If you’re a pet owner it is important to understand that responsible pet ownership along with positive training and greater understanding of the dog can make a huge difference in the protection for the dog in your family.
We talked to Paramita Das, a canine behaviorist and trainer in Kolkata, to discuss how to deal with dog behavior issues and growing opportunities in the dog training bangkok field of dog behavior and canine behavior.
What exactly is it that is the task of the dog behaviorist?
Paramita Das Dog behaviorists collaborate with pet owners to assist them in understanding the behavioral issues that affect their dogs. They also develop a program to address and control the issues. In order to do this, these professionals analyze the behaviors of dogs, observe the interaction with their dogs and analyze and study the dog’s body language in different situations.
What brought you into this field?
PD: After over two decades in the business world I decided to pursue my love for doing work with animals. I realized that besides loving dogs, it’s important to understand their needs as they’re totally different from humans.
After I had completed my first canine trainer’s training course, I decided to help pet parents guide their dogs through gentle and positive methods. My aim was to ensure that both the dog and its pets can enjoy a an enjoyable life. Then I proceeded to take classes on canine behaviour and aggression and aggression.
What are the daily tasks in this profession?
My daily responsibilities involve training puppies and adult dogs to be excellent canines, preparing dogs to play fun games, working with families facing behavioral issues with their dogs. I also work with chewing and destructive behaviour problems, separation anxiety, attention-seeking behaviour, toilet practice, fear issues, aggression and leash walking issues.
What’s the most common challenge that you’re confronted with?
PD: While a majority of people think that dogs are the problem, a lot of issues are caused by pets owners. There is an inadequacy of understanding of why dogs behave in particular ways and how we may have contributed towards the behavior. In today’s hectic and bustling lifestyle, time and tolerance levels can be low. That’s one of the biggest problems. When the entire family is involved in taking care of the pets they love in a structured way, things get easier.
Can you describe the procedures you employ when working with a dog with problems with behavior?
PD: I mostly follow techniques to help the pet’s owner understand why their dog is exhibiting behavior issues. It’s essential to let the family get involved in obedience classes so that the dog follows them in a variety of situations and in a manner that is acceptable. Pet owners should have some influence over their dog’s behaviour in an appropriate manner. My task is to establish an initiative to improve the bonds between pet owners and their family members.
What are the most frequent errors pet owners make communicating with their pets?
Many pet owners treat their dogs like a human being or a toy. A dog is a living creature — a different species. Human Beings are primates, while they are canids. While dogs are most beloved companions, some pet owners need to recognize that they belong to a different species. So, it’s important to them to be aware of the canine species. Families must be knowledgeable about the breeds of their dogs and apply that knowledge in a positive way.
What advice would you give to anyone who wants to bring your puppy at home?
PD: Understand that the dog is different animal and that you need to put in a lot of effort and time. Learn more about your dog –instill a positive behavior, take him/her for walks, play games with them and be part of the activities that your dog is enjoying.
Prepare yourself for financial obligations like vet bills, expenses for your dog’s illness, grooming charges and boarding fees during your absence as well as relocation expenses. Also, you should put a system of support in place in case of any emergencies.
Overall, I believe you must be prepared to commit for a commitment that lasts 12-14 years to bring dogs. We can pursue our own hobbies and interests however a dog’s needs are dependent upon the human family to give them a good life. Don’t let your dog down in that.
What would be your advice for young people who already have a pet?
PD: Take part in your dog’s life. Be a part of the activities that your dog truly enjoys. If you own Labradors, take them for a dip. If you own an Beagle or Indie you can take them for scenting games in a park. Spend time with your pet to develop strong bonds. Your time spent together is the most important thing.
What are the educational and professional options for someone who is interested in becoming a dog trainer or behaviorist?
PD: There are courses that can be taken in order to obtain the knowledge and skills required to become an experienced dog behaviorist. I have attended courses run by Shirin Merchant, who is one of those pioneering in the area of canine behavior and training in India. I also have taken courses taught by John Rogerson, who is an internationally recognized canine trainer and behaviorist. They both Shirin and John utilize gentle and positive training techniques that concentrate on establishing a solid relationship between the dog and its family.
What are the careers one can choose to pursue while playing with pets?
PD: There are a lot of opportunities within this growing field. People are becoming more aware of the necessity to bring your pets to a specialist in recent times. Working as a vet, groomer, trainer and behaviourist are some of the most commonly used options. You could also operate the boarding center for dogs. Working with animals and volunteering at a shelter is another option. After a proper training you could also be a pet nutritionist.
