OTTAWA, ON / AGILITYPR.NEWS / October 14, 2026 / Groundbreaking national initiative will strengthen animal care, shelter operations and leadership, helping people doing vital work in communities across the country deliver better outcomes for animals

Humane Canada has launched Canada’s first national suite of professional education programs created specifically for its members and the broader animal welfare sector. The three offerings give people working in communities across the country access to relevant, practical learning that strengthens animal care, shelter operations and organizational leadership.

The initiative is the next major step for Humane Canada’s Learning & Resource Centre, launched earlier this year with foundational funding from PetSmart Charities of Canada. The national animal welfare learning platform now offers hundreds of valuable resources, courses, guided learning options, webinars and opportunities for peer connection.

Its newest offerings—the Certificate in Humane Animal Care (CHAC), Certificate in Animal Shelter Operations (CASO) and Certified Animal Welfare Professional (CAWP) pilot designation—support learning from hands-on animal care and shelter operations to strategy and leadership.

A First for Canada’s Animal Welfare Sector

Together with Humane Canada’s Accreditation Program, the Centre connects professional learning with national standards and best practice. People gain practical skills they can apply immediately, while organizations strengthen animal care, operations, governance and accountability, building public confidence and better outcomes for animals and communities.

“The people who care for animals and support communities across Canada deserve learning designed for the realities of their work. These programs give them practical tools, recognized professional development and a stronger foundation to create lasting change, for animals, for organizations and for the communities that depend on them.” — Tara Hellewell, Director of National Engagement, Humane Canada

CAWP equips current and emerging leaders to strengthen strategy, governance and organizational performance.

CHAC builds practical skills for high-quality, evidence-informed animal care.

CASO develops the capabilities needed to manage and improve shelter operations.

Together, these programs give animal welfare professionals across Canada practical, recognized learning they can apply in their workplaces—strengthening care for animals, supporting stronger organizations and helping communities access more consistent, effective services.

Animal welfare professionals, organizations and employers can learn more about Canada’s first national animal welfare professional education offerings through Humane Canada’s Learning & Resource Centre.

Explore Humane Canada's Professional Education