If you’re a dog-parent is the case, then you need to know that responsible pet ownership as well as positive training and greater understanding help 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, a dog trainer and behaviorist from Kolkata, to discuss how to handle dog behavior issues as well as the increasing opportunities in the dog training bangkok area of dog training as well as canine behavior.
What exactly is it that is the task of an animal behaviorist?
Paramita Das: Dog behaviorists help pet owners assist them in understanding the behaviors of their dogs. They also create a plan to assist in addressing and managing the issues. To achieve this, these professionals study the behavior patterns of dogs, watch the interactions of dogs with owners, and interpret and observe the body language of dogs in various situations.
What brought you into this field?
PD: Having spent more than two decades working in working in the corporate world I was determined to pursue my passion of working with dogs. I realized that besides loving dogs, it’s important to get to know their needs as they’re a completely different species from humans.
After I completed my first canine trainer’s course, I wanted to help pet parents guide their dogs through an approach that is positive and gentle. My goal was to ensure that both they and their pets can enjoy a the best time together. After that I proceeded to attend classes about canine aggression and behaviour as well.
What are your day-to-day activities in this profession?
My daily responsibilities include teaching puppies and adult dogs to be excellent pets, and teaching dogs to play fun games and working with families who are facing behavioral issues with their dogs. I also deal with chewing and destructive behaviour, separation anxiety issues, attention-seeking behaviour, toilet practice anxiety issues, fear, aggression and leash walking issues.
What’s the biggest challenge you’re facing?
PD: Although the majority of us believe that the dog is the problem, a lot of issues primarily stem from dog owners. There is no understanding of the reason dogs behave in particular ways and how humans may have contributed to that behavior. In today’s busy and hectic pace of life, both time and patience levels are limited. This is one of the main challenges. When the entire family is involved in managing your pets in a structured manner, things become smoother.
Can you describe the procedures you use when dealing with a dog that has behavioral issues?
PD: I primarily follow techniques to help the pet’s owner understand why their dog is exhibiting behaviors issues. It is essential that the entire family participate in obedience classes so that their dog is able to obey them at all times and behaves in a way that is acceptable. Pet owners should have some influence on their dog’s behavior an appropriate way. My responsibility is to develop an approach to build the bonds between the dogs and family members.
What are the most common errors pet owners make communicating with their dogs?
Many pet owners treat their dogs as an individual or as a toy. A dog is a living being , an entirely different species. Human Beings are primates, and dogs are canids. Although dogs are among our best friends, some dog owners should recognize that they belong to a different species. Therefore, it’s crucial that they understand the canine species. Families must be knowledgeable about the breed of their dogs and use that information to their advantage.
What would you advise someone planning to bring a puppy at home?
PD: Understand that your dog is a different species , and you must be prepared to devote a significant amount of effort and time. Know your dog better –and teach your puppy to be a good behaviour, take him/her on walks, play appropriate games with him/her and become an active participant in the activities your dog enjoys.
Prepare for financial commitments like vet bills, expenses in the event that your dog is sick, grooming charges, boarding charges when you are away, relocation costs. You also need to put the right support system to be in place in the event of any emergency.
In general, I believe that you should be prepared for a long-term commitment of 12-14 years to bring the dog to a good home. We are able to pursue our individual interests and hobbies but a dog’s reliance is on his family members to ensure a happy life. So, let’s not let your pet down on this.
What advice would you give to children who already have a pet?
PD: Be involved in the life of your dog. Try to be part of the activities your dog really loves. If you have Labradors, go for a swim. If you have an Beagle or Indie you can take them for sniffing games in a park. Spend moments with your dog to develop strong bonds. Your time spent together is all that matters.
What are the possible academic and professional routes to take if someone would like to become a dog behaviorist or trainer?
It is possible to take PD classes that you can take to acquire the skills and experience required to become an experienced dog behaviorist. I’ve taken classes taught by Shirin Merchant who is one of the pioneers in the discipline of canine behavior as well as behavior training within India. I also have taken courses taught by John Rogerson, who is a world-renowned canine trainer and behaviorist. Both Shirin and John use kinder and positive methods of training that are focused on building a strong relationship between the dog and its family.
What are the careers you can pursue when working with dogs?
PD The world is full of opportunities in this growing field. People are becoming more aware about the need to take your pets to a specialist in recent times. Being a vet, groomer, trainer, and behaviorist are some of the most common options. You can also run the boarding center for dogs. Animal rescue and working at shelters is also an option. After a proper training you could also be a pet nutrition consultant.
