Description

Join us in recognizing the launch of Medicine Hat College - Continuing Studies' newest program! There will be coffee and muffins, a ribbon cutting at 8:20 am, and a workshop to give you a sneak peak into this new course.

Smart Strategies for Safe Dog Encounters

This interactive, instructor‑led workshop is designed to build a practical understanding of how dogs perceive their environment, including key canine senses and common factors present in dog bite situations. Participants also learn how dogs communicate through body language, movement, and posture, enabling them to quickly assess risk and recognize early signs of stress or escalation.

The workshop focuses on making safe, informed decisions in real work environments. Staff learn how to evaluate risk before approaching a dog, use safe positioning and movement, and avoid common mistakes that increase the likelihood of a bite. Communication strategies for interacting with dog owners and essential awareness around service dogs and public accessibility are also integrated throughout the session.

The final component emphasizes responding to higher-risk or emergency situations. Participants explore what not to do during dog altercations, safe approaches to interrupting dog-to-dog conflict, and appropriate actions to take if a bite occurs. Scenario-based activities, video analysis, and group problem-solving help participants apply their knowledge and leave the training with clear, actionable strategies that support confidence and safety in the field.