If you’re a pet owner, then you must know that responsible dog ownership in addition to positive training and greater understanding make a huge difference in the protection of the canine member of your family.
We spoke with Paramita Das, a canine trainer and behaviorist from Kolkata to discuss ways to handle dog behavior issues and growing opportunities in the dog training bangkok area of dog training and dog behavior.
Edugraph: What exactly is it that is the task of the dog behaviorist?
Paramita Das: Dog behaviorists collaborate with pet owners to help them comprehend the behaviors of their dogs. They also implement a programme to assist in addressing and managing problems like these. In order to do this, these experts analyze the behaviour patterns of dogs, observe the interaction with their dogs and then interpret and watch the dog’s body language in various settings.
What brought you into this field?
PD: After over two decades in the corporate world I decided to pursue my love for dealing with dog owners. I realized that in addition to my love for dogs, it’s vital to get to know the breed better since they are an entirely different species than humans.
Once I completed my first canine trainer’s course, I wanted to help pet parents train their dogs using gentle and positive methods. My goal was to make sure that they as well as their pet family members could enjoy a the best time together. Then, I went on to take classes regarding canine aggression and behavior as well.
What are your typical tasks in this job?
PD: My daily activities include training young puppies and adult dogs to become good pets, and teaching dogs to play and have fun as well as working with families that are experiencing behavior issues with their dogs. I also deal with chewing and destructive behaviour and separation anxiety issues. behavior that is arouses attention, toilet training anxiety issues, fear, aggression and leash walking issues.
What is the most frequent challenge that you’re confronted with?
PD: While the majority of humans believe that the dog is the problem, a lot of issues are caused by dog owners. There is no knowledge of the reasons why dogs behave in particular ways and how we might have contributed to this behavior. In today’s busy and hectic lifestyle, time or patience is limited. This is among the major challenges. Once the family is invested in engaging with animals in a structured manner, things become smoother.
Are you able to describe the strategies you follow while working with dogs that have behavioral issues?
PD: I usually employ techniques to help the pet’s family members understand the causes that their dog has behaviors problems. It is essential that the entire family participate in obedience training to ensure they can ensure that their dog obeys at all times and behaves in a way that is acceptable. Pet owners should have some influence over their dog’s behavior in an acceptable manner. My job is to implement a programme to strengthen the bonds between the pets and their families.
What are the most common mistakes pet owners make playing with their pets?
Many pet owners regard their dog as an individual or as a toy. Dogs are living being — a different species. Human Beings are primates, but the dogs belong to canids. Although dogs are among our best friends, some pet owners should recognize that they belong to an entirely different species. Therefore, it’s essential that they understand the canine species. Families must know all they can about the breed of their dogs and apply that knowledge positively.
What advice would you give to someone who is to bring the puppy to their home?
PD: Be aware that the dog is different species , and you must be prepared to devote a significant amount of time and effort. Know your dog better –instill a positive manners, take him/her out for walks, play appropriate games with him/her , and be involved in activities that he/she is interested in.
Prepare yourself for financial obligations such as vet bills, costs in case your dog gets sick grooming and boarding fees when you are away or moving. Also, it is important to establish a support system to be in place in the event of an emergency.
Overall, I believe you need to be prepared to commit for a commitment that lasts 12-14 years to bring dogs. It is possible to pursue your individual interests and hobbies however a dog’s needs are dependent on the human family to give them a good life. We must not let our pet down on that.
What advice would you give to those who are young and already have a pet?
PD: Take part in the life of your dog. Make sure you are involved in the activities your dog is truly passionate about. If you own Labradors, you can take them for a dip. If you have an Beagle or Indie then take them out for scent-based games in the park. Spend moments with your dog in order to create an enduring bond. Enjoying your time together is all that is important.
What are the educational and professional paths to follow if one would like to become a dog trainer or behaviorist?
In the field of dog behavior, there are courses that can be taken to learn the information and training required to be an experienced dog behaviorist. I’ve taken classes taught by Shirin Merchant who is one leading experts in the discipline of canine behavior as well as instruction in India. I have also taken classes of John Rogerson, who is an internationally-renowned dog trainer and behaviorist. John and Shirin both Shirin and John employ gentle and positive methods of training that are focused on building a strong relationship between the dog’s family.
What are the career streams you can pursue when doing work with dog?
PD A lot of opportunities available in this booming field. More and more people are aware of the necessity to bring your pets to a specialist these days. The roles of a vet groomer, trainer and behaviourist are some of the most commonly used choices. It is also possible to run a boarding centre for dogs. Working with animals and volunteering at shelters is another option. If you are trained properly you could also be a pet nutrition consultant.
