Ep 74: Supporting Frustrated Shelter Dogs with Tom Candy

02/26/24 • 57 min

In episode 74, Marissa Martino interviews Tom Candy about shelter dogs that experience frustration. They discuss the 3 R's - Risk assessment, Reduce (management strategies), and Resolve (behavior modification and teaching skills). Tom provides examples of interventions that he and his team implement to reduce a dog's stress level in the shelter environment.

A passion for animal welfare and training led Tom to undertake a Bachelor of Science (Hons) degree in bio-veterinary science and a Master of Science degree in clinical animal behavior from the University of Lincoln in the United Kingdom. Since graduating, Tom has been working at Dogs Trust as a training and behavior advisor, eventually working in seven rehoming centers before being promoted to senior training and behavior advisor, where he supports the training and behavior teams across the southwest United Kingdom. Tom is responsible for supporting and advising managers and training and behavior advisors on matters relating to behavioral concerns, and for helping to promote higher levels of welfare for dogs.

Tom is a Certified clinical animal behaviorist with the Animal Behaviour and Training Council in the United Kingdom, and a Certified canine behavior consultant and Certified shelter behavior specialist with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.

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Ep 73: Stranger-directed Aggression with Lisa Mullinax

In episode 73, Marissa Martino interviews Lisa Mullinax to discuss stranger-directed aggression. Lisa defines the difference between reactivity and aggression. She talks about the reasons why these cases are high stakes and how to support both the dog and the client. Lisa also shares how she builds custom behavior plans for ultimate success.

Lisa Mullinax is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. She utilizes positive reinforcement strategies with all dogs and adapts the lessons and exercises to each dog, depending on their needs. Lisa helps dogs and their humans overcome training and behavior challenges through the use of practical, positive strategies. Lisa previously managed the behavior programs at Seattle Humane and Denver Dumb Friends League, developed a new behavior program for the Sacramento SPCA, and consulted for multiple animal shelters throughout Northern California.

Next Episode

Ep 75: Embracing your Dog as your Mirror with Annika McDade

In episode 75, Marissa Martino interviews Annika McDade to discuss the healing power of our canine relationships. Both Annika and Marissa have a passion for encouraging pet parents to see their relationship with their dogs as an opportunity for personal development. They get vulnerable during this episode and share how their dogs have presented growth opportunities in not-so-ideal ways. They present innovative thoughts about incorporating this work into the training process and encourage listeners to think beyond dog training.

Annika McDade is the Founder of Canine Connection Training, a well-recognized, Vancouver-based dog training company. She is a triple-certified Behaviour Consultant and Human Coach with a passion for facilitating a conscious connection between dogs and their people. Her greatest desire is to dive deeper into supporting the human end of the leash. Annika combines a unique balance of science-based knowledge, self-development, and spiritual curiosity when working with clients.