shelter Archives - Karen Pryor Academy https://karenpryoracademy.com/tag/shelter/ Karen Pryor Academy Tue, 27 Feb 2024 19:31:35 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 Training in the Shelter: Harness Desensitization https://karenpryoracademy.com/training-in-the-shelter-harness-desensitization/ https://karenpryoracademy.com/training-in-the-shelter-harness-desensitization/#respond Tue, 27 Feb 2024 12:49:24 +0000 https://karenpryoracademy.com/?p=13531 Walking a dog with a harness is safer and more comfortable than walking a dog with a traditional collar. However, many dogs are afraid of having a harness put over their heads. Shelter dogs are often already stressed, so wearing a harness can easily induce more fear. By creating a positive association with the harness (or any new equipment), you can help a dog overcome his/her fear.

The post Training in the Shelter: Harness Desensitization appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

]]>

Training in the Shelter: Harness Desensitization

Walking a dog with a harness is safer and more comfortable than walking a dog with a traditional collar. However, many dogs are afraid of having a harness put over their heads. Shelter dogs are often already stressed, so wearing a harness can easily induce more fear. By creating a positive association with the harness (or any new equipment), you can help a dog overcome his/her fear.

In this video, KPA faculty member Steve Benjamin is teaching a shelter dog to wear a harness. Steve begins by rewarding the dog for investigating the harness. As the dog becomes comfortable with the sight of the harness, Steve introduces the dog to the feel of the harness by placing it on his neck and back. Over time, Steve builds on this behavior until he is able to slip the harness over the dog’s head. He uses plenty of treats as he repeats that step to ensure that it is a positive experience. Once the dog is comfortable with the harness over his head, Steve buckles the harness clips and they are ready for their walk!

For more information about how to enrich the lives of shelter animals in your care, check out KPA’s Shelter Training & Enrichment course!

BETTER BEHAVIOR, MORE ADOPTIONS

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment.

Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

LEARN MORE

Save 20% during Train Your Dog Month!

Offer ends this Saturday, January 31, at 11:59 pm (ET).

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Use coupon code TYD2026 and save $49!

Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

LEARN MORE

SAVE 20% DURING OUR BACK-TO-SCHOOL SALE!

The sale ends on Tuesday, September 30, at 11:59 pm (ET).

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Use coupon code BTS2025 and save $49!

LEARN MORE

Celebrate With Us! Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Enroll in October and save $50 with  Coupon Code: STE2025 or apply for a Zoe scholarship.

LEARN MORE

Sale ends Tuesday, October 31, at 11:59 pm (ET).

RELIEVE ANIMALS' STRESS, ENRICH THEIR LIVES!

Learn how to enrich the lives of animals in your care with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment.

Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

LEARN MORE

The post Training in the Shelter: Harness Desensitization appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

]]> https://karenpryoracademy.com/training-in-the-shelter-harness-desensitization/feed/ 0 Low-Cost Enrichment Through Shaping https://karenpryoracademy.com/low-cost-enrichment-through-shaping/ https://karenpryoracademy.com/low-cost-enrichment-through-shaping/#respond Tue, 31 Jan 2023 00:09:30 +0000 https://karenpryoracademy.com/?p=16100 Shelters can be a stressful environment for dogs. Fortunately, there are simple, low-cost enrichment activities that can be implemented to provide comfort, reduce stress-induced behaviors, increase confidence, and promote adoptability. Enrichment can also be used to teach shelter dogs how to interact with their environments in a way that delivers a positive outcome. One easy way to provide enrichment is with shaping, the process of gradually teaching an animal a new action or behavior by clicking and treating the animal during each step of the process.

The post Low-Cost Enrichment Through Shaping appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

]]>

low-cost enrichment through shaping

Shelters can be a stressful environment for dogs. Fortunately, there are simple, low-cost enrichment activities that can be implemented to provide comfort, reduce stress-induced behaviors, increase confidence, and promote adoptability. Enrichment can also be used to teach shelter dogs how to interact with their environments in a way that delivers a positive outcome. One easy way to provide enrichment is with shaping, the process of gradually teaching an animal a new action or behavior by rewarding the animal during each step of the process.

An excellent way to get started with shaping—and a fun enrichment game—is to shape a dog to do something with an object. The object can be anything: a bucket, a target, even a simple cardboard box, as demonstrated in this video by KPA CTP Zach Ruth! At first, the dog will most likely want to investigate the novel object by glancing at it, sniffing it, even pawing it. Great! Click and treat for any interest in the object. Be sure to toss the treat a few feet away from the item to reset the behavior. After a few repetitions, the dog will begin to realize that interacting with the object results in more treats. The dog may begin to try other ways to interact with the box. This is a great sign! Keep clicking and treating for every interaction. If the dog interacts with the box in a way that you particularly like (perhaps getting into or onto the box), you can then capture that behavior by only rewarding for that particular interaction.

Congratulations—you just shaped a new behavior and helped your shelter dog make a good impression on potential adopters! For more low-cost, high-value enrichment ideas, as well as other tips to improve the lives of the cats in your care, check out KPA’s Shelter Training & Enrichment course!

BETTER BEHAVIOR, MORE ADOPTIONS

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment.

Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

LEARN MORE

Save 20% during Train Your Dog Month!

Offer ends this Saturday, January 31, at 11:59 pm (ET).

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Use coupon code TYD2026 and save $49!

Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

LEARN MORE

SAVE 20% DURING OUR BACK-TO-SCHOOL SALE!

The sale ends on Tuesday, September 30, at 11:59 pm (ET).

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Use coupon code BTS2025 and save $49!

LEARN MORE

Celebrate With Us! Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Enroll in October and save $50 with  Coupon Code: STE2025 or apply for a Zoe scholarship.

LEARN MORE

Sale ends Tuesday, October 31, at 11:59 pm (ET).

SHELTER TRAINING & ENRICHMENT

Learn how to enrich the lives of animals in your care with our online course.
LEARN MORE

The post Low-Cost Enrichment Through Shaping appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

]]> https://karenpryoracademy.com/low-cost-enrichment-through-shaping/feed/ 0 Building Confidence with Training https://karenpryoracademy.com/building-confidence-with-training/ https://karenpryoracademy.com/building-confidence-with-training/#respond Fri, 13 Jan 2023 22:24:23 +0000 https://karenpryoracademy.com/?p=17488 If you work at or have ever visited a shelter, you know these dogs: the shy dogs that cower in the corner of the kennel, reluctant to interact with visitors, staff, or other dogs. Unfortunately, since they aren’t greeting visitors at the front of the kennel, they are also the dogs that don’t always get adopted. Clicker training can help a shy dog develop confidence by building trust and giving the dog control over the environment.

The post Building Confidence with Training appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

]]>

building confidence with training

If you work at or have ever visited a shelter, you know these dogs: the shy dogs that cower in the corner of the kennel, reluctant to interact with visitors, staff, or other dogs. Unfortunately, since they aren’t greeting visitors at the front of the kennel, they are also the dogs that don’t always get adopted. Clicker training can help a shy dog develop confidence by building trust and giving the dog control over the environment.

Dogs that have learned how to “make people click” usually become calmer and more confident and, thus, more adoptable. Even two or three extra minutes spent clicking and treating an individual animal can be time well spent. Watch this video, courtesy of Steve Benjamin, as a shy dog blossoms through clicker training. The staff begins by working with the dog in the kennel, clicking/treating for approaching the front of the kennel. Once the dog begins to build confidence and trust inside the kennel, the training session is moved outside of the kennel. Despite being surrounded by barking dogs and loud noises, this once shy, cowering dog is now interacting with shelter staff with confidence and enthusiasm!

For more information about how to enrich the lives of animals in your care and help them get adopted faster, check out KPA’s Shelter Training & Enrichment course!

BETTER BEHAVIOR, MORE ADOPTIONS

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment.

Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

LEARN MORE

Save 20% during Train Your Dog Month!

Offer ends this Saturday, January 31, at 11:59 pm (ET).

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Use coupon code TYD2026 and save $49!

Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

LEARN MORE

SAVE 20% DURING OUR BACK-TO-SCHOOL SALE!

The sale ends on Tuesday, September 30, at 11:59 pm (ET).

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Use coupon code BTS2025 and save $49!

LEARN MORE

Celebrate With Us! Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Enroll in October and save $50 with  Coupon Code: STE2025 or apply for a Zoe scholarship.

LEARN MORE

Sale ends Tuesday, October 31, at 11:59 pm (ET).

RELIEVE ANIMALS' STRESS, ENRICH THEIR LIVES!

Learn how to enrich the lives of animals in your care with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment.

Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

LEARN MORE

The post Building Confidence with Training appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

]]> https://karenpryoracademy.com/building-confidence-with-training/feed/ 0 Teach Behaviors that Lead to Faster Adoptions https://karenpryoracademy.com/teach-behaviors-that-lead-to-faster-adoptions/ https://karenpryoracademy.com/teach-behaviors-that-lead-to-faster-adoptions/#respond Tue, 04 Oct 2022 21:34:35 +0000 https://karenpryoracademy.com/?p=20399 If you work at, volunteer for, or have visited a shelter, you’ve probably experienced rows of dogs barking and jumping at the kennel doors. Dogs that bark excessively as people pass by are sometimes overlooked by potential adopters. How do you teach these dogs to remain calm and quiet so that they can increase their chances of being adopted? With positive reinforcement training, of course!

The post Teach Behaviors that Lead to Faster Adoptions appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

]]>

teach behaviors that lead to faster adoptions

If you work at, volunteer for, or have visited a shelter, you’ve probably experienced rows of dogs barking and jumping at the kennel doors. Dogs that bark excessively as people pass by are sometimes overlooked by potential adopters. How do you teach these dogs to remain calm and quiet so that they can increase their chances of being adopted? With positive reinforcement training, of course!

In this video by Clickstart Dog Training Academy, volunteers at a shelter are working with the dogs to reinforce calm, quiet behavior. After they have ensured that all of the dogs’ basic needs have been met, they walk by the kennels calmly and offer each dog a treat—regardless of each dog’s behavior—until all of the dogs are quiet and comfortable. “If these dogs learn that people walking by their kennels is a good thing, and if they learn how to be calm and quiet under those conditions, then the quicker they can find their forever homes. Force-free training for the win!”

For more tips to improve the lives of the animals in your care as well as low-cost, high-value enrichment ideas, check out KPA’s Shelter Training & Enrichment course!

BETTER BEHAVIOR, MORE ADOPTIONS

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment.

Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

LEARN MORE

Save 20% during Train Your Dog Month!

Offer ends this Saturday, January 31, at 11:59 pm (ET).

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Use coupon code TYD2026 and save $49!

Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

LEARN MORE

SAVE 20% DURING OUR BACK-TO-SCHOOL SALE!

The sale ends on Tuesday, September 30, at 11:59 pm (ET).

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Use coupon code BTS2025 and save $49!

LEARN MORE

Celebrate With Us! Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Enroll in October and save $50 with  Coupon Code: STE2025 or apply for a Zoe scholarship.

LEARN MORE

Sale ends Tuesday, October 31, at 11:59 pm (ET).

RELIEVE ANIMALS' STRESS, ENRICH THEIR LIVES!

Learn how to enrich the lives of animals in your care with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment.

Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

LEARN MORE

The post Teach Behaviors that Lead to Faster Adoptions appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

]]> https://karenpryoracademy.com/teach-behaviors-that-lead-to-faster-adoptions/feed/ 0 Foundation Behaviors for Shelter Dogs: Loose-Leash Walking https://karenpryoracademy.com/foundation-behaviors-for-shelter-dogs-loose-leash-walking/ https://karenpryoracademy.com/foundation-behaviors-for-shelter-dogs-loose-leash-walking/#respond Wed, 23 Jun 2021 18:11:41 +0000 https://karenpryoracademy.com/?p=16582 When they think about adding a new dog to the family, many people dream of long, leisurely strolls with their dogs walking beside them nicely. However, leash pulling is one of the most common complaints that pet parents have; it is one reason dogs are surrendered to shelters. By teaching shelter dogs to walk nicely on a leash, shelters can increase adoptions as well as decrease the chances that adopted dogs will be returned.

The post Foundation Behaviors for Shelter Dogs: Loose-Leash Walking appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

]]>

foundation behaviors for shelter dogs: loose-leash walking

When they think about adding a new dog to the family, many people dream of long, leisurely strolls with their dogs walking beside them nicely. However, leash pulling is one of the most common complaints that pet parents have; it is one reason dogs are surrendered to shelters. By teaching shelter dogs to walk nicely on a leash, shelters can increase adoptions as well as decrease the chances that adopted dogs will be returned.

In this video, KPA CTP Sarah Surritt teaches a shelter puppy loose-leash walking. In the beginning, Sarah works on gaining the puppy’s attention, clicking and rewarding first for eye contact and progressing to hand targeting. Once the puppy is following her hand reliably, Sarah begins to train on the move, clicking and rewarding the puppy for being in the desired position (by her side). Note how each time the puppy looks up at Sarah or walks next to her, she offers a reward. The shelter puppy is quickly learning that paying attention to Sarah and walking nicely by her side is a more rewarding experience than forging ahead and pulling. This behavior is sure to make a positive impression on potential adopters searching for their forever companions!

For more information about how to enrich the lives of animals in your care and help them get adopted faster, check out KPA’s Shelter Training & Enrichment course!

BETTER BEHAVIOR, MORE ADOPTIONS

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment.

Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

LEARN MORE

Save 20% during Train Your Dog Month!

Offer ends this Saturday, January 31, at 11:59 pm (ET).

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Use coupon code TYD2026 and save $49!

Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

LEARN MORE

SAVE 20% DURING OUR BACK-TO-SCHOOL SALE!

The sale ends on Tuesday, September 30, at 11:59 pm (ET).

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Use coupon code BTS2025 and save $49!

LEARN MORE

Celebrate With Us! Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month

Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Enroll in October and save $50 with  Coupon Code: STE2025 or apply for a Zoe scholarship.

LEARN MORE

Sale ends Tuesday, October 31, at 11:59 pm (ET).

RELIEVE ANIMALS' STRESS, ENRICH THEIR LIVES!

Learn how to enrich the lives of animals in your care with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment.

Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

LEARN MORE

The post Foundation Behaviors for Shelter Dogs: Loose-Leash Walking appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

]]> https://karenpryoracademy.com/foundation-behaviors-for-shelter-dogs-loose-leash-walking/feed/ 0 Shelter Enrichment for Cats: The Target Game https://karenpryoracademy.com/shelter-enrichment-for-cats-the-target-game/ https://karenpryoracademy.com/shelter-enrichment-for-cats-the-target-game/#respond Tue, 27 Oct 2020 18:18:00 +0000 https://karenpryoracademy.com/?p=9727 The shelter environment is stressful for dogs, and for the people who work there, but the environment is especially stressful for cats. In addition to losing all familiar contacts and past comforts, they are subjected to a constant barrage of alarming stimuli, including noise, strange smells, intrusions from unknown humans, close confinement, and the often-frightening sight and smell of other unfamiliar cats. While you can’t always change the physical environment, you can change the mental environment at a shelter by providing low-cost training and enrichment activities.

The post Shelter Enrichment for Cats: The Target Game appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

]]>

Shelter enrichment for cats: the target game

The shelter environment is stressful for dogs, and for the people who work there, but the environment is especially stressful for cats. In addition to losing all familiar contacts and past comforts, they are subjected to a constant barrage of alarming stimuli, including noise, strange smells, intrusions from unknown humans, close confinement, and the often-frightening sight and smell of other unfamiliar cats. While you can’t always change the physical environment, you can change the mental environment at a shelter by providing low-cost training and enrichment activities.

Simple games, like the Target Game, not only enrich cats’ lives in the shelter, but they also help make cats more friendly and adoptable by teaching them to interact appropriately with humans and decreasing the amount of time they spend at the back of the cage. The game is also rewarding for staff members and volunteers, as it gives them a sure-fire way to get positive responses from cats in their care—a highly rewarding experience for any animal lover!

Here’s how to teach the Target Game:

Equipment

  • A high-value food treat, such as wet cat food
  • Spoon
  • Clicker
  • Target stick that fits between bars or pencil or tongue depressor

Procedure

  • Approach the cat and offer it a small amount of food (the goal is to reward the cat, not to feed it a meal).
  • Wait for the cat to eat the food.
  • Hold the end of your target up to the cage front, near the cat. The cat will likely investigate it. Click the instant the cat’s nose touches the target. Treat. Wait for the cat to eat.
  • Repeat a few times and then move the target slightly, in various directions, clicking and treating for each touch.

The targeting game can be played in very short sessions, with one cat or several, and by one person or several people. Anyone who wants to try can share in the experience and appreciate the results, such as happier, more confident, less fearful animals.

For more low-cost, high-value enrichment ideas, as well as other tips to improve the lives of the cats in your care, check out KPA’s Shelter Training & Enrichment course!

For forever families looking for resources to train their cat at home, check out our Train Your Cat course.

    BETTER BEHAVIOR, MORE ADOPTIONS

    Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment.

    Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

    LEARN MORE

    Save 20% during Train Your Dog Month!

    Offer ends this Saturday, January 31, at 11:59 pm (ET).

    Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Use coupon code TYD2026 and save $49!

    Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

    LEARN MORE

    SAVE 20% DURING OUR BACK-TO-SCHOOL SALE!

    The sale ends on Tuesday, September 30, at 11:59 pm (ET).

    Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Use coupon code BTS2025 and save $49!

    LEARN MORE

    Celebrate With Us! Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month

    Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Enroll in October and save $50 with  Coupon Code: STE2025 or apply for a Zoe scholarship.

    LEARN MORE

    Sale ends Tuesday, October 31, at 11:59 pm (ET).

    LEARN MORE LOW-COST, HIGH-VALUE ENRICHMENT IDEAS!

    Enrich the lives of animals in your care with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment.
    LEARN MORE

    TRAINING DOESN'T NEED TO STOP AT THE SHELTER

    We've got resources for forever families looking to train their cat at home.

    LEARN MORE

    The post Shelter Enrichment for Cats: The Target Game appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

    ]]>     https://karenpryoracademy.com/shelter-enrichment-for-cats-the-target-game/feed/ 0     Training in the Shelter: Introduction to Targeting https://karenpryoracademy.com/training-in-the-shelter-introduction-to-targeting/ https://karenpryoracademy.com/training-in-the-shelter-introduction-to-targeting/#respond Wed, 15 Jul 2020 20:06:38 +0000 https://karenpryoracademy.com/?p=11983 Targeting, when a dog to touches a body part to a specific object or person, is a very valuable and versatile skill to teach a shelter dog, as it serves as a base for so many useful behaviors (come, heel, go-to-crate, go-to-place, say hello, and many more). Targeting can also help many shy dogs develop confidence with people fairly quickly.

    The post Training in the Shelter: Introduction to Targeting appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

    ]]>

    Training in the Shelter: Introduction to Targeting

    Targeting, when a dog to touches a body part to a specific object or person, is a very valuable and versatile skill to teach a shelter dog, as it serves as a base for so many useful behaviors (come, heel, go-to-crate, go-to-place, say hello, and many more). Targeting can also help many shy dogs develop confidence with people fairly quickly. 

    Training in the Shelter-Introduction to Targeting from Karen Pryor Clicker Training on Vimeo.

    Targets can be almost anything. If your dog seems scared of an object, use another object or your hand. In this video, KPA faculty member Steve Benjamin teaches a puppy to hand target.

    To teach this behavior:

    1. Present the target about ¼” in front of the dog’s nose.
    2. Click and treat the instant your dog looks at the target. (If your dog touches it right away, click that!)
    3. Again, present the target ¼” away from your dog’s nose.
    4. When the dog touches the target, click and treat.
    5. Next, progress to presenting the target a little to the left, a little to the right, a little higher, a little lower—clicking and treating every time your dog touches the target. For now, make it easy for your dog by continuing to present the target close to your dog’s nose.
    6. Work in short sessions, no more than 3-5 minutes at a time.

    For more information about how to enrich the lives of animals in your care and help them get adopted faster, check out KPA’s Shelter Training & Enrichment course!

    BETTER BEHAVIOR, MORE ADOPTIONS

    Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment.

    Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

    LEARN MORE

    Save 20% during Train Your Dog Month!

    Offer ends this Saturday, January 31, at 11:59 pm (ET).

    Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Use coupon code TYD2026 and save $49!

    Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

    LEARN MORE

    SAVE 20% DURING OUR BACK-TO-SCHOOL SALE!

    The sale ends on Tuesday, September 30, at 11:59 pm (ET).

    Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Use coupon code BTS2025 and save $49!

    LEARN MORE

    Celebrate With Us! Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month

    Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Enroll in October and save $50 with  Coupon Code: STE2025 or apply for a Zoe scholarship.

    LEARN MORE

    Sale ends Tuesday, October 31, at 11:59 pm (ET).

    SHELTER TRAINING & ENRICHMENT

    Learn how to enrich the lives of animals in your care with our online course.
    LEARN MORE

    The post Training in the Shelter: Introduction to Targeting appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

    ]]>     https://karenpryoracademy.com/training-in-the-shelter-introduction-to-targeting/feed/ 0     Karen Pryor Academy Helps Raise Standards for Dog Training Professionals https://karenpryoracademy.com/karen-pryor-academy-helps-raise-standards-for-dog-training-professionals/ Mon, 16 Dec 2019 21:40:05 +0000 https://karenpryoracademy.com/?p=10018 Waltham, MA, December 16, 2019—Karen Pryor Academy (KPA) will be the first private education institution to join forces with three leading industry associations in the effort to raise professional standards for dog trainers. The standards require trainers to commit to comprehensive education and skill proficiency, prioritize positive training solutions, and follow clear ethical practices in all aspects of their client work.

    The post Karen Pryor Academy Helps Raise Standards for Dog Training Professionals appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

    ]]>

    Karen Pryor Academy helps raise standards for dog training professionals 

    Waltham, MA, December 16, 2019—Karen Pryor Academy (KPA) is the first private education institution to join forces with three leading industry associations in the effort to raise professional standards for dog trainers. The standards require trainers to commit to comprehensive education and skill proficiency, prioritize positive training solutions, and follow clear ethical practices in all aspects of their client work.

    Annie Chastain

    The standards are consistent with the very high bar of demonstrated training knowledge and  positive-reinforcement-based training skill proficiency already required for graduation and certification from KPA’s industry-leading Dog Trainer Professional education and certification program. The additional standards, referred to as the Joint Standards of Practice, have been recently incorporated into KPA’s professional training pledge, applicable to the organization’s 1,700+ alumni Certified Training Partners (CTPs) who commit to uphold KPA’s professional training and teaching standards in their work. 

    The Joint Standards of Practice are also endorsed by the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), and the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT).

    “Strong professional ethics, education, and expertise throughout our profession are crucial to the wellbeing of the animals and humans we serve,” said Ken Ramirez, Executive Vice President and Chief Training Officer at KPA. “As an independent organization, KPA requires even more stringent standards for graduates, but we support and endorse the Joint Standards as a minimum standard for the industry in general. Working with others who share these goals means that together we can represent a much larger swath of the training community that shares our approach and basic standards.”

    About KPA

    Karen Pryor Academy for Animal Training & Behavior (KPA) offers positive-reinforcement-based courses for both experienced and aspiring trainers. KPA offers 11 all-online courses as well as its flagship Dog Trainer Professional program, a combination of online learning and hands-on workshops. KPA is advancing the field of force-free training by certifying and promoting the next generation of skilled animal trainers and teachers. To learn more about Karen Pryor Academy courses, visit www.karenpryoracademy.com. To view an international list of KPA Certified Training Partners, visit https://www.karenpryoracademy.com/find-a-trainer.

    Image
    Image

    Find a Great Dog Trainer

    Discover why working with a Karen Pryor Academy (KPA) Certified Training Partner (CTP) is the right choice for you and your pet.

    Learn More

    The post Karen Pryor Academy Helps Raise Standards for Dog Training Professionals appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

    ]]>         Karen Pryor Academy Announces 2019 Zoe Shelter Scholarship Recipients https://karenpryoracademy.com/karen-pryor-academy-announces-2019-zoe-shelter-scholarship-recipients/ Fri, 01 Nov 2019 15:53:52 +0000 https://karenpryoracademy.com/?p=9756 Waltham, MA, October 31, 2019—Karen Pryor Academy (KPA) and Lisa White, DVM, founder of Veterinary Behavior Management Solutions in Cincinnati, Ohio, are pleased to announce and congratulate the winners of the 2019 Zoe Shelter Scholarships to KPA’s Shelter Training & Enrichment course.

    The post Karen Pryor Academy Announces 2019 Zoe Shelter Scholarship Recipients appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

    ]]>

    Karen Pryor Announces 2019 shelter scholarship recipients 

    Waltham, MA, November 1, 2019—Karen Pryor Academy (KPA) and Lisa White, DVM, founder of Veterinary Behavior Management Solutions in Cincinnati, Ohio, are pleased to announce and congratulate the winners of the 2019 Zoe Shelter Scholarships to KPA’s Shelter Training & Enrichment course.

    Annie Chastain

    Made possible by Dr. Lisa White and her husband Brody in remembrance of their dog Zoe, the annual scholarship program debuted in October 2014 in honor of the ASPCA’s Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog-Month. The program is designed to assist shelters as they implement training and enrichment programs that both enrich the lives of the animals in their care and help the animals find their forever homes. This year, six scholarship recipients were selected from dozens of applications representing shelters and rescue organizations throughout the world.

    “It is wonderful to see so many shelter and rescue organizations with the desire to implement or improve enrichment programs,” said KPA Associate Director Gretchen Carey. “We look forward to seeing how the six recipients will use the knowledge gained from the Shelter Training & Enrichment course to make life in the shelter better for the animals and for shelter staff members.”

    The 2019 Zoe Shelter Scholarship recipients are:

    • Jason Rae, Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center, Riverside, CA
    • Haley LaFond, South Suburban Humane Society, Chicago Heights, IL
    • Carlee Fiddes, Beatrice Humane Society, Beatrice, NE
    • Nancy Haynes, Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, Menands, NY
    • Stephanie Flower, Cleveland Animal Protective League, Cleveland, OH
    • Tamara Lightner, Marshall County Animal Shelter, Moundsville, WV

    Learn more about the 2019 Zoe Scholarship Winners.

    About Karen Pryor Academy

    Karen Pryor Academy for Animal Training & Behavior (KPA) offers positive-reinforcement-based courses for both experienced and aspiring trainers. KPA offers 11 all-online courses (Dog Trainer Foundations, Dog Trainer Comprehensive, Puppy Start Right for Instructors, Dog Sports Essentials, Shelter Training & Enrichment, Canine Freestyle, Smart Reinforcement, Better Veterinary Visits, Train Your Cat!, Concept Training: Let’s Get Started, and Concept Training: Modifier Cues). The KPA flagship Dog Trainer Professional program is a combination of online learning and hands-on workshops. KPA is advancing the field of force-free training by certifying and promoting the next generation of skilled animal trainers and teachers. To learn more about Karen Pryor Academy courses, visit www.karenpryoracademy.com. To see an international list of KPA Certified Training Partners, visit https://www.karenpryoracademy.com/find-a-trainer.

    Image
    Image

    SHELTER TRAINING & ENRICHMENT

    Learn how to enrich the lives of animals in your care with our online course!

    Learn More

    The post Karen Pryor Academy Announces 2019 Zoe Shelter Scholarship Recipients appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

    ]]>         Low-Cost Enrichment Ideas for Shelters https://karenpryoracademy.com/low-cost-enrichment-ideas-for-shelters/ https://karenpryoracademy.com/low-cost-enrichment-ideas-for-shelters/#respond Wed, 23 Oct 2019 17:57:03 +0000 https://karenpryoracademy.com/?p=9605 Life in a shelter is stressful for dogs—even at the most humane shelters. A variety of enrichment activities can enhance the quality of dogs’ lives while they are at the shelter by reducing stress and anxiety and, in turn, promoting adoptability.

    The post Low-Cost Enrichment Ideas for Shelters appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

    ]]>

    low-cost enrichment ideas for shelters

    Life in a shelter is stressful for dogs, even at the most humane shelters. A variety of enrichment activities can enhance the quality of dogs’ lives while they are at the shelter. Enrichment reduces stress and anxiety and, in turn, promotes adoptability.

    Fortunately, providing daily enrichment doesn’t require a lot of money or resources. As you’ll see in this video, everyday recyclable items such as egg cartons and drink cartons can be transformed into fun and engaging food puzzles that provide hours of fun!

    shelter-enrichment-promo from Karen Pryor Clicker Training on Vimeo.

    For more low-cost, high-value enrichment ideas, as well as other tips to improve the lives of the dogs in your care, check out KPA’s Shelter Training & Enrichment course!

    BETTER BEHAVIOR, MORE ADOPTIONS

    Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment.

    Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

    LEARN MORE

    Save 20% during Train Your Dog Month!

    Offer ends this Saturday, January 31, at 11:59 pm (ET).

    Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Use coupon code TYD2026 and save $49!

    Hurry, sale ends tonight at 11:59 pm (ET)

    LEARN MORE

    SAVE 20% DURING OUR BACK-TO-SCHOOL SALE!

    The sale ends on Tuesday, September 30, at 11:59 pm (ET).

    Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Use coupon code BTS2025 and save $49!

    LEARN MORE

    Celebrate With Us! Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month

    Enrich the lives of animals in your care and solve common behavior problems with our online course, Shelter Training & Enrichment. Enroll in October and save $50 with  Coupon Code: STE2025 or apply for a Zoe scholarship.

    LEARN MORE

    Sale ends Tuesday, October 31, at 11:59 pm (ET).

    SHELTER TRAINING & ENRICHMENT

    Learn how to enrich the lives of animals in your care with our online course.

    LEARN MORE

    Save 20% During Train Your Dog Month!

    Learn how to enrich the lives of animals in your care with our Shelter Training & Enrichment online course.
    LEARN MORE

    The post Low-Cost Enrichment Ideas for Shelters appeared first on Karen Pryor Academy.

    ]]>     https://karenpryoracademy.com/low-cost-enrichment-ideas-for-shelters/feed/ 0