Industry professionals praise new behaviour courses
Behaviour counsellor and author Karen Wild paid tribute to the high quality of the courses.
Three newly developed animal behaviour courses have proved an instant hit with industry professionals and potential students alike, after their launch was announced by the Central College of Animal Studies.
Veterinary behaviour course leader Loni Loftus announced the launch of the new courses at a recent companion animal behaviour CPD workshop, hosted by Suffolk-based Central College.
Aimed at veterinary surgeons and qualified veterinary nurses, the courses have been developed to promote flexible, work-based learning, stressing both practical capabilities and academic study.
Commenting on the launch, canine behaviour counsellor and author Karen Wild praised the courses for "exceeding industry standards in many areas through inclusion of high quality subject matter."
Likewise, David Ryan, certified clinical animal behaviourist and Emeritus Chair of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors spoke highly of the "level and blend of theory and practical mentored learning that balances in-depth knowledge of the subject with hands-on experience, both of which are required by every professional practitioner."
The new behaviour courses are aimed at veterinary surgeons and qualified nurses 
Course leader Loni Loftus has more than 10 years experience working in equine training and behaviour and practises as a companion animal behaviourist - with a wide ranging case load of dogs, cats and horses.
Commenting on the new courses, she said: "The diplomas have been developed in response to an increase in the level of interest surrounding companion animal training and behaviour, and to provide a joining of the in-depth theoretical knowledge and practical experience required to be effective in practice.
"Each diploma facilitates student progression and aims to promote high welfare, research-led procedures and practices that benefit animals, their carers, trainers and the behavioural medicine sector in general.
"These diplomas are distinctive in that they deliver and assess a high level of academic rigour alongside practical application of the theory learned – a combination sure to nurture the development of animal trainers and behaviourists alike."
Programme leader Loni Loftus.
It also offers students a platform to study and discuss the ethics surrounding the keeping and training of animals. This includes appropriate interactions with animals, their owners and external organisations. The diploma meets the standards for the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) Animal Trainer.
Building upon this training, students can progress to the Advanced Diploma in Companion Animal Training which involves the study of human and family psychology, alongside animal anatomy, physiology, health and behaviour.
The aim is to improve theoretical and practical knowledge of the psychological and physiological factors that impact on relationships between animal and owner.
With an emphasis on psychology, the course equips students with the skills to teach owners effective methods of animal training, as well as the ability to detect different learning styles and personalities in clients. The advanced qualification meets the standards for ABTC Animal Training Instructor.
Finally, the Professional Diploma in Clinical Animal Behaviour has been designed for those responsible for planning and managing humane approaches to inappropriate behaviour in animals.
Central College says this course provides students with the skills to evaluate, prevent and address inappropriate, problematic or dangerous animal behaviours - developing suitable environments and effective treatments based on scientific evidence and best practice.
Study topics include behavioural ethology, companion animal law and ethics, human and family psychology and therapies and pharmacology associated with companion animal behaviour. The course meets the standards for ABTC Clinical Animal Behaviourist.
For further information see www.ccoas.org.uk or email enquiries@ccoas.org.uk
The RCVS has announced a new version of its 1CPD mobile app, with enhanced features for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to record their continuing professional development.
