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I'm Joanne, an experienced dog behaviourist qualified to degree level in dog behaviour & training. with over 10 years of professional experience. As well as being a freelance behaviourist I work for Dogs Trust on the Behaviour Support Helpline. I am also going through the accreditation process to be a clinical animal behaviourist.
If you need help with any aspect of your dog's behaviour then you have come to the right place. JV Dog Behaviour run by Joanne Vasey Bsc FdSc offers a range of services to help owners and dogs lead happier lives. With me you can be assured of a fully qualified, professional and dedicated service that helps you and your dog get back on track. We train dogs, puppies and their people!
JV Dog Behaviour covers the Edinburgh area as well as the Lothians, Lanarkshire, the Borders and Fife. All of our services use gentle reward based methods backed up by science. We are firm believers that there is no need for force or pain in changing behaviour. Everything we do will strengthen your relationship with your dog and we know that happy dogs make happy owners!
So what makes us different? Joanne has a Bachelors degree in Animal Care plus a Foundation degree in Canine Behaviour and Training as well as over 20 years of experience when it comes to working with animals including 10 years as a behaviourist and trainer.. We believe that dog training and behaviour services should be affordable hence why we do not set prices to match others, we do what we think is right and quite often that makes us cheaper!
All animals (including dogs) have their own individual personalities and backgrounds and they all deserve to be treated with empathy and a full understanding of dog behaviour based on their genetics, breed traits, early learning experiences and any trauma suffered.
As a qualified behaviourist I only use scientifically proven methods which are kind and ethical. This does not mean simply using food rewards and ignoring bad behaviour. I also teach you how to implement boundaries and how to create consequences for unwanted behaviour but without any confrontation, pain or fear. I also show you how to build trust with your dog and support them with any fears they have. My methods give you the tools to use on a day to day basis in real life situations.
Get the ball rolling (no pun intended!) by dropping me a message. I'll ask some questions and get you a booked in for a visit. This is usually within two weeks.
While we wait I will get you to complete a background information form. For behaviour issues this gives me a head start on developing a full understanding of the problem and how we can then help. I will usually also get you to complete a vet referral form as there is a close link between behaviour and medical issues.
Most visits take place in the home environment. For some behaviour issues we will also work where the unwanted behaviour occurs, this is may be on a walk.
I work with dogs and owners who are having trouble with fear or aggression issues, resource guarding, reactivity, excessive barking, high prey drives, chewing/destructive behaviours or grooming/handling issues. Alongside behaviour issues I also offer practical hands on help with general good manners and self control training for puppies and adults dogs.
It depends! There is no magic fix when it comes to dog behaviour issues. Bad habits take time to change and if a behaviour issues stems from fear then it takes careful management and lots of repetition for the brain to form new positive associations that are long lasting. Anyone who promises quick fixes is to be avoided!
Having said that you can very often see changes quickly with simple changes. A good understanding and consistency are key. Long lasting behaviour changes should be quiet, slow paced and actually rather dull... There is no magic wand for changing behaviour despite what you see on TV. That well dressed man on Channel 5 is really not anywhere near as good as he seems...
My job is to help you gain a better understanding of your dog and advising of changes in how you interact with, or manage your dog. I coach you through any practical techniques required to ensure you have good timing and know how and when to 'train'. I may demonstrate with your dog to get things started but it is up to you to continue the work in order to see results. My behaviour advice is tailored to your dog's needs as well as your daily routine and lifestyle. My recommendations should be easy to implement and will produce results as long as you follow it! I'm always on hand to provide follow up advice where needed.
Unfortunately, no. Nobody can guarantee anything when it comes to a dog's behaviour because they are not robots. You should be very wary of anyone who guarantees anything of the sort.
The outcome of the situation depends on several things: my assessment of the issue and advice, your willing participation implementing the advice and lastly, your dog's response. There is no guarantee of being able to 'fix' a problem, some dogs have extensive fears and complex issues that cannot be fully remedied and will require lifelong management. Particularly where traumatic events have taken place and when there are health issues involved.
What I CAN guarantee is that I will use my extensive experience, skills and passion to gain a full picture of the issues and develop a personalised plan based on modern scientific understanding, using ethical reliable methods to help you to achieve the outcome that you want.