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Many people will claim to have
a ten of years of experience, never mentioning
that seven of those years were with their
own dogs.
What’s the difference between a
behaviorist and a trainer?
A behaviorist and trainer can work together.
Ideally it is recommended to consult a
behaviorist when dealing with dog aggression.
They can rule out health or physical issues.
Then it’s best to follow up working
with a trainer to maintain the recommended
treatment. While these definitions detail
what each specialty is, anyone can
call himself or herself a trainer or a
behaviorist.
Obedience instructor
or trainer
Certified applied animal
behaviorist
Veterinary behaviorist
"Behaviorism"
is a theory
Online
canine professional directories
Obedience Instructors
and Trainers
Anyone can call himself or herself a
trainer.
Generally, the focus is more on the
specifics of animal behavior. They can
help you strengthen communication and
your bond with the dog.
Be wary of any trainer that claims
to be licensed or certified. There are
NO national or state certification or
licensing programs at this time. NADOI
has a lengthy written test that must
be completed and approved before membership
is allowed and
APDT has a wealth of educational
material supplied to its members.
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Certified applied
animal behaviorist
Typically, the focus is on the overall
behavior of the dog. Behaviorists should
have academic credentials in the science
of animal behavior, as well as hands
on experience. Consultant's are certified,
and are active members of professional
organizations. Certification indicates
that the individual has met strict requirements
in terms of educational experience and
professional ethics.
It's also a good idea to make certain
any behaviorist who interests you is
actively engaged in continuing his/her
education. The study of animal behavior
is constantly being updated.
The Animal
Behavior Society requires a master’s
degree or Ph.D., evidence of research,
and publications in the field to obtain
certification.
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Veterinary behaviorist
Veterinary behaviorists must have a
veterinary degree, a residency in veterinary
behavior, and pass a board exam. Veterinary
behaviorists rule out health problems
and are qualified dispense medications
to treat disorders like separation anxiety.
Example
of certification. (http://www.animalbehavior.org/Applied/abspamplet.html).
Many associations display their member
directory and what is needed to become
a member online. See
online dog associations which include
member directories.
"Behaviorism"
is a theory
There has been some confusion between
the kinds of people described above
and those that call themselves "behaviorists"
based on the theory of behaviorism.
Its is impotant to make a distinction
between the two, because while behaviorism,
as an ideal has been rejected by modern
psychologists, there are many in the
dog world who still hold fast to these
ideas. These people tend to look at
"classical" and "operant"
conditioning. While conditioning is
an importnat part of learning and training
is does not account for the whole picture
by a long stretch. Behavioral psychology
throws out any and all concepts of consciousness,
awareness, thought, will, responsibility,
etc., because to the behavioral psychologist
none of these things can be observed
by a second party.
Therefor its important to talk at length
with your consultant about the kinds
of things that he believes in.
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K9aggression.com is committed
to making a positive difference in the
lives of aggressive dogs, their owners
and those around them. By providing education,
inspiration and support through online
communication we hope to promote responsibility,
action, and understanding.
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Copyright k9aggression.com.
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