Animal Shelter Management Certificate Program
Hosted by the University of the Pacific, this award-winning online certificate developed by Humane Network is now powered by Petco Love. The program equips current and aspiring shelter professionals with practical knowledge and valuable networking in shelter leadership, operations, and external initiatives through expert-led webinars, dynamic discussions, and collaborative projects.
Animal Shelter Management Certificate Program Content
Shelter Leadership
Effective leadership is the foundation of a thriving organization. Designed for current and aspiring leaders, this course provides insights to help guide organizations with clarity, purpose, and impact. Participants will explore the essential elements of shelter leadership, cultivate their leadership style, strengthen their ability to build and lead a strong team, create a positive culture, and understand the importance of strategic planning to shape their organization’s future.
Course Dates: 10/20/25 – 12/21/25
Shelter Operations
Quality animal care and efficient processes are essential to a shelter’s success and lifesaving mission. Designed for shelter professionals and leaders, this course provides the knowledge and skills to ensure exceptional care for animals and develop effective adoption programs, all while delivering excellent customer service for the community. Participants will explore animal care and enrichment for both cats and dogs, understand core principles of shelter medicine and clinic operations, and be provided with an essential understanding of animal health considerations to make appropriate decisions.
Course Dates: 1/12/26 – 3/8/26
External Shelter Initiatives
Development, including fundraising, marketing and outreach, are essential to the success and long-term sustainability of any organization. This course, designed for shelter professionals and leaders, will give participants the skills needed to help their organization grow and succeed. Participants will also explore ways to engage their community, communicate effectively with the public and the local media, build strong partnerships and develop volunteer and outreach programs that provide essential services, and support their lifesaving mission.
Course Dates: 3/23/26 – 5/17/26
Who will benefit from the program?
Professionals seeking a career change to something more personally fulfilling
New shelter directors
Shelter directors or managers wishing to improve their organization’s live release rate and sustainability
People working in the animal welfare field who wish to advance into management roles
Board members of animal shelters
Course Credit
Upon completion of all three courses, you will receive a Certificate in Animal Shelter Management from the University of the Pacific.
Each course earns:
Continuing Education Units (CEUs) from the University of the Pacific
Association of Animal Welfare Advancement (CAWA) Continuing Education (CE) credits
Schedule and Registration
Each of the three online courses are eight weeks long and are offered sequentially. You can sign up for individual courses or all three for a discount. All three must be completed to receive a certificate. The entire program is about seven months long start to finish.
Information on upcoming start dates of each course and links to register can be found on the University of the Pacific website.
Thank you for all your help through the courses for this certificate program! I have learned so much along the way. I now feel confident and prepared as a Shelter Manager. I am grateful for all you've taught me and will refer back to it often.
Angel V.
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