CANINE Behavioural Training Seminar and Workshop,

Our canine behaviour training seminar and workshop held on 21st and 22nd July drew good response from the public. We expected about 50-80 participants but had an attendance of more than 100 on the first day and about 65 on the second. Participants comprised trainers, pet shop owners and mainly dog owners who were curious to know what canine behaviour was all about and how it could help them to train their pups.

Seminar presenter, Terry Ryan, promotes an understanding of canine behaviour and the way dogs think as the basis for effective training. She advocates a positive approach and kind and natural methods, using praise and rewards rather than punishment. Ms Ryan has spent time researching on wolves (from which the dog species evolved) in order to get a better understanding of dog behavior and on training chickens (yes, chickens!) in order to test reinforcement methods.

During the seminar, she touched on leadership, space and territory issues, breed, environmental enrichment, cause of problem behaviors and lateral thinking. Participants of the seminar and workshop were given a certificate of attendance.

Judging from feedback we obtained from participants, the seminar and workshop was well received, with many wanting the program to continue.

We would like to organize more of these seminars and are working on a regular program.