Dr. Christopher Pachel, DVM, DACVB, CABC, joins Colleen Pelar and Julie Fudge Smith in a two part series about problems with puppy socialization and what can go wrong with even the best of intentions. In part 1, we discuss trauma associated with socialization and what that can mean for you and your puppy.
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Welcome to a conversation about positive reinforcement training! We also discussed opportunities for professional collaboration, evaluating behavior through a medical model, and the importance of community relationships within the field of animal behavior. Enjoy!
Read MoreOne of the most common complaints people have about cats is problems with eliminating (urinating or defecating) outside of the litter box.
Read MoreWhen you get a new dog, you may be eager and excited to welcome this new member of your family into your home, and your kids will likely be consumed with giddiness and the anticipation of a new best friend. But before your kids try to smother your new puppy or dog with hugs and kisses, you need to consider how best to make these important introductions, and how to do so safely for all involved.
Read MoreEnjoy a conversation and a Q&A session with Mike Shikashio and Dr. Chris Pachel (may require an active Facebook account for viewing).
Read MoreWhen you get a new dog, you may be eager and excited to welcome this new member of your family into your home. But your dogs or cats already at home—your "resident pets"—may not exactly share in your immediate joy and excitement. Taking the time to set up a structured, deliberate process for introducing your new dog to your current pets will increase the chances of safer, more rewarding meet-and-greets and long term relationships.
Read MoreDogs and snakes don't mix! Dog owners living in areas that are also home to venomous snakes and reptiles know how dangerous it can be to encounter one of these animals on a trail hike, or perhaps even in a suburban backyard. A dogs natural curiosity can quickly get them into trouble unless they have previously learned to stay out of harms way!
Read MoreJust like with humans, cats can experience stress that may cause them to act in unpredictable ways. One of the most common causes of cat stress is when they perceive their environment to be unpredictable or unsafe. If the environment does not provide the cat what he needs, he reacts unfavorably.
Read MoreIf you have an aggressive cat, life can get rough.
While aggression in cats is tough on you, it may be even tougher on your cat. Identifying the root cause of the aggression and taking steps to alleviate the situation could lessen the aggressive behavior or eliminate it all together.
Many pet owners don’t realize that cats need socialization and stimulation. Cats are characterized as “independent” or “self-reliant” and some people actually choose to bring them into their home because they are considered less “high-maintenance” than dogs.
The truth is that cats do have these needs and providing an environment that addresses these needs is important.
Read MoreYou are likely familiar with the primary socialization period from approximately 3-16 weeks of age and its long term impact on the behavior patterns of dogs. This presentation will explore details of that developmental period, as well as focusing specifically on the other “windows of opportunity” that occur both before and after the primary socialization period, and how those factors also shape canine behavior.
Read MoreYou are likely familiar with the primary socialization period from approximately 3-16 weeks of age and its long term impact on the behavior patterns of dogs. This presentation will explore details of that developmental period, as well as focusing specifically on the other “windows of opportunity” that occur both before and after the primary socialization period, and how those factors also shape canine behavior.
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