Africa Research Begins...

Posted by jennifer on May 20, 2010 in Training & Behavior Tips.

Today I began my research into Hyenas and African Wild Dogs. I will be leaving for South Africa soon to go behind the scenes with biologists working on conservation efforts and local livestock concerns surrounding Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique. I will also be observing many other species of animals. I can't stress enough how my research of wildlife and working with other animals has given me unbelievable ideas of which I try on your average domestic dog. I have thought more in terms of an animal surviving on the food chain than anything else living up in the mountains. I truly live on their terms and from their perspective. Most people don't think of a flapping jacket and spinning wheels or going the same route on a mountain bike may attract a mountain lion, but I do.
This has been an interesting year for me. It's been a time where I've had to stand up for what I believe in and stay true to my efforts of educating the public in the right way to work with animals. The truth is, there is no wrong way so long as you are not abusive and can see the dog, wolf- whatever for their personality & temperament. In order to be a good trainer you have to be flexible and ebb and flow with your methods dependent on the dog. I personally think the whole thing between positive and negative reinforcement arguments is something quite unbelievable. I don't know how many teachers I've met that have a large number of methods they apply in the classroom- not just one. That's kind of like assuming all people are only visual learners and that just doesn't make sense.
Today while training Elvis, I was using both positive reward and a negative reinforcement to show him exactly what I wanted. The truth is, you can use many different things to show a dog exactly what you mean- no, I don't want this... I want this!
For some, it's easier marketing and anxiety relieving to put things into one nice, neat box but that isn't reality- all people are individuals and so are dogs. I hope I can show the world that all animals need to be understood for who they are first and it is our responsibility as their caregivers to learn different tools that work for each individual one.
Have a great night!
- Jennifer

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