New Online Journal from IAABC

Continuing their expansion into the animal behavior education space, the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) announced the first issue of their new journal, available online today at http://iaabc.org/resources/journal.

The journal is aimed at sharing best practices and insights into solving behavior problems across all of IAABC’s divisions: Dog, Cat, Parrot, Horse, Shelter and Working Animals. This issue’s authors include Sally Foote, DVM, who works extensively in fear-free handling; award-winning blogger Eileen Anderson; and Karen Pryor Academy faculty member Laura Monaco Torelli.

Format and focus make the IAABC journal unique, with videos embedded alongside text. Including video has allowed authors to show behavior problems and solutions directly, which gives the reader a clearer picture of the practical applications of science-based approaches to behavior modification.

IAABC aims to make high-quality education in animal behavior accessible to everyone. Therefore, the journal is free to read online for members and non-members alike.

The journal will be published three times a year, with the next issue scheduled for release in early October. The editing team is currently seeking new authors and case studies, especially individuals from diverse backgrounds and with unique areas of expertise.

The IAABC is a professional organization whose mission is to support its members in promoting Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) principles in their work with companion animals, and to become a resource for the public. We strive to assist companion animals and their humans by interrupting and preventing the cycle of inappropriate punishment, rejection, and euthanasia of animals due to behavior problems. The IAABC promotes professionalism and continuing education in the field of animal behavior consulting.

The IAABC was founded in 2004, recognizing that the practice of assisting the public with companion animal behavior problems was a growing field that encompassed many different professionals: veterinarians, animal trainers, animal shelter employees, academics as well as practicing consultants who didn't always fit neatly into one of the aforementioned categories.

Our goals were to standardize and support the practice of companion animal behavior consulting, while providing resources for pet owners needing advice. The organization is growing and currently has over 700 members throughout the world.

IAABC members have diverse practices and methodologies, and believe in the study and science of behavior consulting. We understand that animal behavior consultants can assist owners in managing and modifying problem behaviors, and in the process help strengthen the relationships between an owner and pet.

The IAABC provides networking and educational opportunities for members through on-line discussion groups, guided studies, webinars and conferences. We offer three tiers of membership in five different divisions (dog, cat, parrot, horse, working animal) to match different interests and skill levels. Certified and Associate members are listed in our Member Locator at no additional fee.

Animal behavior consultants respect the client's right to self-determination and embrace a non-judgmental approach. Our Certified members are required to demonstrate competency in six core areas including assessment and intervention strategies, consulting skills, knowledge of animal behavior, and species-specific knowledge. Our Certified Associate members are required to show competence in at least three of the six core areas of competence.

IAABC members work to minimize the use of aversive stimuli and maximize the effective use of reinforcers to modify animal behavior. The LIMA (least intrusive and minimally aversive) principle is useful as a general rule. Within that framework, the IAABC welcomes diversity and openness. Positive regard, and respect for differences are among our core values.

International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
Jesse Miller, Managing Editor - journal@iaabc.org
Cranberry Township, PA
USA

This release was published on openPR.