While many dog trainers and others have experience working with problem dogs and cats, when complex behavioral issues arise a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) should be the first choice for pet owners. The advanced animal behavioral science degrees required of CAABs are a good indicator of the depth of knowledge and training they have completed.
Once the behavioral problem is diagnosed, they may work closely with veterinarians if medical management is needed to control the animal’s behavior. They will also utilize the skills of dog trainers where appropriate to help the animal and owner control the problem behavior.
Master’s Degree or PhD Required For Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists
Those who choose this advanced animal behaviorist career have completed either a Master’s Degree, a PhD program or a veterinary degree with a behavioral residency. The Master’s Degree or PhD programs must be in the field of behavioral science. In the process of completing these degree programs, Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists gain hands–on experience in animal behavior therapy as well as conducting scientific research into potential causes of these problems.
Once they have completed their animal behaviorist training they must also have a minimum of five years of professional experience in applied animal behavior before being considered by the Animal Behavior Society for certification. Those who have completed a veterinary degree may opt for becoming a CAAB or may become a board–certified diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists.
So Why Chose to Consult a CAAB for Your Cat or Dog Behavior Problem?
For simple issues such as house training or basic dog obedience training a dog trainer or obedience class is the appropriate choice. But more difficult animal behavior problems including aggression, anxiety or canine compulsive behaviors such as spinning or tail chasing, a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist might be a better option. In all cases, an exam by a veterinarian to rule out health problems which may be causing or exacerbating the problem should the first step.
The CAAB will then take a comprehensive history of the pet behavior problem, including observation of the animal with the owner(s) and while the behavior is occurring. In some cases video footage of the animal in its normal environment may help provide information to the animal behaviorist about the problem. As some pet behavioral problems have a genetic component, a pedigree search may be indicated, particularly if littermates or related animals have also exhibited similar behavioral problems.
CAABs Use Integrated Behavior Therapy For Treating Pet Problems
If indicated by the situation, the Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist may work with the pet’s veterinarian to incorporate medications in the therapy program. In some cases, this medical therapy may be temporary but in others the animal may require lifetime medication.
The CAAB may also suggest some basic animal training to help with behavior modification, particularly in cases of compulsive behaviors where it is important to provide alternative activities and appropriate mental stimulation to replace the behavior. The CAAB may suggest working with a professional dog trainer at this point.
Because Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists have done extensive research into behavioral problems in the course of their degree programs, they often have greater insight into possible causes, triggers and solutions to pet behavioral problems. This may result in a quicker assessment of the problem and a better long term resolution as well.
Dawn M. Smith - A vet nurse, Dawn has worked in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation around the world in addition to her veterinary hospital ...
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