Problem-Solving

As a consultant, Ken is called upon to resolve training challenges frequently. These challenges have ranged from problematic zoo animals and difficult working dogs to the more common pet challenges. In every case, he utilizes a problem-solving flow chart or matrix that guides him and his clients to an effective solution. He will share that process with participants and use one or two cases studies to demonstrate how to use the tool effectively.

Aggression Treatments & Management Strategies

Aggression is a constant concern for trainers of domestic and exotic animals, as it is a natural part of all animals’ repertoires. This part of the seminar focuses on an exploration of the various popular aggression-treatment plans, their specific effectiveness, and the underlying science behind each of them. Ken will then share the step-by-step strategies and techniques he uses for reducing aggression.

Handling Animal Mistakes, Positively

Ken will share his perspective of how a positive reinforcement trainer should deal with animal errors. He will look at all of the common and popular techniques, including the use of non-reinforcement markers and time-outs, and will offer more positive alternatives, particularly the use of redirection.

Common Trainer Mistakes

This part of the seminar will focus on the most common mistakes and short-cuts trainers take, and the reasons trainers are often tempted to go in the “wrong direction.” Nearly two dozen common mistakes and solutions will be discussed, from “looking for the quick fix” to a problem to a trainer’s desire to ask for a behavior “just one more time” or “use a behavior before its training is complete.” Additionally Ken will examine some of the myths, common beliefs, and misunderstandings about training—exploring where those beliefs developed and how they can cause training to get off track.

Consulting Skills

Ken likes to tell people that a successful animal training consultant doesn’t need to be good with animals! He says this in jest, of course. To be a good animal trainer, one does need to understand training and be good with animals. However, sometimes the most important skills needed to solve behavioral problems are not animal-training skills. People skills, observational skills, and organizational skills can be the keys to finding solutions to behavioral problems. Before tackling a behavioral problem with a household pet or a large zoo animal several factors need to be considered. This presentation will focus on those factors that need to be addressed first when trying to solve animal-related problems. A review of various case studies will help to reveal how to start out with the right tools and why animal skills may not be the only talent required.