Simplifying Shelter Behaviour

Simplifying Shelter Behaviour

Shelter and Rescue can be difficult environments for workers and the animals in their care. This podcast, hosted by Tom Candy BSc (Hons) MSC CCAB, CSBS, CDBC. Brings together some of the leaders in the field of animal behaviour to discuss practical tips and tricks that can be utilised by shelter workers, volunteers or anyone with an interest in animal sheltering or rescue. The podcast aims to bring high quality education, to improve behaviour and welfare of animal using up to date thinking and methodologies.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Ep. 57. Intergrating behaviour into shelter operations with Dr. Meghan Herron

    In this episode we discuss the importance of integrating behaviour into all of our shelter practices, including how we can do this successfully, what some of the challenges are and what structures look like in a range of shelter operations with and without behaviour teams. About Dr. Herron Dr. Meghan Herron serves as the senior director of behavior, research and education at Gigi’s, a shelter organization dedicated to improving the lives of shelter dogs. Prior to this role, she spent over a decade as an associate professor in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at the Ohio State University and currently holds an adjunct position with the Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine. She also holds adjunct teaching positions at the University of Florida, St. Matthews University, Lincoln Memorial University and Virginia PolyTech University. With extensive experience working with shelter and rescue animals in both the Columbus, Ohio, and Philadelphia areas, Dr. Herron has a deep commitment to behavior problem prevention and improving the quality of life and adoptability of shelter animals. As a published author and international speaker, she has delivered engaging, educational and evidence-based presentations to veterinarians, animal care professionals and pet owners across the United States, Canada, Europe and Australia. Dr. Herron is the lead editor on the book “Decoding Your Cat” and a contributor to “Decoding Your Dog.” Her most recent work, “Introduction to Animal Behavior and Veterinary Behavioral Medicine,” a textbook designed to provide a strong foundation in animal behavior concepts, as well as an introduction to clinical behavioral medicine, is available now from Amazon and other major retailers. Dr. Herron graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in zoology and obtained her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. She then went on to complete a three-year residency program in behavioral medicine at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Veterinary Medicine and is now board certified as a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behavior. Links Gigi’s rescue - https://gigis.org

    1h 2m

  2. 24 FEB

    Ep. 56 Muzzle and Misunderstood- Improving the Perception of Muzzle Dogs in Shelter and Rescue.

    In this episode, we explore how dog shelter and rescue professionals can reshape public perception of muzzles, using one of the most powerful tools available: photography. While muzzles are often misunderstood as symbols of aggression, they are valuable tools for safety, training, enrichment, and responsible handling. The challenge isn’t the muzzle itself it’s the story the image tells. We’ll discuss how intentional, positive imagery can transform that narrative. From capturing relaxed body language and soft facial expressions to showcasing bright, well-fitted basket muzzles during enrichment walks or training sessions, the right photos can normalize muzzle use and build adopter confidence.  By reframing muzzles through thoughtful visual storytelling, Daine has created the amazing book, Muzzled and Misunderstood.  About Diane Gollowitzer  Diane is an award-winning dog photographer based in Winchester, UK. She specialises in high-end wall art and provides a highly personalised service where everything is tailored to the dog's and the owner's needs.  Her sessions are stress-free and a lot of fun, where the dogs are allowed to be dogs. Her philosophy is that everyone deserves artwork of their dog no matter if they are trained or not if they are allowed off lead or not, or if they are nervous, anxious, or reactive. Diane started a personal project where she photographs dogs who are wearing muzzles. The inspiration was her terrier, Deedee, who can be reactive and wears a muzzle on our walks. I want to break the stigma around muzzles and muzzled dogs. Diane then invited the guardians of the dogs to write letters to them about their relationship and experiences  Links  Diane’s Website- https://www.dogsinfocusphotography.com Muzzled and Misunderstood Book- https://www.amazon.co.uk/Muzzled-Misunderstood-Diane-Gollowitzer/dp/1910488747 Muzzle Movement Discount Code- https://themuzzlemovement.com/?ref=fofhKIPajXn36l

    17 min

  3. 11 FEB

    Ep. 55 Medical and behaviour, can we separate them? With Dr. Èlise Christensen

    In this episode, veterinary behaviourist Dr. Elise Christensen examines the role of underlying medical conditions in shaping animal behaviour within shelter environments. She discusses how pain, systemic illness, and stress-related physiological changes can manifest as behavioural concerns that are often misattributed to behaviour or training concerns. Emphasizing evidence-based assessment, Dr. Christensen underscores the importance of comprehensive medical evaluation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and informed behavioural interpretation. The discussion highlights behaviour as a critical indicator of health and welfare, with significant implications for clinical decision-making, risk assessment, and adoption outcomes in shelter medicine. About Dr. Elise Christensen Dr. C is a Cornell-trained veterinary behaviorist and every high school parent's nightmare: a pet psychiatrist. Brilliant, struggling animals are the only puzzles she wants to solve. If one of these Complex Pets is pushing you to the edge, you belong here. Her boutique veterinary behavior service blends the academic with the practical, helping families move from stuck to hopeful. So they can graduate faster. She lectures internationally to veterinarians, trainers, and shelter professionals, and partners with pediatricians and family doctors to help Amazing Pet People and their Complex Pets thrive together. Links https://www.drcvetbehavior.com/

    50 min

  4. 14 JAN

    Ep. 54 want more time, money and resources. Here where to start Behaviour edition with Leeron Liftik

    Ep. 54 want more time, money and resources, here’s where to start. Behaviour edition with Leeron Liftik In this episode, we explore the journey of Leeron Liftik into shelter and rescue dog behaviour, shaped by early hands-on work in high-pressure shelter environments. Seeing how many decisions about dogs were made with limited evidence sparked a shift toward behavioural science and data-driven approaches. Leeron discusses how thoughtfully collected behaviour data can improve outcomes for dogs, reducing stress, supporting better adoption matches, and helping shelters make fairer, more consistent decisions. The conversation highlights the role of collaboration across stakeholders, from shelter staff and trainers to researchers and policymakers, and the importance of using data ethically, with the dog’s lived experience at the centre. Through small data based changes Leeron talks us through how he was able to create more time, money and resources for his teams, something we all strive to do! About Leeron Liftik Leeron Liftik is a dog trainer and behaviour specialist with a background in shelter and rescue environments. Their work focuses on understanding canine behaviour in high-stress contexts and improving outcomes for dogs through evidence-based training and assessment. Leeron has worked closely with shelters, trainers, and welfare organisations to support safer handling, better adoption matches, and reduced relinquishment. With a strong interest in the role of data in animal welfare, Leeron advocates for practical, ethical use of behavioural information to inform decision-making across the rescue sector. Driven by a commitment to both compassion and clarity, Leeron’s approach bridges hands-on training experience with behavioural science to help dogs and the people supporting them. Links Sourdough video! https://fb.watch/ECmzYwLKEv/?fs=e

    50 min

  5. 17/12/2025

    Ep. 53 L.E.G.S and Total Welfare Model for Shelter and Rescue with Dr Kim Brophey

    In this episode, Tom is joined by Dr. Kim Brophey, applied ethologist, author, and founder of Family Dog Mediation®, for an in-depth conversation on the L.E.G.S.® model, Family Dog Mediation, and the Total Welfare Model. Together, they explore how moving beyond one-size-fits-all training and behaviour labels can transform outcomes for dogs and the people who care for them. Dr. Brophey breaks down the L.E.G.S. framework, Learning, Environment, Genetics, and Self, and explains how understanding the whole dog allows shelter and rescue professionals to make better assessments, reduce mislabelling, and support safer, more successful placements. The discussion highlights how Family Dog Mediation shifts the focus from “fixing” dogs to mediating between dogs, humans, and their environments. The episode also dives into the Total Welfare Model, emphasizing ethical, practical decision-making that balances individual dog welfare, public safety, and organizational capacity. Packed with real-world insight, this conversation offers shelter and rescue teams a more humane, sustainable approach to behaviour, advocacy, and long-term success. About Dr. Kim Brophey  Kim Brophey, owner of The Dog Door Behavior Center, is an academically educated applied ethologist (member of The International Society for Applied Ethology), an awarded member (Outstanding Trainer of the Year 2009) of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers since 2000, a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants since 2006, and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) since 2002. Kim is an established and well-respected leader in the dog training and behavior field , speaking locally and nationally at universities and conferences for 20 years. Kim has authored a ground-breaking book for dog owners to translate and deliver comprehensive canine science to the public - MEET YOUR DOG, developed a trademarked model of dog welfare and behavior - Dog L.E.G.S., and delivered a popular TED talk - "The Problem With Treating Your Dog Like a Pet".Kim's unique background and commitment to the whole picture of behavioral health from the integrated applied ethology perspective of dog behavior and welfare have positioned her as Asheville's most trusted, veterinarian referred, shelter and professional field active (serving on board of directors for the Asheville Humane Society and the IAABC), and community awarded (Voted "Best of WNC Dog Trainer" for 6 years).Kim Brophey specializes in complex problems such as fear, aggression, and anxiety and is consistently reviewed by clients as an invaluably compassionate and effective resource for understanding and solving serious behavior challenges that traditional dog training has failed to address. For those seeking assistance with basic puppy training, manners, and therapy and service dog training, Kim continues to provide expert council and services to meet those goals as well. Links Family Dog Mediation- https://www.familydogmediation.com Conferences- https://legsinmotionconference.com Total welfare app- https://www.totalwelfareapp.com  BAT meets LEGS: Total Welfare for dogs and people-  https://school.grishastewart.com/courses/batlegs?ref=352ff9

    49 min

  6. 03/12/2025

    Ep.52 Behind the Kennel Door, Behaviour Assessments with Dr. Liam Clay

    In this episode, we’re joined by behaviour specialist Dr Liam Clay, whose research focuses on canine behaviour assessment, behavioural problems and adoption suitability in shelter environments.  Together, we unpack what behaviour assessments in shelters actually tell us about a dog and what they don’t. About Dr. Clay Dr. Clay studied at the University of Queensland (UQ), from which he holds his honours in stress and behavioral problems and a doctorate in canine behavior assessment, behavioral problems, and adoption suitability. He also became the first veterinary technician specialist in behavior in Australia in 2020. Dr. Clay is the director of Future Proof Training Academy as well as Applied Animal Behaviour Consultants. He is an adjunct lecturer and researcher with the UQ School of Veterinary Science, where he researches and supervises students in the areas of canine behavior problems, shelter behavior, behavior assessments, One Health, and behavior therapy.

    48 min

  7. 19/11/2025

    Ep. 51 Supporting Frustrated Shelter Dogs with Dr. Sophie Liu

    In this episode, veterinary behaviourist Dr. Sophie Liu dives into the complex world of shelter dogs and frustration-related behaviour, why it happens, how it looks, and what we can practically do to help these dogs cope and thrive. The conversation starts by unpacking what frustration actually is for dogs in a shelter setting: the emotional state that sits between “I want something” and “I can’t get it.” Dr. Liu explains how limited freedom, barriers (kennel doors, leashes, gates), unpredictable routines, and social isolation can all turn normal emotions into chronic frustration. We also discuss strategies to support frustrated dogs and how we can implement these successfully in shelter and rescues. About Dr. Sophie Liu As a veterinarian, published scientific author, and an accomplished dog trainer, Dr. Sophie Liu is a highly sought after behavior consultant and presenter. After receiving ACVB-resident training, Dr. Liu returned to her roots in Oakland, CA to provide a full range of services for East Bay dog owners. Dr. Liu knows that raising a puppy or a well-adjusted adult dog requires a perfect blend of a dog's genetic background + confident learning experiences + expert management. And it's actually extremely hard! So, for those owners who want the right start or are looking for help with a specific behavior problem, Dr. Liu has seen it all and is ready to help!

    38 min

  8. 05/11/2025

    Ep.50 Simplifying Puppy Rearing in Shelter and Rescue with Suzanne Clothier

    Ep.50 Simplifying Puppy Raising in Shelter and Rescue with Suzanne Clothier  In this episode, Tom talks with Susanne Clothier about what it takes to raise behaviourally healthy puppies, with a focus on the special considerations for those growing up in rescue or shelter settings. Suzanne shares her experiences with supporting puppies’ emotional and social development, creating positive early experiences, and building a foundation for lifelong well-being. About Suzanne Clothier  Suzanne Clothier’s work reflects a lifetime shared with dogs and many other animals, as well as her extensive professional experience. She has been working with animals professionally since 1977, with a deep, broadly varied background of experience. Her Relationship Centered Training (RCT™) approach has been helping people and dogs for more than 30 years. Blending heart and science, her deeply holistic approach to the dog and to the dog/human relationship is unparalled. An innovative trainer, Suzanne’s work has helped dogs and people around the world in countless ways. Her books, DVDs, article, assessment tools, training techniques and materials have been put to use in guide & service dog organizations, in animal assisted therapy, for every day pet owners, and by trainers, breeders, veterinarians, academics and in research. Links  Suzannes Free Resources-https://suzanneclothier.com/articles-in-english/ Enriched Puppy Protocall-https://suzanneclothier.com/shop/enriched-puppy-protocol/ Other courses- https://suzanneclothier.com/product-category/courses/

    1h 5m
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About

Shelter and Rescue can be difficult environments for workers and the animals in their care. This podcast, hosted by Tom Candy BSc (Hons) MSC CCAB, CSBS, CDBC. Brings together some of the leaders in the field of animal behaviour to discuss practical tips and tricks that can be utilised by shelter workers, volunteers or anyone with an interest in animal sheltering or rescue. The podcast aims to bring high quality education, to improve behaviour and welfare of animal using up to date thinking and methodologies.

Information

  • Creator
    Simplifying Shelter Behaviour
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    58
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Simplifying Shelter Behaviour
  • Show Website
    Simplifying Shelter Behaviour

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