Keeping Fear and Reactivity Classes Separate

with Megan Armstrong

Reactivity in dogs is a common problem with many trainers now running 'growly' classes. A wide range of behavioral problems are addressed in these classes: leash reactivity, fear, aggression concerns, etc. After running growly classes for over four years, Megan recognized that it needed to be broken out, in order to be more effective. Trainers who are not running growly or fear classes, but are trying to address these concerns in regular classes, are likely creating additional issues for these dogs, and feeling a little frustrated themselves. This will outline the differences between the fear and growly classes and how each have evolved to meet their distinct objectives. You will also learn to identify what dogs should be referred to a growly class from a basic obedience class. Attendees will walk away with the questions to ask to place the dog in the appropriate class, class set up and management, and a variety of ways to treat each of these concerns. On top of this, attendees will learn how to keep the class fun and the students motivated!

Learning Objectives:

• Learn how to successfully set up and run fear and reactivity classes
• Learn how to identify the differences between a fearful or reactive dog for placement in the correct class.
• Learn how to modify reactivity and help dogs build confidence in a classroom environment.
  

Presenter Information:

Megan Armstrong, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, is the owner of dogma training & pet services inc. in Calgary, Canada. dogma was started in February 2006, and its first facility opened June 2008. dogma is a canine education center that offers daycare, training and retail services. Training is offered through the daycare, group classes or private consultations. Megan developed a unique and comprehensive dog training apprenticeship program that is one of a kind in Canada. The first session began in November 2009, and to date, there have been over 30 students enrolled in the program.

Megan has over eight years experience teaching group classes at various locations around Calgary and the surrounding area. Before dogma, she worked in the pet supply industry and at the Calgary Humane Society (CHS). As the Internal Canine Behaviour Coordinator at CHS, she honed her skill for understanding a dog’s cues by performing behavioural assessments and maintaining the animal stress reduction programs. Her passion for animals, desire to understand how a dog communicates with us, and adoration for her own two lively canines drive Megan to continue to stay on top of the latest trends in her field.

On top of her designations Megan holds her Pet First Aid Certificate and is a member of the Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainer, Association of Pet Dog Trainers and The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. She is the designated trainer for the Alberta Rescue Foundation (ARF), a consultant for Cochrane Humane Society and a certified mentor trainer for Animal Behaviour College.

CONTINUING EDUCATION UNITS (CEUs)

• CCPDT: 1.5 CEUs
• IAABC: 1.5 CEUs
• KPA: 1.5 CEUs
• IACP: 1.5 CEUs

REGISTRATION

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• Full/Associate Members: $30/Webinar
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• For Registration questions contact Alicia Reynolds, Director of Operations at Alicia@apdt.com

CONTACT INFORMATION
Email: information@apdt.com, Phone: 1.800.PET.DOGS