Build confidence in the core skills needed to care for dogs and cats in a shelter environment.
Foundations of Shelter Management is Battersea’s core programme for people working in dog or cat shelters or rehoming organisations. It gives you a clear grounding in the daily realities of shelter work and helps you build the knowledge you need to support animal welfare with confidence.
The programme is flexible. You can dip into the modules most relevant to your role or work through the full programme at your own pace. You’ll start with five general modules, then choose from dog‑specific or cat‑specific pathways depending on your interests and development goals.
Modules are delivered through a mix of self‑paced online learning and live sessions led by Battersea specialists. Each one is designed to be manageable alongside the demands of a busy shelter.
Learners who complete all general modules plus either the full dog or cat pathway can apply for the optional Residential Week at Battersea’s London and Old Windsor centres.
What you’ll get out of it
- A strong foundation in how shelters operate day to day
- A clear understanding of dog and cat welfare and rehoming principles
- Practical tools to support decision making and animal wellbeing
- Flexible learning that fits around your role
- Optional progression to an in‑person Residential Week.
How the programme works
- Five general modules for all learners
- Optional dog‑specific or cat‑specific pathways
- Mix of self‑paced e‑learning, pre‑recorded content and live online sessions
- Complete the modules that matter most to you or follow the full programme.
Who it’s for
- People new to working in animal welfare
- Anyone wanting to refresh their knowledge
- Staff or volunteers looking to build confidence in shelter management
- People aiming to progress in their animal welfare career.
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