effectively.
- Understand the legal responsibilities related to animals in human service settings, including distinguishing between service and companion animals, and knowing the duty to report suspected animal cruelty.
- Utilize resources available to support clients with pets, addressing their needs in terms of medical care, behavioral concerns, and ensuring their safety within shared spaces.
- Recognize the connection between animal abuse and domestic violence (the “Violence Link”) and take appropriate steps to protect both animals and humans in situations involving family violence.
Instructor: Toronto Humane Society c/o Dillon Dodson (RSW, MSW), Lauralee Dorst and Beverly McKee
Mode(s): Live In-Person
Length: One (1) day
Cost: $140 per person
Target Group: This workshop is ideal for frontline staff in shelters, respite centers, drop-ins, and residential settings, as well as anyone working with at-risk populations who have pets.
Toronto Shelter Standards Training Matrix: Client Support Staff (R)