Uploaded December 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 day ago

---

If you'd like to earn a certificate of attendance for continuing education, please watch this video on Maddie's University university.maddiesfund.org/products/maddies-insights-opportunities-for-barriers-bias-during-off-site-animal-adoption-events-on-demand

Maddie's® Insights is our ongoing webcast series with practical tips based on current research to help pets and people.

Program Host:
Kelly Duer, Senior Shelter Solutions Specialist, Maddie's Fund

Presenter:
Dr. Lexis Ly, Researcher

This presentation shares findings from a large survey of 484 U.S. animal shelter and rescue organizations on adoption event practices and adopter screening procedures. Viewers will learn about common processes in adoption decision-making, the role of implicit bias in these processes, and how organizational procedures can affect both the speed and equity of pet adoptions. The session highlights areas for animal shelter professionals to reflect on their own adoption practices and consider strategies for reducing barriers while supporting successful matches between people and pets.

Visit Maddie's Pet Forum to comment, follow a discussion or ask questions:
https://maddies.fund/InsightsDecember2025