Behaviour - Problem Dogs
Link to Clients comments
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Question: |
What is a Behaviour Consultation and when do I need it? |
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Many people are not quite sure as to when their dogs behaviour warrants calling in an expert. Basically, any problem that cannot be sorted out in a training situation warrants a behaviour consultation. These problems cover behaviours such as reactive behaviour (to dogs or humans), fear issues, separation anxiety, excessive destructive behaviour, demanding behaviour, unacceptable urination, compulsive behaviour and any extremes of behaviour exhibited by the dog or dogs. |
| Question: |
Are there any qualifications required to be a behaviourist? |
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Most definitely yes. Being a behaviourist consultant is a profession, and as in all professions, courses and certification is required in order to meet the accreditation process. My qualifications are listed at the end. |
| Question: |
Do I come to you, or do you come to me, and how long will it take? |
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All initial consultations are done at the owners' home, unless the owner lives far away. This is to assess the behaviour and the circumstances in which the behaviour is occurring. An initial consultation will involve the owner completing a comprehensive questionnaire before the consultation, and in some cases (aggression for example), the owner may be asked to take the dog to their local vet for a complete check-up to rule out any medical reason for the behaviour.
The initial consultation will be in the region of one and a half to two hours. Depending on the type of behaviour being exhibited, the whole family may be required to be present at the initial consultation. |
| Question: |
What happens during a consultation? |
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| Answer: |
In addition to the questionnaire, additional questions will be asked and the dogs behaviour will be observed. Thereafter a 'plan of action' is implemented in order for the problem behaviour/s to be rectified - these will include diet, behaviour modifications, obedience exercises, Tellington TTouch and changes in the interaction between owners and their dogs. As I believe that when you have an understanding of why your dog is engaging in a particular behaviour you then have the knowledge and tools to change it, comprehensive information on the dogs behaviour is given. |
| Question: |
What happens after a consultation? |
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A fully comprehensive report is sent to you giving all the details of the plan of action decided upon as well as explanations as to why the changes are taking place. Depending on the nature of the behavioural problem a copy of this may be sent to your local vet. Each owner and dog are different, but on average a further consultation is set up in order to access the progress and make any changes or add in additional exercises. You will have access to your behaviourist both by telephone and e-mail during the process of rehabilitation in order to assist you if you have any questions or concerns at no additional cost. |
A behavioural concern needs to be dealt with as soon as possible
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My Qualifications |
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Certificate: |
Animal Behaviour Consultant Acc. Cn. (ABC of SA) |
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Certificate: |
Tellington TTouch Practitioner |
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Certificate: |
Puppy Socialization & Basic Home Obedience (SAADOI-SA Association of Dog Obedience Instructors) |
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Certificate: |
Basic Animal Behaviour (Canine) - Technikon, Pretoria |
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Certificate: |
Modern Theories of Canine Psychology, Behaviour & Obedience (Distinction) Animal Care College U.K. |
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Certificate: |
Veterinary Nutritional Advisor (Hills) |
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Certificate: |
Louise L Hay Facilitator |
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