Show cover of Animal Training Academy: Making Ripples

Animal Training Academy: Making Ripples

A show highlighting the animal training subject matter experts that make up the Animal Training Academy membership community

Tracks

In this episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we are joined by the wonderful Kristi Martin, a behavior specialist with a diverse background in both the zoo and veterinary fields. Kristi shares her journey from caring for a wide variety of species in zoos to transitioning into the veterinary field, where she specialized in behavior care. She talks about her current work at the Richmond Animal Behavior Wellness Center, where she assists a veterinary behaviorist and runs a DigiTherm thermal scanner to help assess pain in behavior patients. Kristi’s expertise shines as she discusses her experiences working with animals, including the shift from zoo work to veterinary care, and how her passion for learning has driven her to continually expand her skill set. From handling complex cases of fear, anxiety, and aggression in pets, to integrating the latest technology in veterinary behavior, Kristi’s insights offer valuable lessons for both pet owners and animal care professionals. Listeners will be inspired by Kristi's approach to simplifying behavior modification plans, her dedication to making training practical for pet owners, and her emphasis on the importance of checking for pain or discomfort as a potential cause of behavior issues. With her varied experiences, Kristi provides a refreshing perspective on animal behavior and welfare. https://www.abwellnesscenter.com/

12/5/24 • 58:04

In this engaging episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we welcome Juliette Nash, Community Animal Training Manager at San Diego Humane Society. From her early childhood dream of working with animals to a career dedicated to animal behavior, Juliette shares her inspiring journey. With a Master’s degree in killer whale social behavior and vocal learning, Juliette's transition into the world of animal welfare led her to develop innovative training programs for both cats and dogs, including unique classes like Shy Cat training and a Pet Training Assistance Fund. Juliette's passion for cooperative, choice-based training, particularly with fearful and poorly socialized animals, shines through as she discusses the importance of meeting animals where they are and using accessible language to empower pet owners. We delve into the behind-the-scenes development of her behavior programs, how she balances research with hands-on work, and her continuous efforts to support animals and their families. This episode is filled with practical advice for trainers and pet owners alike, and heartwarming stories, including a moving account of a cat named Magneto who, through Juliette’s guidance, transformed from a fearful hoarding rescue to a beloved, affectionate companion. Links: www.sdhumane.org/training www.sdhumane.org/trainingclasses www.sdhumane.org/trainingvideos www.sdhumane.org/trainingarticles www.sdhumane.org/trainerdirectory  

10/31/24 • 51:55

In this fun episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we welcome Teisha Rolph from Behaviour Antics, a passionate dog trainer and behaviour nerd. Teisha shares her unique journey into animal training, from growing up surrounded by animals to studying animal and veterinary biosciences at university, where she fell in love with the science of behaviour. Inspired by her mentors, Dr. Richard Zann and Jenny Wilcox, Teisha has since built a diverse training career focused on empathy and individualised care. Throughout this episode, Teisha delves into her work with anxious dogs and their human counterparts, emphasising the importance of moderating expectations and creating a safe environment for both. She shares heartwarming stories about her Finnish Lapphunds, Asgard and Seda, illustrating how each animal’s unique needs can influence a trainer’s approach. Her experiences with reactivity, cooperative care, and competitive dog sports offer valuable insights for all trainers. Teisha also reflects on her journey of personal growth through her pets, including ferrets and a cat, and how they have taught her the importance of patience and understanding. With a love for creating educational content and collaborating with fellow trainers like Jose Gomes from Train Me Please, Teisha continues to inspire the animal training community with her approach of knowledge and empathy. This episode is filled with practical advice, inspiring stories, and a reminder that behaviour training is not always linear - sometimes, it's about embracing patience over pressure. Behaviour Antics: www.facebook.com/behaviourantics www.instagram.com/behaviourantics https://www.youtube.com/@BehaviourAntics behaviourantics@outlook.com   Train Me Please collabs: Teach a Chin Rest for Dog Medical Behaviours  The Ultimate Guide To Your Puppy's First Day Home

10/3/24 • 42:53

In this engaging episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we sit down with Pernilla Elving, a remarkable individual whose life has been deeply intertwined with animals. From her childhood on a small farm surrounded by sheep, cows, and horses to her evolution into a Centered Riding instructor and positive reinforcement trainer, Pernilla's journey is a testament to the power of compassion, patience, and understanding in animal training. Pernilla shares her story of how an unruly horse named Rockefeller became a lifelong companion and a catalyst for her pursuit of gentler training methods. Her journey didn’t stop there; she continued to expand her expertise through formal education, earning degrees in sociology and human behavior, and delving into animal behavior through university studies and hands-on experience. Throughout the conversation, Pernilla provides valuable insights into the importance of building trust with animals, drawing from her experience with a young, injured horse named Carizma, who was once labeled "dangerous" by veterinarians. Her commitment to understanding and improving animal welfare is evident in every story she shares. Listeners will also learn about Pernilla’s current endeavors, including her involvement with the Animal Training Academy and her continued education in scentwork for horses and the Horse Trainer Year program.  Whether you're an animal lover, a trainer, or simply curious about the intricacies of behavior, this episode with Pernilla Elving is filled with heartfelt stories, educational insights, and a deep appreciation for the human-animal connection. Link to where people can get in touch https://www.instagram.com/vaderstadskattegard/ https://www.facebook.com/centreradridning https://skattegarden.n.nu/ pernilla.elving@telia.com  

9/5/24 • 61:07

In this inspiring episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we welcome Carmaleta Aufderheide, an accomplished positive reinforcement trainer and conflict resolution expert. With a Master’s degree in Conflict Resolution (CRES) and certifications including KPA-CTP, CPDT-KA, and CSAT, Carm brings a wealth of knowledge and unique insights into her work with dogs, particularly those dealing with separation anxiety. Carm shares her journey, which began with academic research into the restorative impacts of prison animal programming. Her work with incarcerated individuals and dogs led to a profound appreciation for the human-animal bond and its potential for rehabilitation and healing. Through her experiences, Carm has developed a compassionate approach to dog training, focusing on creating safe and supportive environments for both dogs and their families. In this episode, Carm discusses her transition from conflict resolution and mediation to becoming a specialist in canine separation anxiety. She delves into the challenges and rewards of this niche, offering valuable tips for managing difficult conversations with pet owners and addressing the unique needs of anxious dogs. Carm also highlights her upcoming presentation at the 2024 Aggression in Dogs Conference, where she will further explore these topics. Join us as Carmaleta Aufderheide shares her passion for using positive reinforcement and conflict resolution techniques to improve the lives of dogs and their families. Whether you're a trainer, pet owner, or simply interested in the power of the human-animal connection, this episode is filled with enlightening stories and practical advice. Links; Website: https://www.northstartraining.info/ Email: carm@northstartraining.info https://aggressivedog.com/conference/

8/1/24 • 64:19

In this episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we are delighted to welcome Robin Horemans, the owner of Parrot SOS, to share her expertise and passion for avian behavior and training. Robin has dedicated her career to improving the lives of pet bird owners and their feathered companions by providing quality education materials that enhance communication and bonding. Robin's journey began in 1998 at the Hagen's Avicultural Research Institute (HARI), and over the years, she has accumulated a wealth of knowledge and certifications, including being a Certified Parrot Behavior Consultant with the IAABC, a Certified Professional Bird Trainer with the IATCB, and a Certified Training Partner with the Karen Pryor Academy. She is also an Accredited Dog Trainer with IAABC. In this episode, Robin shares her fascinating story of growing up with animals, her early experiences with budgies, and her academic pursuit of a degree in biology. She discusses the challenges and rewards of working with birds, the importance of foundation skills in bird training, and how these skills can prevent behavioral issues and rehoming. Robin also delves into the specifics of her training methodology, including her innovative approach to online classes and private consultations, which have broadened her reach and impact. Robin's dedication to evidence-based behavior change shines through as she describes her work with both pet and foster birds, highlighting her problem-solving strategies and the unique needs of avian companions. This episode is packed with valuable insights for bird owners and trainers alike, emphasizing the importance of positive reinforcement and continuous learning. Join us as Robin Horemans shares her journey, expertise, and practical tips for building stronger relationships with your pet birds. Whether you are a seasoned bird owner or new to the avian world, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Links Website >>> https://parrotsos.com FaceBook >>> http://facebook.com/parrotsos Instagram >>> https://www.instagram.com/ParrotSOS TikTok >>> https://www.tiktok.com/@parrotsos YouTube >>> https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ_47iXLrXXdiyEWAMcF2Gw

7/4/24 • 69:03

In this episode of the Making Ripples podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Sarah Hedderly, a distinguished dog trainer specializing in Border Collies. With a wealth of experience working exclusively with this breed, Sarah provides a unique and in-depth perspective on the nuances and challenges specific to Border Collies. Prior to her specialization, Sarah worked as a McTimoney Animal Chiropractor and ran in-person dog training classes based on the Control Unleashed system [from Leslie Mcdevitt]. Sarah's journey with her own Border Collies, including the sensitive Mini, the intellectually demanding Ding, the driven Beau, and the energetic Sparkles, has profoundly shaped her training methods. These personal experiences have honed her ability to identify and address breed-specific behaviors, making her an invaluable resource for Border Collie owners. Throughout the episode, Sarah discusses her early love for animals, influenced by her grandfather's working sheepdogs, and how her professional path evolved from chiropractic work to specialized dog training. She shares insights into the unique behavioral traits of Border Collies, such as their herding instincts and sensitivity to movement, and explains how understanding these traits is crucial for effective training. Sarah also delves into the transition from in-person to online training, highlighting the benefits of continuous support and accessibility for clients worldwide. She offers practical advice for managing common Border Collie behaviors, such as impulse control and appropriate herding, emphasizing the importance of mental stimulation and tailored training approaches. Join us as Sarah Hedderly shares her expertise, passion, and practical tips for working with this exciting and energetic dog breeds. Whether you are a seasoned trainer or a new Border Collie owner, this episode is packed with valuable insights and strategies to help you and your dog thrive. LINKS http://www.dingbattdogtraining.co.uk  https://www.facebook.com/sarahhedderlydingbattdogtraining  https://www.instagram.com/dingbatt_dog_training/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dingbattdogtraining  Youtube  @dingbattdogtraining8763  

6/6/24 • 54:20

Welcome to another episode of the Making Ripples podcast, where we explore the journeys and insights of the amazing trainers that make up the Animal Training Academy Membership. In this episode, we are thrilled to host Emma Cook, a progressive dog groomer and trainer from Adelaide, South Australia. Emma, the heart behind The Funky Foxhound, shares her compassionate approach to dog grooming and training, where each session is tailored to the needs of dogs who find grooming challenging. Emma delves into her personal and professional journey, illustrating how her childhood experiences shaped her compassionate, holistic approach to animal care. By fostering an environment of trust and safety, she ensures that the dogs she works with feel empowered and secure, thus transforming grooming from a stressful chore to a positive, enriching experience. Throughout our conversation, Emma highlights the significance of positive-reinforcement training, cooperative care, and the critical role of autonomy in animal grooming. Her work not only enhances the grooming experience for her canine clients but also educates other professionals on the benefits of fear-free practices. Join us as Emma Cook shares valuable insights into creating a more humane and responsive approach to dog grooming, proving that understanding and patience can truly make ripples in the world of animal care. Links; The Funky Foxhound: www.thefunkyfoxhound.com www.facebook.com/thefunkyfoxhound www.instagram.com/thefunkyfoxhound  Canine Behavioural School: www.caninebehaviouralschool.com.au www.facebook.com/caninebehaviouralschool  Fear Free Pets: https://fearfreepets.com/

5/2/24 • 64:56

In this insightful episode of Making Ripples, host Shelly Wood welcomes Dr. Rabea Christmann, a distinguished biologist and passionate advocate for animal welfare from Germany. With a rich background in search and rescue dog work and a pioneering force in farm laboratory animal welfare, Dr. Christmann shares her journey towards enhancing animal lives through positive reinforcement and enrichment activities. Diving into the heart of animal training, Dr. Christmann elaborates on her innovative approaches to cooperative care training across a variety of farm animals, including chickens, sheep, goats, pigs, and cattle. Her dedication to fostering an environment of well-being and respect for animals shines through as she discusses her work in educational settings, training laboratory staff, and students in humane and effective animal handling techniques. The conversation flows into the realms of animal welfare within research settings and Dr. Christmann touches on the ethical pillars of replacement, reduction, and refinement. A highlight of the episode is Dr. Christmann's recount of a groundbreaking project involving the training of 20 cows for medical tasks. This initiative not only showcases the feasibility and benefits of positive reinforcement in livestock management but also underlines the importance of finding suitable motivators and maintaining the safety of both animals and trainers. Concluding with a powerful message on the impact of positive training methods and environmental enrichment, Dr. Christmann invites listeners to reflect on the transformative potential of kindness and science-based techniques in the realm of animal training. Join Shelly and Dr. Christmann for an episode that promises to inspire, educate, and perhaps even challenge the way we think about animal welfare and training. E-Mail: rabea.christmann@outlook.de  

4/4/24 • 50:03

In this episode, we delve into the multifaceted world of animal behavior with Zara Jackson, a distinguished expert in the field. Zara takes us through her inspiring journey, from her early days working at a zoo to launching a successful dog training business. Zara shares invaluable insights into the complexities of working with a variety of animal species, emphasising the importance of recognising individual differences and the challenges they present. Zara offers practical advice for those aspiring to work with animals, highlighting the benefits of education, volunteering, and internships. The conversation also covers Zara's innovative approaches to overcoming common training and grooming challenges, particularly in managing dog reactivity and aging-related changes in behavior. Zara's work with African crested porcupines showcases her ability to adapt training methods to suit the unique needs of different species, demonstrating her awesome commitment to animal welfare and behavior modification. Zara Jackson's extensive background in animal behavior, coupled with her certifications and academic achievements, positions this episdoe as a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone interested in animal training and behaviour. LINKS www.tarkadogtraining.co.uk facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zaradogtraining  

2/29/24 • 56:22

In this insightful episode of the 'Making Ripples' podcast, hosted by Shelly Wood of the Animal Training Academy, we dive into the multifaceted world of animal training with our esteemed guest, Jess Ghali. Jess, hailing from Marulan, Australia, brings a wealth of experience from her journey in the field of animal care and training. Jess, who transitioned from aspiring to be a zookeeper to becoming a dog trainer, and eventually a specialist in nosework, shares her unique story of resilience and adaptation. We explore the highs and lows of her career, including her pivot from general administration to finding her true calling with dogs, and how the pandemic played a critical role in reshaping her professional path. This episode touches upon the emotional dimensions of animal care professions, a topic close to Jess's heart. Jess candidly discusses the challenges of compassion fatigue and burnout, issues that are sometimes overlooked in the animal care community. Her passion for addressing these emotional aspects and providing support is evident throughout the conversation. We also delve into the practical aspects of Jess's work, from her innovative 'Free Sniff Fridays' at Serenity Scent Work to her approach in managing behavioral issues in dogs through nosework. Jess highlights the therapeutic aspects of nosework, emphasizing its importance in creating a harmonious relationship between dogs and their owners. Join us for this episode of 'Making Ripples' as Jess Ghali enlightens us with her experiences, struggles, and triumphs in the realm of animal training, emphasizing the importance of empathy, understanding, and continuous learning in this ever-evolving field. Jess's journey is not just about training animals, but also about nurturing a community of compassionate and informed animal care professionals. Links Serenity Dog Training Official Website: Visit serenitydogtraining.com.au for comprehensive information about Jess Ghali's services, training programs, and her unique approach to dog training and nosework. Serenity Dog Training on Facebook: Follow Jess on Facebook for the latest updates, training tips, and community stories at Serenity Scent Work Facebook Page. Serenity Dog Training on Instagram: Get a visual glimpse into the world of Serenity Dog Training. Follow Jess's journey on Instagram at Serenity Scent Work Instagram. Serenity Scent Work on YouTube: Watch engaging videos and tutorials on nosework training by Jess at Serenity Scent Work YouTube Channel. Colleen Pelar's Podcast: Discover insightful discussions on animal training and care in Colleen Pelar's podcast. Listen to episodes featuring Jess and other experts at Colleen Pelar's Podcast.

2/1/24 • 47:59

Join host Shelley Wood on The Making Ripples Podcast Show as she delves into the fascinating world of bird of prey training with Kimberly Lundy from the Ojai Raptor Center. Based in Ventura, California, Kimberly's journey from volunteer to lead trainer exemplifies her commitment to avian welfare and innovative training methods. This episode offers a glimpse into the transformative shift towards empowerment training at the center, a change that Kimberly played a crucial role in during the pandemic shutdown. This episode is rich with stories, challenges, and successes in avian training. Kimberly shares her experiences in retraining older ambassadors under new paradigms, highlighting the importance of understanding animal behavior and learner-centric approaches. Listeners will gain invaluable insights into the nuances of bird training, inspired by Kimberly's extensive background in behavioral ecology and applied behavioral analysis. This episode promises to enhance your knowledge and skills, encouraging a positive impact on both animal and human learners. Links etc... Kimberly Lundy E-mail: lundy.kj@gmail.com Kimberly Lundy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kimberly.lundy.7 Ojai Raptor Center Website https://www.ojairaptorcenter.org/ Ojai Raptor Center Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ojairaptorcenter/ Ojai Raptor Center Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/theojairaptorcenter Ojai Raptor Center TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@ojairaptorcenter Avian Behavior International https://avian-behavior.org/ International Association of Avian Trainers & Educators https://iaate.org/ Susan Friedman, PhD, Living & Learning with Animals: The Fundamental Principles and Procedures of Teaching and Learning https://www.behaviorworks.org/htm/lla_professional_overview.html Natural Encounters, Inc., Training and Education Center (NEI TEC) https://naturalencounters.com/nei-tec/ International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council, Basic Wildlife Rehabilitation Course https://theiwrc.org/courses/ Ken Ramirez, The Eye of The Trainer: Animal Training, Transformation, and Trust. First Edition. Waltham: Sunshine Books, Inc., 2020 >>> https://shop.clickertraining.com/products/the-eye-of-the-trainer-animal-training-transformation-and-trust?variant=31879440924810

1/4/24 • 49:17

Venturing into the world of training a different species - like donkeys - often presents a mix of complexity and stress as we attempt to adapt our existing skills to unfamiliar territory. Therefore, this episode, featuring our special guest, Cynthia Minden, aims to shed light on these challenges. Cynthia is a passionate advocate for positive reinforcement and a seasoned donkey trainer. In this episode, she shares her valuable insights and experiences to guide and inspire us. Cynthia's story begins in 2002 when two donkeys arrived unexpectedly at her farm on Denman Island, BC. This marked the start of an incredible journey, taking her from traditional training methods to the transformative world of clicker training. She has learned from renowned experts and continues to deepen her understanding and bond with these magnificent creatures. This episode is packed with valuable insights, but let's highlight three key takeaways you won't want to miss: 1. Positive Reinforcement in Animal Training: Cynthia's transformative journey from traditional to positive reinforcement methods in donkey training showcases the power of positive reinforcement and trust-building. She shares how clicker training revolutionised her approach, leading to stronger, more respectful relationships with donkeys. 2. Understanding and Appreciating Donkeys: Dive into the emotional world of donkeys with Cynthia's insights. Her experiences reveal the depth of their personalities and the importance of recognising their unique communicative nature, enriching your perspective on these often misunderstood animals. 3. Challenges and Strategies in Donkey Training: Learn practical solutions to common training hurdles. Cynthia discusses her strategies for managing persistent behaviours, emphasising the importance of patience, detailed planning, and innovative training techniques, including the use of video footage for review and improvement. This episode is more than just Cynthia’s story; it's a guide to navigating the complexities of our roles as trainers. By listening to Cynthia's experiences, you'll gain new knowledge and confidence to help you tackle your own training challenges. Links; www.cynthiamindenartsandequine.ca www.cynthiaminden.com Photo credit: Bellaphoto, Courtenay BC

11/30/23 • 53:34

Synopsis: Animal Training Academy's Special Rabbit Episode For those dedicated to elevating their animal training skills with a focus on the most positive and least intrusive methods, this episode is especially relevant for professionals working with rabbits. The Challenge: Delving into training a new species, like rabbits, presents unique challenges. These challenges can lead to stress and frustration. However, our mission remains clear: Empower each trainer to make a marked positive difference in the lives of the animals they work with [in this case, rabbits!]. Your Guide: Introducing Thea Harting, a seasoned behaviour consultant and rabbit training instructor. Residing in New York City, she has two decades of experience living alongside rabbits and a commendable decade-long dedication to rabbit rescue and shelter work. One of her specialised skills involves facilitating rabbit bonding sessions, effectively guiding new rabbit owners through the intricate bonding processes. 3 Key Takeaways from the Episode [of many]: Emphasising Enrichment and Agency: Thea elaborates on techniques that place importance on enrichment, agency, consent, and resilience for rabbit care and training. Understanding Rabbit Behavior and Bonding: The unique behavioural characteristics of rabbits are explored, highlighting the challenges and methods to establish a bond with these special learners. The Value of Applied Animal Behavior: Gain insights into the broader field of Applied Animal Behavior and its relevance to rabbit training, emphasising the importance of continuous education and seeking mentorship. The Goal: By understanding and addressing the intricacies of rabbit behaviour, the objective is to mitigate feelings of overwhelm and uncertainty. In doing so, trainers can confidently approach rabbit training, equipped with the knowledge to make a positive impact in the lives of these animals. Tune into the episode to gain invaluable insights from Thea Harting, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the world of rabbit training, behaviour and care. Instagram @badassbunnyrescuer  website badassbunnyrescuer.com.

11/2/23 • 51:31

At Animal Training Academy, we know you want to master your animal training skills using a force-free approach. And we recognize that you're not just any trainer. Instead, you're someone driven to elevate the confidence of dogs, ensuring they lead a life rich with meaningful activities and training exercises. However, this journey is not without its challenges. High-energy working breeds, in particular, require consistent mental and physical stimulation to sustain their confidence and overall well-being. Like many trainers, you might often find yourself at a crossroads, seeking effective yet gentle methods to boost your dog's confidence. This task becomes even more challenging when dealing with dogs that have physical limitations or fears, leading to feelings of stress, frustration, and overwhelming concern. Enter Jessica, your guide for this episode. A dedicated dog trainer since 2012, Jessica is here to support you. Drawing from her personal journey living with her own fearful dog, Jessica provides insights that come from a place of deep understanding and compassion. Her expertise, honed through one-on-one consultations, group sessions, and online classes, offers a plethora of opportunities. With an academic background in political science and journalism, Jessica has written books to aid dog owners like you and remains a valued contributor to the Tromplo community. Throughout the episode, Jessica imparts a wealth of insights tailored just for you to help build dogs confidence. Here are three key takeaways: Scent Work, Tracking, and Agility: Introduce dogs to activities such as scent work, tracking, and agility to bolster their self-assurance. Safe Before Challenging: Before exposing dogs to demanding scenarios, ensure they're grounded in more secure settings. Practical Training: Incorporate enjoyable simple behaviors, like teaching a dog to shut a cupboard, into your dog's training routine.  Eager to learn more? Hit play on the podcast episode!  Our goal is for you to sidestep feelings of embarrassment, overwhelm, and burnout. Instead, with Jessica's guidance, your dog will emerge more confident, happier, and adept at navigating a range of situations, from the serenity of a forest to the bustling city streets. They'll thrive in a life filled with activities tailored to their mental and physical needs.  As for you? Revel in the satisfaction of newfound skills and knowledge, poised to make your biggest possible positive impact on the lives of all the animal and human learners you work with!  Links: motiveradehundar.se https://www.instagram.com/motiveradehundar/  https://www.facebook.com/MotiveradeHundar Jessica Mann on Tromplo >>> https://tromplo.com/instructor/jessica-mann/ Videos & tips shared from Jessica - Search and retrieve. This is my go-to game, and you can make it as easy or hard as your learner needs. Here are some of the beginner steps (you might need to start closer!) https://youtu.be/GLftPjJbLZY Next step would be to do a "blind" search - placing the toy without him seeing and then add more objects. Make sure the dog is coming to you as soon as he's got the object- you don't want him to go searching for the next /switching toys. This is so much easier on the body than fetching. This can be done in a long line, in a fenced yard and even indoors if needed.  - searching in water. Same as above but in water. Start in shallow water and then deeper. I use hockey pucks! https://youtu.be/sq5VK-6-644  - all kinds of games with an object, such as a traffic cone. I reward all interaction, and this is such a good confidence builder as well. https://youtu.be/z0fjq-BH20Q  - All kinds of dog parkour - jumping up, going under, balancing on things... https://youtu.be/MzHDKYjXH7s - a little more advanced parkour. Make sure to use a harness so you can support the dog as needed! https://youtu.be/r3Ga1kyuZoY - Cavaletti is such a good controlled movement too. Make sure you use very low obstacles, to work slowly and that the dog has his spine horizontal - not looking up to see the treat. You can work in a straight line as in the film, or on a half circle. Make sure to work both directions. https://youtu.be/8hEeL4H-g0c

10/5/23 • 54:44

Danielle Winkelman - Intrepid Animal Learning At Animal Training Academy, we understand that you aim to master your animal training skills using a force-free approach. However, we also recognise that this journey has challenges, especially when dealing with complex behaviours, such as those labelled as reactive. Trainers can often feel overwhelmed and need help addressing these challenging behaviours effectively. Enter Danielle Winkelman. While she boasts an impressive background as a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner, an Associate Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, a Fear Free Certified Professional, and a Puppy Start Right Instructor, Danielle remains a humble lifelong learner. Her dedication to continuous growth and her hands-on experience with various species make her not just an authority but also a relatable guide for those on a similar journey of learning and enhancement. In this podcast episode, Danielle talks about many things, including board and train methods to help work with reactive dogs - Here are three valuable insights [of many that] she shared: The importance of a controlled environment: Ensuring safe exposure to triggers. Consistency and Structure: Providing regular practice and reinforcement. Socialisation Opportunities: Facilitating controlled interactions with other dogs. So, tune into this insightful episode, where Danielle shares her experiences in the field to learn about the above [and much much more]. At ATA, our goal is clear: to help you avoid embarrassment, overwhelm, and burnout. Instead, the focus is on building resilience to setbacks, getting organised, and growing your training skills and knowledge. In essence, the aim is to instil confidence in you as a trainer, ensuring you lead a fulfilling life and positively impacting the lives of the animal and human learners you work with. NOTE:  In the episode, Danielle mentions that she doesn't identify as a crossover trainer; however, she would like to be sure to point out that she loves and admires those who do identify as crossover trainers. Links Website >>> https://intrepidanimallearning.com/ FaceBook >>> https://www.facebook.com/AnimalLearning Instagram >>> https://www.instagram.com/intrepidanimallearning/ Email >>> support@intrepidanimallearning.com Video of Em & Comet >>> https://youtu.be/KBNX7bM11fo

8/31/23 • 51:36

As someone aspiring to master their animal training skills using a force-free approach, you might find yourself feeling trapped or overwhelmed by a dog's fearful or even aggressive behaviour. However, you can draw inspiration from the story of Havoc, a dog who successfully overcame his fears of handling and veterinary procedures with the help of his human, Natalie. Havoc has faced a variety of medical challenges requiring him to become accustomed to different procedures—an understandably complex situation. Nevertheless, through consistent training and the application of cooperative care techniques, Havoc has learned to trust the process. This significant transformation was largely influenced by Havoc’s human, Natalie, from K9 Concepts Dog Training, a specialist in cooperative care training. Natalie's approach aims to strengthen the bond between a dog and its guardian, promoting patience and confidence in both. With her emphasis on communication and gentleness, she fosters a deep level of trust between dogs and their handlers, leading to lasting behavioural improvements. The key to Havoc's success lay in consistency, patience, and the use of positive reinforcement and force-free techniques. Although his transition from fear to trust didn't happen overnight, persistent dedication eventually resulted in Havoc willingly participating in medical procedures. This not only brings relief to his guardian but also exemplifies the transformative potential of patience and consistent training. With appropriate guidance, patience, and consistency, you can also achieve significant transformations with the non-human learners in your life. We want to see you avoid embarrassment, overwhelm and burnout. Instead, we want to see you build resilience to setbacks, get more organised, and grow your training skills and knowledge. In short, we want to see you enjoy confidence in yourself as a trainer and lead a fulfilling life, positively impacting the lives of the animal and human learners you work with. Links: Facebook >>> https://www.facebook.com/K9ConceptsDogTraining/ Youtube >>> https://www.youtube.com/@k9conceptsdogtraining/ Videos; Ear drops journey https://youtu.be/N0nfwmkUf-0 Injection journey https://youtu.be/cvdWUX_h-YY

8/3/23 • 61:57

Linda Randall, DVM, KPA-CTP, LLA, TagTeach Level 3 Owner: One Smart Dog, Seville OH, USA Linda sold her veterinary hospital in 2019, where she had practiced as an ABVP Board Certified Diplomate, Companion Animals, for 20 years, and also worked with exotics. She then opened One Smart Dog, a full-service dog training facility, the month Ohio shut down for the pandemic in 2020, which, she says, was “exciting”. Linda has been engaged in dog sports, obedience, agility, and field trials with her Flat Coated Retrievers, and sheep herding, agility, and Scent with her Border Collies. Her passion for behavior grew from learning about training from a variety of trainers (she is a cross-over trainer) and realizing that although all the trainers she worked with felt they had a method that worked, only a few took the time to develop insight into why animals did what they did, or had the curiosity needed to want to understand what function their behavior had. Most had a “top-down” method of working with dogs which, the more she learned about the science of behavior, she found uncomfortable. And then: a friend came back from one of the first clicker conferences and talked about clicker training.  Linda couldn’t get enough information about it. She started attending positive reinforcement conferences such as Clicker Expo and taking classes (Living and Learning With Animals is a favorite!) and joining intentional R+ communities such as the Animal Training Academy.   Linda works hard to maintain a positive presence in her daily interactions with friends, clients, students, and instructors. It can be difficult to run a full-service dog training facility, maintain her relief veterinary business and find time to do webinars and conferences, but Linda feels strongly the effort is worth it.  She especially finds joy in working with kids who want to learn to train their dogs. With their increased ability at a young age to have excellent hand-eye coordination (hello cellphones and video games!), kids make wonderful, compassionate trainers. She believes that engaging with another species and working in age-appropriate spaces helps develop compassion for others and encourages acceptance of diversity.  Linda has produced a 4-hour series on Kids, Race, and Positive Reinforcement for the Heart Album and, along with her co-host Kathie Nurena, MD, KPA-CTP, NACSW Cert. Instructor, Linda has spoken at The Convergence of Human Behavior, Animal Training, and Technology (CHATT) conference, The Lemonade Conference, and is speaking this fall at APDT. Linda and Kathie discuss Trauma Informed and Trauma Assumed Care in animals and people, with an emphasis on the intersection of animal training, human caregivers, and behavior. As a Black woman in the majority white professions of veterinary medicine and dog training, Linda has had experiences that have been life-changing and soul-searching at the same time. She is inspired to support others who have ventured into these worlds and to seek a deeper understanding of why we do what we do and why we believe what we believe. Behavior can help, and it can hurt, both the giver and the receiver. In a world of increasing compartmentalization of groups, and anger directed towards those considered “other”, she hopes encouraging a behavioral view and positive reinforcement interactions will, in some small, but tangible way, make a difference. As Linda says: we have to try. For links visit here >>> https://atamember.com/2023/07/06/linda-randall/

7/6/23 • 61:44

Emma Almquist received her bachelor’s degree in biology with a specialization in ethology in 2017. After graduating she has continued learning about animal behavior through conferences, as well as various private and academic courses. Her business Djurvetologen has offered puppy classes, conference talks, training consults and much more since 2016. These days the business has transitioned to offering mainly online lectures and courses. Emma’s goal is to make humans and animals understand each other better. After hearing personal stories about compassion fatigue and burnout from almost every colleague in the animal care industry, Emma decided to add mindfulness teacher to her CV in 2020. She enjoys demystifying mindfulness by using behavior analysis. Since becoming a mindfulness teacher, she has been guiding meditation classes and teaching mindfulness to animal care professionals. Emma lives in southern Sweden with a dog, rabbits, and rodents – as well as a human partner. For links visit HERE >>> https://atamember.com/2023/06/01/emma-almquist/   

6/1/23 • 58:10

Sandra Tigerlind is a dog behaviourist, dog trainer and enrichment specialist etc. (www.hunddjuristen.se) from Sweden who has worked full time with dogs for the past 13 years. She specializes in fearful, insecure and traumatized dogs and has a soft spot for adopted or rehomed dogs. So much so that she started the first and only dog sanctuary in the country, that focuses mostly on the dogs that usually never get a family, like senior dogs, special needs dogs or traumatized dogs. It is both a passion and a way of life, to see the dogs that are the most vulnerable and yet unwanted, find their way to the sanctuary, living safe and loved until their last breath.    When the war started in Ukraine and the emergency for animals in war zones became apparent, Sandra was instantly determined to help in some way. Now, the tenth aid relief journey is ahead and the suffering animals have received more than 20 tonnes of food, thousands of doses of pain medication, carriers for refugees with animals and a lot more, all thanks to devoted followers and animal lovers like yourself. Our charity Black Dog Foundation also rescued and found new loving homes in Sweden for around 30 dogs, of course the majority were seniors, close to heart! Running the sanctuary is a full time commitment, but even so, we made time and space for ten trips for the suffering in Ukraine. We have learned a lot during this heartbreaking year, our motto has always been "it is never too late for love" and as a trainer Sandra’s mindset is "empathy is key", and here we are, combining it all with our love and empathy for animals and dog owners alike, across the borders.   For links visit here >>> https://atamember.com/2023/05/04/sandra-tigerlind/

5/4/23 • 67:23

Michelle Mullins CDBC is the owner of Honest To Dog, LLC in Richmond, Virginia, USA and serves as the IAABC Foundation president. Michelle has been training dogs for 20 years and all of her work has the same objective—developing long, enriching relationships between pets and their people. In addition to her work in the pet product industry, she has worked with private clients for basic manners, puppy socialization, cooperative care training and through aggression issues. Michelle works closely with other trainers, certified behavior consultants and veterinary professionals.  She is an IAABC Certified Dog Behavior Consultant(CDBC), holds certificates as a Karen Pryor Academy (KPA) Certified Training Partner (CTP), a Fear Free Certified Animal Trainer, TAGteach Level One Certified and has completed the Master Course – Aggression In Dogs. Currently, Michelle focuses on providing educational content, presentations and mentorships for pet professional organizations including the IAABC Foundation, Fear Free Pets, APDT and as a guest speaker at Ohio State University. She contributes to and is available for conferences, panels, podcasts and consultations both on behavior cases and pet product development. She is dedicated to the IAABC Foundation mission to inspire, develop, and provide quality, evidence-based education, research and charitable activities in animal training and behavior. For links, visit here >>> https://atamember.com/2023/04/06/michelle-mullins/  

4/6/23 • 61:46

Linda has always felt a strong connection with animals. Her early interest in behavior studies quickly paired with her love of animals to build a career in animal training that has spanned more than 40-years and is still going strong. Linda was in the right place at the right time to attend behavior & training related classes through the Life Learn Program at the Ontario Veterinary Collage, University of Guelph, Canada. She considers herself very fortunate to have attended many in person clinics with Karen Pryor as she was presenting, with Gary Wilks,  in the late 1980’s. Over her long career Linda has attended countless clinics, webinars, and workshops. She reads extensively and is always seeking opportunities for further education, knowledge, and growth.  Linda’s motto in life is “Only Connect” and continually seeks deeper understanding and abilities in this goal with both people and animals.  When not working Linda attends Master Classes on a diverse range of subjects spanning from rocket science to resilience, to storytelling. She studies music, unrealistically hoping to be a great jazz musician one day, she spends quality time with her dogs, and takes every opportunity to spend time in the wilderness hiking and kayaking. For links check here >>> https://atamember.com/2023/03/02/linda-brodzik/   

3/2/23 • 60:27

Tjadina lives in Germany with her husband, their three cats, Fenrir, Arktos and Lumos and their two horses, Aron and Quiero. Her initial interest for training animals came as a child, seeing animals act in movies and being at awe at how well they were trained. But movie animals were mostly dogs or horses, and they only had a family cat (and cats can't be trained...), so time was spent waiting for the magical day a dog would arrive. That day never came. So, several years later, still waiting for that dog, Tjadina started training the other animals who had come into her life, cats and horses. What started out as a bit of trick training turned into a wish for “more”. For the horses this meant less tack and more “liberty”. Realizing that “liberty” didn’t equal happiness led Tjadina to start her journey into positive reinforcement training.  Still not having a dog, but now having two young cats, Tjadina started to question why cats can’t also do the things that dogs do – why is it that everyone feels that cats are untrainable? Well, she quickly found out. Cats are perfectly capable of learning, they just tolerate a little less nonsense from us humans than many other domesticated animals do The cats took Tjadina from being the trainer to being the learner, and the more she learnt that training (and life) was less about telling someone to do something and more about collaborating and about meeting the learner’s need and wishes, the more successful training became. Through her training as a veterinarian she has also developed a special interest in cooperative care, as she was put off by how many animals are forced to endure procedures they are clearly unhappy with and felt that there had to be ways to make the vet visit less terrifying for the animals. For links and videos mentioned in the episode, click here >>> https://atamember.com/2023/02/02/tjadina-klein/

2/2/23 • 50:47

Mickella Ben Tovim has been a lifelong animal lover and horse professional currently living among 2 miniature horses, 2 ponies, a mare and 2 dogs. For the past 8 years Mickella attributes her major life change to the arrival of a Miniature horse she named Toto, together they set on a journey of exploration and magical discoveries, one that changed their lives and the other members of her equines and canine family forever. MIckella and Toto traveled and visited kindergartens and other educational programs to educate and advocate on equine welfare. Toto and Mickella originated a therapy program in a few assisted living homes for the elderly, Day care for the disabled and recently were invited to a local hospital. Today Mickella owns and operates a program called  “Compassionate Communications with Animals”, Teaching human learners to utilize and improve their observational and communication skills. By harnessing human love and empathy for animals and the passion for a connection and bond, she motivates a more compassionate outlook on Animal behavior, learning and welfare. Mickella teaches humans of all ages but specializes in teaching the practice of clicker training,  cooperative care to toddlers and young children in creative ways. Mickella was an autodidact till she joined the generously knowledgeable ATA group which helped put her and all her learners on the road to success. Mickella’s biggest inspiration comes from Karolina Westlund’s wonderful courses, hoping to inspire others and create more ripples through upcoming lectures, seminars and courses both frontal and online. Mickella is also an Artist, for the past years has also made custom ordered Pyrography pet portraits to support her animals. For links click here >>> https://atamember.com/2023/01/05/mickella-ben-tovim/

1/5/23 • 58:06

Jenni lives in Crested Butte, Colorado with her husband Tim, their border collie, Kyote, also known as Ky, and their two young cats, Truffle and Marmalade. Jenni became passionate about learning the most humane methods for helping dogs with behavior problems after failing to find trustworthy help with Ky when she was a puppy. Since beginning that journey about 6 years ago, Jenni has completed a BA in psychology as well as several training and behavior-related certifications. In addition to operating her training and behavior consulting business, Elevated Dog Training, LLC, and co-founding and operating a non-profit organization, the Humane Alliance of Rescue Trainers, Jenni is a student in the Virginia Tech Applied Animal Behavior and Welfare graduate program. In her “spare time” she and Tim are building a house together (actually building the house). Jenni also enjoys mountain biking, hiking, split-boarding and occasionally climbing rock and ice. For links click here >>> https://atamember.com/2022/12/01/jenni-pfafman/

12/1/22 • 52:32

Laura Perkins resides in Michigan with her husband, 2 dogs and 2 cats. They are eagerly anticipating the arrival of their baby daughter in December!   Currently, Laura provides 1-1 behavior consulting for families and their dogs through her business Laura Perkins Animal Behavior.  She also provides virtual services through Kiki Yablon Dog Training.  For the first time this summer Laura served as a TA for Susan Friedman’s Living and Learning with Animals course.   Laura began training dogs as a young kind in 4-h where she was introduced to what we would today call “balanced training”.  Her “aha” moment regarding clicker training and positive reinforcement based methods was via an agility instructor who used Laura’s dog Sammy as a demo to free shape getting on the table and laying down.  This was the moment that led Laura to pursue an understanding of how this stuff works!   Laura graduated from the University of Illinois in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science.  She wasn’t satisfied with her learning regarding behavior specifically so she went on to pursue a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis at the University of North Texas where she graduated in 2012.  There she studied with Jesús-Rosales-Ruiz and was an active member of the ORCA lab (Organization for Reinforcement Contingencies with Animals).   Between graduate school and now, Laura has worked at a doggy daycare, has served as the behaviorist on staff at a county shelter in Oregon, and has continued to grow her business.   Laura’s dog hobbies are doing nosework, obedience and occasionally some at-home agility with her two dogs Dan (Herding Dog Multi Blend) and Doug (Border Collie).  Outside of dog training, Laura enjoys hiking, gardening and is learning to play the guitar. For links CLICK HERE >>> https://atamember.com/2022/11/03/laura-perkins/ 

11/3/22 • 47:44

Katherine Bartlett MMCP, IDTC A life-long horse person, Katie was introduced to training with positive reinforcement in 1999 and has studied extensively with Alexandra Kurland and Kay Laurence. Her website, www.equineclickertraining.com is one of the oldest sites that shares information about teaching horses using positive reinforcement. The site contains descriptions of the work she has done with her own horses as well as material from clinics and conferences she has attended.  Her primary interest is in using positive reinforcement, bodywork, and gymnastic exercises to improve the way horses move and feel about their training. She offers in-person and virtual coaching, as well as hands on bodywork sessions. She is also the author of two books, Teaching Horses with Positive Reinforcement and What Can I Teach My Horse?  To check links mentioned in the episode, visit this website >>> https://atamember.com/2022/10/06/katie-bartlett/ 

10/6/22 • 72:57

Whitney received his bachelor's degree from Iowa State University in Animal Ecology with a specialization in animal care and a minor in Biology in 2005.  From there he became lead animal keeper at the Kangaroo Conservation Center in Georgia. In 2009 he moved to Garden City, KS for a zookeeping job at Lee Richardson Zoo. He was then promoted to Manager of Distance Learning and Technology and then again to Curator of Education. In 2018 he left the zoo field to help pet owners in SW KS by starting Buchman Best Behaviors.  Currently he is finishing his Karen Pryor Academy certification. He recently moved into a new home with his wife Mary to accommodate their 5 dogs, 1 cat, 4 bunnies, and 2 fish tanks.  For links CLICK HERE >>> https://atamember.com/2022/09/01/whitney-buchman/ 

9/1/22 • 50:51

SI lives with her husband of 37 years and their 5 year old dog, Micki (whom she loves a ridiculous amount). While she grew up with an assortment of apartment friendly pets, SI did not own nor even personally know a dog for most of her life. All that changed 21 years ago when her family got a puppy. That puppy inspired her to learn all she could about training. She has been a dedicated “cookie pusher” training enthusiast ever since. While that first puppy was the world’s easiest dog to train, the arrival of Micki forced her to delve back into training and  to explore that the “ABC’s of behavior” meant much more than “Always Bring Cookies.” Fortunately for Micki, SI, and their relationship, she came to appreciate the importance of listening to Micki and providing her with choice and control in her life. SI views her role as Micki’s advocate to be of utmost importance. For links click here >>> https://atamember.com/2022/08/09/behavior-of-eating/ 

8/9/22 • 76:17

Joann Rechtine, CSAT, CPDT-KA, FDM, FFCP, MS, MPH, RN Joann has been working with dogs professionally for over twenty years and specializes in separation anxiety work. Joann is a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT). She is the owner and founder of The Loose Leash Academy and works exclusively with dogs who experience separation anxiety or isolation distress issues and uses humane and studied protocols that are formulated specifically for a dog’s needs. She is also a Certified Professional Dog Trainer through the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), a certified Family Dog Mediator, and a Fear Free™ Certified Trainer.  Joann currently organizes educational events for dog training professionals in subjects like dog aggression, nose work, and separation anxiety. She is an expert at organizing events and has planned everything from 1-hour seminars to multiple- day international conferences. Trish McMillan holds a Master’s degree in Animal Behavior from the University of Exeter in England and numerous other certifications and credentials.  She specializes in training and behavior modification work using positive reinforcement with dogs, cats, and horses. Trish runs McMillan  Animal Behavior in North Carolina and Shelter Behavior Hub online and worldwide. For links visit here >>> https://atamember.com/2022/07/02/behavioral-euthanasia/ 

7/2/22 • 53:22