The Science of Animal Behavior

During a recent board meeting with the National Association of Animal Behaviorists (NAAB), we started discussing how important science is to our field of study. While many of us are interested in finding practical solutions for our clients whose pets are experiencing behavior problems, the bottom line is that we hope there is good science and solid evidence that those solutions we are promoting actually work. We have all been frustrated more than once by someone who is purported to be the best in the business promote a solution that we know is faulty, doesn't have the scientific evidence to support it, or, in fact, has ample evidence that the method DOESN'T work/isn't safe, etc. Sometimes these well-known individuals have an obvious agenda. They are trying to sell their new book, their new training video, their new TV program, their new seminar series, or their new dietary supplement.  Obviously, it falls on consumers, and in this case pet owners, to decide who to follow and what to try for their own four legged family members.  However, we do feel that some of these folks with the notoriety aren't really as concerned with whether what they are saying is actually true; they are more concerned with promoting their agenda.  Bottom line is this: if it doesn't feel right, it probably isn't.  And if it seems unkind, then don't do it. Just because someone is on TV or has their own line of products, doesn't make them the expert on YOUR pet.  You are the expert on your own animals.  This is not a one size fits all profession.  There are numerous possible solutions to any behavior problem.  One of those solutions is likely better for your pet (and you!) than the others.

And the hope of all of us on the board of directors for the NAAB is that we will maintain and promote high standards for our members so that the information you take away from our website resources is fact-based, with the science to support it, and practiced by well-trained, knowledgeable individuals truly interested in the physical and psychological well-being of animals and the people who care for them.

We are still getting ourselves organized, but you may want to bookmark the website and like us on Facebook so that you can access more quality content on issues in animal behavior of interest to you in the future.

https://animalbehaviorists.org/
https://www.facebook.com/NationalAssociationofAnimalBehaviorists

Desi helping me bookmark the NAAB sites on my phone!