Join us for an in-depth, full-day seminar focused on working with fearful, people-fearful, and socially neglected dogs. This special seminar is designed for shelter/rescue staff, volunteers, adopters, dog trainers, and fosters. It blends science, practical skills, and real-world application, and it is an expanded version of a seminar presented by DVGRR’s Lisa Jagielski and Heather Hatt at the Humane World for Animals Animal Care Expo in 2019.
Date: Sat., Sept. 26, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: DVGRR’s Adoption & Activity Center
Cost:
- $100.00
- Includes: coffee, water, snacks, and full lunch plus handout materials
Capacity: Limited to 40 participants
Register at: https://dvgrr.org/shop/continuing-the-journey-this-is-not-tax-deductible-copy/
Who Should Attend
This seminar is ideal for:
- Volunteers
- Foster homes
- Adopters
What We’ll Cover
The seminar will walk you through the full journey of supporting fearful dogs, including:
- The science behind fear and behavior
- Intake processes for people-fearful dogs
- Creating safe, low-stress environments
- Safety protocols to prevent escape
- Safe handling techniques
- Leash acclimation for fearful dogs
- Reducing stress during grooming and vet visits
- Enrichment strategies for emotional well-being
- Building trust, confidence, and resilience
- Rehabilitation plans and documenting/assessing progressions and regressions
- Proper setups for kennels, foster homes, and adoptive homes
The Presenters:
Lisa Jagielski, DVGRR Intake Manager and Trainer
Having been on staff since 2016 (and a volunteer prior to that), Lisa screens dogs prior to intake and works with breeders and other rescues/shelters in transferring dogs to DVGRR. She also spearheaded and leads our weekly Life Skills program where volunteers work with dogs to help them adjust to the everyday items they may never have experienced.
She has attended courses in canine training and management from Kutztown University as well as a number of professional dog trainer’s conferences, including those offered by Dr. Ian Dunbar, Kyra Sundance, Nicole Larrocco Skeehan, and Debbie Jacobs.
Heather Hatt, Manager of DVGRR Sanctuary for Senior Goldens and Puppy Mill Survivors, Project Home Life Director
Heather has been on staff since 2006 and also serves as DVGRR’s onsite caretaker. She developed our nationally renowned Project Home Life program in which we work with puppy mill survivors and under-socialized dogs to help them adjust to life in a normal home, and she authored our Continuing the Journey booklet.
Since its creation in 2013, she’s managed our DVGRR Sanctuary for Senior Goldens and Puppy Mill Survivors, and she oversees DVGRR’s monthly Shy Dog Park, providing a safe place for adopted puppy mill survivors and other shy dogs to play and socialize.
Registration:
- Is required, and space is limited to 40 participants
- Closes Aug. 21, 2026 or when capacity is reached
- Complete the online registration form along with payment.
- Spot is not guaranteed until payment is received
Register at: https://dvgrr.org/shop/continuing-the-journey-this-is-not-tax-deductible-copy/