1st May 2006

Read more: Dogs | Comments (0)

Question:

Where can I find information on training to become a dog behaviour counsellor?

Answer:

Look on the website of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (www.apbc.org.uk) for the latest information. At the moment, there is no one recognised way of becoming a pet behaviour counsellor, but the APBC will help you find out about the various avenues you could follow. At the moment, there are no controls on who can practice, but this will change in the future. New legislation will mean that everyone practising behaviour therapy will have to be assessed and licensed. For this, and to be a good behaviourist, you will need both academic ability and learning, plus practical experience. A degree in animal behaviour science (e.g. from the University of Lincoln) would be a good place to start; or an MSc in Companion Animal Behaviour Counselling (from Southampton University). In addition, plenty of practical handling skills practice is needed. This can be gained by working at your local rescue centre or similar. It is a very rewarding career, but it does take a long time before you have built up enough knowledge and experience to become good at it, so be prepared for a long haul – good luck.