Helpful Resources
PROFESSIONAL
American College of Veterinary Behaviorists
The professional organization of veterinarians who have achieved board-certification in the specialty of Veterinary Behavior. These individuals, Drs. Pachel & Pankratz among them, work with individual pet owners, other animal professionals, and facilities that care for animals in order to manage behavior problems and improve the well-being of animals.
American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior
A group of veterinarians and research scientists dedicated to improving the lives of animals and people through an understanding of animal behavior.
International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants This coalition encompasses veterinarians, animal trainers, animal shelter employees, academics, and practicing consultants who may not fit neatly into one of the aforementioned categories, all of whom are dedicated to standardizing and supporting the practice of animal behavior consulting for companion animal behavior problems within the public sphere.
Society of Veterinary Behavior Technicians
By unifying veterinary technicians with a focus in behavior, the SVBT enriches human-animal interactions by promoting scientifically based techniques of training, management, and behavior modification. The SVBT includes technicians who have achieved their specialty in behavior as well as those with an interest in the field.
Association of Professional Dog Trainers
A coalition of pet dog trainers dedicated to bettering the methods of dog training through education and research, for the advancement of trainers everywhere.
GENERAL BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
Animal Behavior Clinic on YouTube
For a collection of informative and helpful behavior and training videos, visit our YouTube page! We have compiled playlists featuring several training topics which are covered in step-by-step detail. Any video in our lists features training methods we endorse. Content is projected to expand into ABC directed videos on behavior and training tips soon.
We also love the San Francisco SPCA’s video on counter conditioning for preventing problem behaviors & introducing new situations to your dog.
Oregon Humane Society
The forerunner for promoting animal welfare in Oregon, OHS helps pets statewide and manages an adoption facility and medical center here in Portland, OR. OHS provides behavior support via their Behavior Helpline, as well as pet adoptions, dog training classes, community outreach, and more.
ASPCA Pet Care & Behavior Tips
The ASPCA’s nationally recognized team of animal behaviorists offer possible solutions to a wide range of “stock” behavior issues. They provide potential solutions with easy step-by-step advice, and their large database helps you to pinpoint a variety of common behavior problems for dogs (found here) and cats (found here).
Dr. Sophia Yin
The late Dr. Sophia Yin was a veterinarian, applied animal behaviorist, and the author of many books. Her methods of leadership and taking body language cues from animals are invaluable for pet training as well as improving our understanding of animals and their behavior so that we can care for, appreciate, and enjoy our time with them better.
Karen Pryor Clicker Training
A leader in the field of animal training and a recognized world leader in the science and application of marker-based positive reinforcement, or what is often called “clicker training.” The company is passionate about the power of the clicker training approach to enrich the lives of pet owners, animal professionals, and the animals they live with, work with, or study.
The Muzzle Up! Project
Although many people are a bit tentative about using a muzzle on their dogs because of the social stigma attached to them, muzzle use is actually a fantastic way of keeping safety in mind when taking a dog out in public. The Muzzle Up! Project is a fantastic resource of information about using muzzles and aims to remove the stigma attached to them.
Coaching For DINOS Families
Jessica Dolce with Dogs in Need of Space (DINOS) offers 1-on-1 sessions to support the human elements of life with difficult pets as you navigate both challenges and successes during training or treatment. Her goals are to listen to your story, troubleshoot daily routine management issues, come up with simple steps to help your family manage your own stress and decisions, and set goals to help everyone enjoy life more together.
PRODUCTS
ThunderWorks
Since 2009 the gentle calming hug of the ThunderShirt has helped over a million dogs and cats around the world overcome their fears and anxieties. Thunder products apply simple pressure to an animal’s body, and have helped with a multitude of pet anxieties including noise phobia, separation, travel, vet visits and much more.
Premier & PetSafe
Premier believes in providing safe, innovative and effective tools that help improve relationships between people and their pets. Their wide range of food-dispensing training toys, dog and cat harnesses, and more open up new solutions to behavior and training for you and your pet.
Outward Hound
Outward Hound makes a wide range of products that will keep dogs active and engaged, from puzzles and toys to outdoor gear. They believe that dogs deserve fun, functional products—products that last longer, challenge their minds, and stimulate their instincts.
Pioneer Pet
Pioneer strives to provide innovative, outside-the-box products that are specifically designed to enhance the quality of life for animals by providing for their behavioral needs. They have improved on everything from pet drinking fountains to cat scratching posts.
Dogwise
Your one-stop shop for a plethora of dog resources. Primarily, Dogwise is overflowing with a huge selection of great behavior and training books, eBooks, and DVDs. In addition to these great resources, Dogwise also offers toys and other training products.
Nina Ottosson
Nina Ottosson games and toys will exercise your pet’s mind and body. These games help animals focus on problem-solving, leading to a reduction in behavior problems, weight gain, and boredom. They are fun for you and your pet to enjoy separately or together.
Patricia McConnell Publishing
Clear and engaging, Patricia’s books & DVDs are invaluable resources for professionals and dog lovers alike. Her oeuvre spans everything from training tips and puppy raising to addressing more complex behavioral issues. Not only do we highly recommend this resource in general, but we frequently direct our clients toward a number of her titles.
iCalmPet: Through a Dog’s Ear (and Cat’s Ear)
Using revolutionary science dedicated to the consumption and calming effects of sound, Dog’s Ear can relieve anxiety and create a relaxing atmosphere for your pet. The music of Dog’s Ear is intentionally selected, arranged and recorded to be taken by your pet and help them relax. It is available on CD for your dog or cat, or through the portable iCalm.
Cascadia Pet Furniture
Unique driftwood cat trees. Built in the Northwest using local materials including driftwood, sisal, animal friendly fleece upholstery, and a little bit of love.
HELP FOR KIDS AND DOGS
Helping Paws NW
Local Portland resource Vanesa Vizuete hosts “I Speak Woof” Classes and individual coaching sessions for families with children (or who are expecting) to navigate the nuances of successful, safe interactions between dogs and children. Whether there are issues already or your family is just hoping to prepare for the future, Vanesa has a large toolbox of information to assist with a variety of topics and goals.
Blue Dog
Dr. Pachel’s favorite resource for helping kids learn how to interact safely with dogs in a fun way is the “Blue Dog” book and CD produced by the American Veterinary Medical Association. This is a program designed to be used with kids from 5-9 years old but can be used with other ages as well.
Living with Kids and Dogs
Colleen Pelar has compiled an amazing collection of articles and advice for parents/grandparents on how to structure interactions between kids and dogs safely and effectively. She provides numerous resources, as well as books for purchase including the comprehensive guidebook she authored, “Living with Kids and Dogs… Without Losing Your Mind.”
Family Paws
Family Paws Parent Education provides specialized programs for new and expecting families with dogs. They offer a wide range of support to families, dog professionals and childbirth professionals to support success between babies, toddlers and family dogs. Their goal is to increase the safety of children and the success of dogs in homes with children.
Dr. Yin’s Posters
There are several posters available for free download at Dr. Sophia Yin’s website (yes, we mentioned this earlier. She has great resources!) These include recommendations on how to meet/greet a dog, how to read dog body language, and tips for kids on how to interact safely with dogs.
