If you’re a dog-parent is the case, then you need to know that responsible pet ownership along with positive training and greater understanding help to ensure the wellbeing that your dog is a member of your family.
We caught up with Paramita Das, a canine trainer and behaviorist in Kolkata to discuss ways to address problems with dog behavior and the growing opportunities in the dog training bangkok area of dog training and dog behavior.
Edugraph: What exactly is the job of an animal behaviorist?
Paramita Das: Dog behaviorists work with pet owners to assist them in understanding the behavior issues of their dogs. They also develop a program that helps address and manage problems like these. To do so, these experts analyze the behaviour patterns of dogs, watch the interactions among dogs and owners and interpret and observe the body language of dogs in various settings.
How did you enter this field?
PD: Having spent more than two decades in the world of work I was determined to pursue my love for doing work with animals. I realized that besides loving dogs, it’s vital to understand them better as they are an entirely different species than humans.
Once I completed my first canine trainer’s class, I wanted to help pet parents teach their dogs to be more positive and kinder methods. My goal was to make sure that they as well as their pet family members could enjoy a the best time together. After that, I went on to study courses regarding canine aggression and behavior as well.
What are your typical tasks in this job?
My daily activities include training young puppies and adult dogs to be great canines, preparing dogs to play fun games and working with families who are facing behavior issues with their dogs. I also work with chewing and destructive behavior and separation anxiety issues. toilet training fears, leash walking issues and aggression issues.
What is the most frequent challenge you’re faced with?
PD: While a majority of people think that dogs are the problem, a lot of the issues stem from those who own pets. There is an absence of knowledge about why dogs behave the way they do and how we might have contributed to the behavior. In the present hectic and hectic pace of life, time as well as patience are low. This is among the major problems. When the entire family is involved in taking care of your pets in a disciplined manner, things become smoother.
Are you able to describe the strategies you follow while dealing with a dog that has behavioral issues?
PD: I primarily follow techniques to help the pet’s owner understand the dog’s behavior is due to behavior issues. It’s crucial that your family members participate in obedience training to ensure that the dog follows them at all times and behaves in a way that is acceptable. Pet owners should have some control over their dog’s behavior in an acceptable manner. My responsibility is to develop an initiative to improve relationships between family members and their dog.
What are some common errors pet owners make engaging with their dogs?
PD: Many pet owners consider their dog to be humans or a toy. A dog is a living thing — a different species. Humans are primates while the dogs belong to canids. Although dogs are among our most beloved companions, some pet owners should recognize that they are an entirely different species. Therefore, it’s crucial for them to know the dog’s species. Families must know all they can about the breeds of their dogs and use that information in a positive manner.
What advice would you give to someone planning to bring your puppy home?
PD: Recognize that the dog is distinct species and be prepared to invest a lot of time and effort. Be aware of your dog’s behaviorinstill a positive behaviour, take him/her on walks, play appropriate games with him/her and become involved in activities that he/she is interested in.
Prepare for financial commitments such as vet bills, costs in the event that your dog is sick, grooming charges and boarding fees during your absence as well as relocation expenses. Also, you should put an emergency plan for an emergency.
In general, I believe that you must be prepared for a commitment for 12 to 14 years in the process of bringing an animal. It is possible to pursue your personal interests and hobbies, but a dog’s reliance is on its human family to give them a good life. Let’s not disappoint your pet in that.
What advice do you have to young people who already own a pet?
Participate in the daily life of your dog. Do your best to participate in the activities that your dog is truly passionate about. If you have Labradors, go for a dip. If you own an Beagle or Indie then take them out for scenting games in a park. Spend quality moment with your furry friend to build strong bonds. Your time spent together is all that matters.
What are the educational and professional paths to follow if one wants to be a dog behaviorist or trainer?
The PD: There are courses available to gain the knowledge and training required to be an experienced dog behaviorist. I’ve taken classes taught by Shirin Merchant who is one of those pioneering in the field of dog behavior and instruction in India. I have also completed courses taught by John Rogerson, who is an internationally recognized canine trainer and behaviorist. They both Shirin and John utilize gentle and positive methods of training, which focus on creating a strong bond between the dog’s family.
What are the possible career paths one can follow while working with dogs?
PD A lot of opportunities within this growing field. The public is becoming more aware of the necessity to bring the pets they love to specialists in recent times. The roles of a vet groomer, trainer, and behaviorist are some of the most frequently used options. You could also operate an animal boarding house. Animal rescue and working at a shelter is another option. After a proper training you can also turn into a pet nutritionist.
