If you’re a pet owner it is important to understand that responsible dog ownership in addition to positive training and greater understanding of the dog can go a long way in the direction of ensuring the health and well-being that your dog is a member of your family.
We caught up with Paramita Das, who is a dog behaviorist and trainer in Kolkata to discuss ways to tackle problems with dog behavior and the growing opportunities in the dog training bangkok field of dog behavior and canine behavior.
Edugraph: What exactly is it that is the task of an animal behaviorist?
Paramita Das Dog behaviorists collaborate with pet owners to help them understand the behavior issues of their pets. They also implement a programme to assist in addressing and managing problems like these. To achieve this, these professionals analyze the behaviors of dogs, watch the interactions of dogs with owners, and then interpret and watch the dog’s body language in different situations.
How did you get into this field?
PD: After over two decades in the business world I was determined to pursue my love for doing work with animals. I realized that besides loving dogs, it’s essential to understand them better as they are totally different from humans.
Once I completed my first canine trainer’s class, I decided to help pet parents guide their dogs through positive and kinder methods. My goal was to make sure that they and their pets can enjoy a a great life together. Then I decided to complete courses about canine aggression and behaviour as well.
What are your day-to-day activities within this field?
My daily responsibilities include teaching puppies and adult dogs to be good companions, training dogs to play and have fun as well as working with families that are experiencing problems with their dogs’ behavior. I also deal with chewing and destructive behavior problems, separation anxiety, the need for attention, toilet training and fear-related issues, as well as leash walking issues and aggression issues.
What is the most frequent challenge that you’re confronted with?
PD: While most humans think that dogs are the cause, the majority of issues are caused by dog owners. There is no knowledge about the reasons why dogs behave in an esthetic way and the ways we might have contributed to the behavior. In today’s hectic and bustling pace of life, time or patience is low. This is among the major issues. When the entire family is involved in engaging with animals in a disciplined manner, things will go more smoothly.
Can you mention the techniques you employ when dealing with a dog that has problems with behavior?
PD: I usually follow techniques to help the pet’s owners understand that their dog has behavioral issues. It is essential that the entire family participate in obedience classes so they can ensure that their dog obeys in various situations and in the appropriate manner. Pet owners need to have some influence over their dog’s behavior in a positive manner. My role is to create a programme to strengthen relationships between pets and their families.
What are the most common mistakes pet owners make interacting with their pets?
Pet owners often consider their dog to be an individual or as a toy. Dogs are living thing — distinct from other species. Human beings are primates, and dog breeds are called canids. Even though dogs are our most beloved companions, some pet owners must recognize that they belong to an entirely different species. Therefore, it’s crucial to them to be aware of the dog’s species. Families should know everything about the dog breed and use that information positively.
What would you tell anyone considering bringing your puppy back to the home?
PD: Understand that your dog is a distinct species and be prepared to devote a significant amount of time and effort. Learn more about your dog –educate your puppy on acceptable behavior, take it for walks, play games with him/her , and be involved in activities that he/she is interested in.
Prepare yourself for financial obligations such as vet costs, expenses when your dog falls ill, grooming charges and boarding fees while you’re away, relocation costs. Also, it is important to establish a system of support to be in place in the event of an emergency.
In general, I believe that it is important to prepare yourself for a commitment for 12-14 years of raising an animal. We can pursue our own hobbies and interests but a dog’s life is dependent upon the human family to give them a good life. Let’s not disappoint your pet on this.
What would be your advice to children who have pets?
PD: Be involved with your dog’s daily routine. Do your best to participate in the things that your dog is truly passionate about. If you own a Labrador, take him/her to the pool. If you own an Beagle or Indie, take him/her for scent-based games in the park. Spend time with your pet and build an enduring bond. Your time spent together is all that is important.
What would be the academic and professional paths to follow if one wants to be a dog trainer and behaviorist?
It is possible to take PD courses which can be pursued to learn the information and education required to become a professional dog behaviorist. I have taken courses taught by Shirin Merchant, who is one of leaders in the area of canine behavior and education in India. I have also taken classes with John Rogerson, who is an internationally renowned trainer of dogs and behaviorist. Both Shirin and John use kinder and positive training methods that focus on building a strong relationship between the dog and his/her family.
What are the different career paths that one could pursue while being with dogs?
PD: There are a lot of opportunities within this growing field. More and more people are aware about the need to take their pets to specialists these days. Being a vet, groomer, trainer and behaviourist are a few of the most frequently used options. You could also operate an animal boarding facility. Animal rescue or working in shelters is another possibility. After a proper training it is possible to become an expert in pet nutrition.
