Last week, members of the HSVC team had the incredible opportunity to attend the 2025 Animal Care Expo in Las Vegas. They’ve returned energized, inspired, and ready to implement new ideas to better serve the animals and community of Ventura County. Hosted by Humane World for Animals, this year’s Expo took place from April 15th through 18th at Caesars Forum and welcomed more than 2,500 animal welfare professionals and volunteers from around the world. As the largest international educational conference and trade show of its kind, the Animal Care Expo is a powerhouse of innovation, learning, and collaboration.

With over 100 workshops across 12 specialized tracks, the Expo provided our team with plenty of opportunities for diverse and in-depth training. They explored workshops on topics such as trauma-informed care for shelter animals, reducing stress in high-anxiety dogs, expanding community-based programs, and strengthening adoption and foster processes. HSVC staff were proud to be part of this transformative event, which extended far beyond the walls of shelters to include community outreach, legislative advocacy, and long-term impact strategies for animal welfare. Beyond the classroom, our staff had the chance to connect with colleagues from across the country, exchange ideas, and build lasting professional relationships. The immense exhibit hall was also a highlight, showcasing the latest innovations in shelter technology, enrichment tools, and veterinary care. From software solutions that simplify operations to enrichment products that support behavioral wellness, the event gave us a glimpse into the future of animal sheltering, and we’re excited to be a part of it!

Attending the Animal Care Expo not only provided professional development for our team members but also reminded us of the power of community in this work. Our staff left Las Vegas feeling empowered and connected, with a renewed commitment to our mission and the animals we serve. In the coming weeks, we’ll be working together to incorporate what we’ve learned into our daily practices, ensuring that HSVC remains a place of compassion, growth, and excellence in animal care. We’re incredibly grateful for the opportunity to attend such a meaningful event and represent Ventura County among leaders in the field. We can’t wait to continue learning, growing, and giving every animal the second chance they deserve.