Summer Conference: Rescue Superheroes
Kiwi Vet Behaviour hosted a two-day conference discussing compassionate ways to support both animals and humans in rescue environments, including solutions to supporting foster caregivers and pet parents of newly adopted rescue dogs. It was a delight to welcome our guest speaker, Debbie Jacobs, who traveled all the way from USA to share her insights, as well as Veterinary Behaviourist, Dr Jess Beer, and Toni Austin from Da Vinci Dog Training and Club K9 to share their knowledge.
With special thanks to our sponsors, Purina, Ceva ADAPTIL FELIWAY, Companion Animals New Zealand and PAW by BLACKMORES for making the event possible.
Debbie Jacobs CPDT-KA, RBT
Guest Speaker
Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Registered Behavior Technician. Debbie uses the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis to assess problem behaviors and formulate management and training plans to increase appropriate behaviors and decrease unwanted ones.
Debbie is recognized internationally for her commitment to helping animals struggling with fear-based behavior challenges, and educating on best practices in training. Her specialty includes working with animals requiring rehabilitation due to trauma, and transitioning to new homes and environments. Debbie's book, A Guide To Living & Working With A Fearful Dog’ was a finalist in the Dog Writer’s Association of America’s annual writing competition in 2008.
Debbie's presentation will feature information about why dogs behave the ways they do and the most effective and humane ways to change problem behaviors in dogs. Pet owners, shelter and kennel staff, groomers, veterinarians and technicians, dog trainers, pet sitters, day care staff and anyone interested in dogs will find this an informative and enlightening seminar on dog behavior.
Our Speakers
Dr Jess Beer OLY BVSc MANZCVS
A qualified Veterinary Behaviourist with over 20 years experience in the animal and veterinary industry in New Zealand and overseas. Dr Jess Beer is the Founder & Director of Kiwi Vet Behaviour.
Passionate about supporting pet guardians with empathy and science-based care, Jess is thrilled to be creating new spaces for veterinary professionals, trainers and animals to communicate, and to be helping build new connections in the animal industry.
Join Dr Jess Beer where she will discuss setting young puppies and kittens up for successful fostering and rehoming. She will share solutions to common problems these animals face.
Toni Austin CAM-CBT, FFCP
Certified in Canine Behaviour and Training, a Fear Free Certified Professional and Founder of da Vinci Dog and Club K9.
Toni has been working with rescues for over seven years and is an active foster and trainer for rescues in Auckland, bringing first hand experience and dedication to supporting rescue dogs and their fosters / guardians.
Toni emphasizes positive reinforcement, cooperative care, and enrichment throughout all her dealings with rescue dogs. In this presentation, Toni will explore the 3-3-3 Rule for rehomed dogs, shedding light on how rescues can better support, find, and nurture current and potential fosters.
When it comes to fosters, what could the rescues do better? Let’s discuss bridging gaps in training, resources, and communication which will ensure both fosters and dogs thrive.