Taking Action

Individualising treatment for a given client and their pet is essential and so we have to go beyond the theoretical techniques used in human and animal behaviour modification. In the last episode we looked at the COM-B model of human behaviour change. COM-B stands for Capability, Opportunities and Motivations underpinning human Behaviour change. We also introduced the Theoretical Domains, like an individual’s knowledge, beliefs about their capabilities, emotions, ability to visualize a goal and so forth and the Intervention Functions used to make these as optimal as we can for the client. In this episode we return to the dog side of things in our discussion with Becky and Craig . We talk about the importance of avoidance of triggers, and diary keeping but expand on two protocols we have developed at Lincoln. The safe haven and sensitive carer routines. These may be somewhat different to other versions of the protocol that are commonly discussed by behaviourists and trainers. It is important to pay attention to certain details if they are to work as we would hope. 

When choosing interventions it is important that they are right for that client and so we introduce the concept of the APEASE criteria, from the human behaviour change literature, for assessing their suitability. These are important considerations: I detail here what each letter in the acronym APEASE stands for: 

A is  for acceptability

P for practical

E for effective

A for affordable

S for safe

Equitable, i.e is it fair

We discuss these further  in the current episode,  and the last E  is an important ethical consideration and may be where some quick fixes fall down. 

Footnote for those seeking professional support: 

If you are in the UK and would like help with your pet’s behaviour, we encourage  you to seek professional advice. A list of Certificated clinical animal behaviourists, including the presenters of this show can be found at www.ccab.uk/. 

You can also find further details of the Lincoln Animal Behaviour Clinic at animalbehaviourclinic.lincoln.ac.uk/.  

In Europe, if you want to find a veterinary behaviourist you can find a list of Diplomates (individuals who have the highest level of training available in the field) at https://www.ecawbm.org/diplomates-list. 

In North America, you can find a directory of certified applied animal behaviorists at https://www.animalbehaviorsociety.org/web/committees-applied-behavior-directory.php and board certified veterinary behaviorists at: https://www.dacvb.org/search/custom.asp?id=4709. 

#petbehaviourodysseys, #whatmakesyouclick #PBO