Is the Need to be “Like-Minded” Killing Dogs?

By Billie Groom

In a recent "chinwag" with a colleague, we discussed common topics surrounding animal welfare, which was pleasant. Then I asked about her upcoming conference on canine behavior and welfare. She became visibly uncomfortable.

"Well, there will be a lot of positive reinforcement trainers there, so you may not be comfortable." I laughed (jerk reaction). I am well-seasoned being in these environments. She continued to explain that is a conference for "like-minded" professionals.

"So, is the goal of the conference to be a gathering of positive reinforcement trainers? Or a platform to expand education and encourage discussions?" I asked. She stumbled on the answer, finally deciding on "both."

I thought about this after our chat. What is "like-minded?" Is it possible to expand our knowledge while remaining in a comfort zone? Should "like-minded" be associated with the mutual goal of providing effective, non-aversive strategies to pet parents to overcome behaviors leading to surrender, euthanasia, and harmful measure, or in the specific strategy to achieve this?

Dog trainers are so often focused on ensuring that negative reinforcement is squashed (influenced by standard industry leaders) that they limit their own professional growth by closing their mind to other non-aversive, effective methods (which, inherently, aid in preventing the use of negative measures). Pet parents rely on these professionals to have the skills to meet their needs, or else they will "give-up" or look elsewhere (they do not hold an allegiance to a method or a community), leading to either harmful measures (exactly what the industry is trying to prevent) or discovering the world of psychotherapy!

So, I may not speak or attend the conference, but the question remains, "What is the goal of a "like-minded" community? It would be interesting to put forth the question to her community of like-minded trainers? Maybe.... just maybe, they will be brave enough to put the needs of their clients, and the lives of dogs, ahead of their comfort.

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