Dog Behavior Modification Philosophy
Ethical & Effective Behavior ChangeSuzanne is passionate about applying science-based behavior change methods that are both effective and ethical. Behavior modification is by definition somewhat invasive. If you’ve ever tried to overcome a fear, you know that process can be more stressful than just avoiding the thing that frightens you. Even though the outcome of not being afraid is desirable, the process to get there can be hard.
To be both ethical and effective, Suzanne strives to provide the least intrusive, minimally aversive (LIMA) approach that provides a solution that is acceptable to both the dog and the handler. This means ensuring the dog’s needs are being met first through a thorough assessment their lifestyle. A dog is a product of its breed and genetics, experiences, and environment, and personality. This means that different dogs have different physical, mental, and emotional needs. Once all the dog’s needs have been met, any remaining fears and anxieties are addressed using methods that adhere to the humane hierarchy.
Beneath every behaviour there is a feeling. And beneath each feeling there is a need. And when we meet that need rather than focus on the behaviour, we begin to deal with the cause, not the symptom. — Ashleigh Warner
Questions? Ready to schedule? Contact Suzanne today.
