subject: Should I Call An Animal Behaviorist? [print this page] Sometimes our animals develop behaviors that seem intractable. Some well-known TV shows blame the behaviors on the owners' not exuding enough calm, assertive energy (translate that dominance) toward their pets. This dominant-submissive relationship between pet and trainer went out decades ago and many an animal behaviorist today vehemently opposes this training method, as well as the show that espouses its use.
The fact remains that sometimes our pets do things that we do not want them to do or are dangerous to themselves or others and we cannot figure out how to change the pets' behavior. It is at that point, we need to call in an animal behaviorist who will help us figure out what the behaviors mean, make sure they are not related to a medical condition and teach the pet another way of being.
Behaviorists are trained to diagnose and treat negative behaviors in a huge array of animals. Some work in solo practices, others for zoos or animal rescue organizations. Some are veterinarians with advanced training in behavior. For domesticated animals, most animal behaviorists in solo practice work together with a vet to make sure that the animal is getting the best comprehensive treatment.
Dogs and cats may develop problem behaviors during puppyhood or as adults, just as people can. Scent marking, hissing, scratching furniture, obsessive behaviors, anxiety, house training and litter box issues, leash manner are just a few commonly seen behaviors treated by behaviorists.
Even birds can have behavior issues that warrant the advice of a specialist. Some typical problems a specialist may be brought in to help with include feather picking, screeching, loud, extreme vocalizations, self-stimulatory behaviors, fear of being held, resistance to returning to the bird cage and phobias. A qualified animal behaviorist working with a vet will make sure that the behaviors are not biologically based before introducing a training program with any species of animal. Sometimes neurological conditions are revealed in symptoms and can only be managed with medication.
Horses are also known to have their share of behavior issues. These include cribbing, kicking stalls or people, spooking easily, rearing up, bucking, digging holes and more. Fortunately, they can be remediated with the help of a trained professional.
What can an animal behaviorist do to help the animal overcome behavioral struggles? Quite a bit, actually. Using operant conditioning and positive reinforcement, the behaviorist (and pet owner) will shape the animal's behavior closer and closer to the desired behavior. This is done only by positive reinforcements, usually in the form of food treats. No punishment is allowed.
Sometimes the animal behaviorist will suggest that the owner purchase some items that will assist with the process of changing the pet's behavior. The owner of a dog or a cat with separation anxiety may purchase a pheromone spray. Dogs who are insecure and fearful may do better with something known as an anxiety wrap. For pets who act out due to boredom, providing toys that stimulate their minds can have a significant reduction in problem behavior. Whatever the reason that your pet has problem behavior, a qualified behaviorist can assist.
