Wags, Wellness, and the Big Picture: Mastering Modern Shelter Medicine

This continuing education session provides a comprehensive overview of shelter medicine, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities in caring for populations of homeless animals. Attendees will explore key principles in population health, biosecurity, infectious disease management, behavior assessment, and the ethical considerations surrounding shelter euthanasia and capacity for care. The presentation will also highlight innovations in shelter protocols, including evidence-based practices for outbreak prevention, vaccination strategies, and the integration of community medicine to reduce shelter intake and improve outcomes. Participants will gain practical tools to optimize care in shelter environments while supporting the well-being of animals, staff, and the broader community. This session is designed for veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and shelter professionals seeking to enhance their impact in the field of animal sheltering.