Webinars are FREE to SCAS members (become a SCAS member for £25 or a Student Member for only £15) and £5 plus booking fee to non-members. Please see our event page to register and book your tickets.

Forthcoming webinars

We are delighted to announce a new series of monthly webinars. Most webinars are free to SCAS members, for non-members there will be a small charge to help SCAS cover the cost of running these.

Past webinars

Missed any of the following webinars? The recordings are available to purchase for £5. Contact us for details at info@scas.org.uk

Shirin Dhabhar, Founder of Canines Can Care, IndiaWednesday 6th February 2025, 6-7pm (UK time):
How Religious and Cultural Influences Shape Canine Behaviour Work in India

Shirin Dhabhar is India’s first certified canine behaviourist and one of the country’s foremost experts in dog behaviour. With over 30 years of experience, she has pioneered the field of behaviour-based dog training in India, bringing positive reinforcement methods to the forefront of dog training in a country where traditional, often harsh, training techniques were more commonly used. Shirin’s extensive work in canine behaviour has made her a key figure in shaping India’s approach to humane dog training. Her pioneering achievements include her certification from the KCAI in Companion Dog Training and Canine Behaviour, making her the only person in Asia to receive the certification. Shirin also founded India’s first canine behaviour and training school, where she has trained and certified hundreds of professionals who have gone on to become successful dog trainers and behaviourists themselves. As an advocate for animal welfare, Shirin has worked tirelessly to bridge the gap between Western behavioural science and Indian cultural practices. She has played a crucial role in raising awareness about the importance of humane, science-backed training techniques, while also understanding the cultural and religious influences on canine behaviour in India. Her work has led to a significant shift in public attitudes towards dogs, and she continues to inspire and educate dog lovers and professionals across the country.

Abstract:
India’s relationship with dogs is unlike any other in the world—deeply influenced by religion, tradition, and cultural beliefs. From the revered dogs of Hindu mythology to the millions of free-roaming street dogs, from the pampered pets included in religious prayers to the breeds that repel demons – canine behaviour work in India is fun and brings its own unique challenges. In this engaging talk, we explore how religious beliefs, societal attitudes, and cultural practices shape the way dogs are perceived, trained, and rehabilitated. We’ll examine how India’s deep-rooted traditions impact dog behavior consulting, why community dogs thrive in a way few Western pet dogs do, and what the world can learn from India’s approach to coexistence and canine behaviour. Whether you’re a behaviourist, trainer, or simply fascinated by the human-animal bond, this session will offer interesting, fresh perspectives on how culture influences canine behaviour and welfare.

Dr Anindita Bhadra, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, India – Wednesday 8th January 2025, 6-7pm (UK time):
Dogs and Humans, A Story of Co-existence

Dr Anindita Bhadra, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata

Abstract:
A large body of research is focused on understanding the ability of dogs to communicate with humans. However, these studies are based on pet dogs, which are raised and cared for by humans. Free-ranging/stray dogs that are present in many parts of the world, on the other hand, depend on humans as resources and interact with people on a regular basis. Hence, they can provide interesting insights into the nature of dogs and give pointers to how dogs might have evolved from wolf-like ancestors to become man’s best friend. We have been engaged in studying the free-ranging dogs in India for 15 years, delving into their ecology, behaviour and cognitive abilities. I will give a brief overview of our understanding of how free-ranging dogs survive in the human-dominated urban environment, co-existing with our species.