Calling America! Urban Animal Leaders are Under-Represented

US Industry Represents Less than 10% of Urban Animal Scholarships

Large numbers of Urban Animal Leaders live within reach of Urban Animal events and are eligible for an Urban Animal Scholarship. Furthermore, the strength of the US dollar currently provides a 20% advantage to attend North American events held in Canadian centres.

The Urban Animal Scholarship Program was initiated in Canada more than 10 years ago. The Alliance for Urban Animals drives state-of-the-art strategies for companion and service animals in urban municipalities across North America. Over the past decade there has been Urban Animal involvement from many successful and provocative Americans who are  now distinguished as award winners, alumni and mentors. Here are some of them:
 

• Dr. Margaret Slater from the ASPCA, worked with the Edmonton Humane Society to confirm that fee-waived cat adoptions are just as successful and valued as those that have a price tag.

• Risa Weinstock, New York City Animal Care & Control, developed their first mobile adoption center. The vehicle brings adoptable dogs and cats to New Yorkers across five boroughs.
• Dr. Stephen Ettinger, co-founder of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, helped establish the Berkeley Veterinary Medical Group and also published the "Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine," the gold standard in veterinary medical texts. Dr. Ettinger was the recipient of the 2014 Lifetime Achievement Award.
• Susan Thixton, nutrition and truth advocate for pet food, stirred up a discussion about industry responsibilities in communication to pet owners.
• Dr. Jane Brunt of Catalyst Council helped focus the 2009 Summit for Urban Animal Strategies on raising the value of Cats in our communities.
• Dr. Lesley Lyons of UCDavis, illuminated the cat genome and historical cat movements to succeed as a species in urban environments globally.
• Betsy Saul, Founder of Petfinder.com, challenged thinking about ethical and moral dilemmas. 

The Alliance for Urban Animals strives to eliminate walls between industry sectors, promotes collaboration and facilitates conversations that create positive pet experiences in Urban Municipalities. Americans are underrepresented in the Alliance for Urban Animals, and the scholarship programs.  Moreover, it is now technically feasible to provide virtual adjudication events for American Scholarship nominees who cannot attend a scheduled event. The Urban Animal Foundation welcomes participation from America’s emerging leaders, innovators, researchers, digital journalists and summit recognition awards.

Please contact Shannon Woodward, Urban Animal Program Manager to discuss your involvement 403.208.1972