Conference Details

Pre-conference Workshops

Pre-conference workshops are held on Friday, November 6 at an additional cost.

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Intro to Wildlife Rehabilitation - 9am-5pm

IWR covers wildlife rehabilitation regulations in Ohio, handling wildlife calls, neonatal care of orphaned wildlife, zoonotic diseases, stabilization and transportation of Category I species. This class, or an equivalent, is required by the Ohio Division of Wildlife to apply for a Category I Rehabilitation Permit. Registration fee includes manual, handouts and certificate of completion.

Everything Education (almost!) - 1-5pm

Join us as we explore how to conduct environmental education programs that support your mission and generate needed funds. This session covers setup, fees, volunteers, program design, formats, evaluation, and more.

4-hr workshop

Instructor: Manon VanSchoyck

Let's Go Birding! -

8am-12pm

Grab your binoculars and join in on a fun, hands-on intro to birding at Maumee Bay State Park! This workshop will be facilitated by Jamey Emmert, Avian Education Coordinator with the Division of Wildlife. Weather permitting, we’ll go outdoors exploring and putting bird identification skills to work in the field. But first, we will spend time in the nature center covering the basics of bird ID and how to recognize birds by their songs and calls. Whether you’re an experienced birder or just beginning, come ready to look, listen, learn! Binoculars will be available for loan or bring your own!

4-hr workshop

Instructor: Jamey Emmert

Rabies Vector Species -

9am-5pm

Rabies Vector Species (RVS) class encompasses current regulations, status of rabies in Ohio, special considerations in RVS rehabilitation, capture and restraint, exposure protocol, testing, species information and health considerations of raccoons, skunks, foxes and bats. This workshop, or equivalent, is required by Ohio Division of Wildlife to accept rabies vector species for rehabilitation.

Bandaging Techniques for Birds - 2-5pm

This is a hands on session where participants will practice applying the common bandages used in birds. Examples include a wing, body wrap, curved edge splint for wrist injuries, shoes, tibiotarsus splints and figure of 8 bandages.

3-hr workshop

Instructor: Dr. Vincent-Sturdivant

Animal Behavior Training -

8am-12pm

Using positive reinforcement and the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis, participants will be guided through assessing an animal’s behavior, comfort, physical limitations, learning history, and environment to develop practical, individualized training plans. Participants will explore reinforcer identification, enclosure arrangement, trainer positioning, choice, protective-contact and full-contact training, and strategies for working with injured, apprehensive, or inexperienced wildlife.

4-hr workshop

Instructor: Lara Joseph

Bandaging Techniques for Mammals - 8-11am

This is a hands on session where participants will practice applying the common bandages used in mammals. Examples include a padded limb bandage with stirrups, Velpeau's bandage for humerus fractures, and various splints for fracture management.

3-hr workshop

Instructor: Dr Vincent-Sturdivant

Fluid Therapy -

11am-2pm (12-1pm break for on your own lunch)

This session covers the principles of fluid therapy in rehabilitation. Key topics include the science of fluid balance, differentiating between fluid types, understanding clinical indications, routes of administration and maintenance protocols. The session will conclude with a hands-on practical lab to reinforce learning.

2-hr workshop

Instructor: Dr. Sam Valerius

OWRA

Humane World for Animals

Pre-conference Workshops