How has completing the Dog Trainer Professional program and becoming a KPA CTP (Certified Training Partner) changed your life and career?

Completing the DTP program and earning my KPA CTP credential has been a transformative experience. Not only am I now equipped with the expertise to engage with instructors and discuss behavior modification effectively in my current role as the KPA Education Initiatives Coordinator, but my KPA credentials have also proven invaluable in the zoo world. As applied behavior work and behavioral welfare take center stage in animal care, holding a skills-tested certification carries significant weight.

Was there a particular dog/animal in your life that was your most important teacher?

I once worked with a silvery-cheeked hornbill with a history of aggressive behavior. She taught me invaluable lessons in patience, choice, and counter-conditioning. Initially, my goal was simply to conduct routine cleaning in her space while ensuring her comfort and, ideally, sparking her curiosity. After about a month of offering non-contingent reinforcers and waiting patiently for her to invite closer interaction, the hornbill began actively seeking attention as I passed by. Eventually, I felt confident enough to open the door and offer her a piece of fruit. Within a few weeks, we developed a close bond. In fact, this hornbill became so attached to me that she insisted on feeding me the fruit bits I used as reinforcers, inadvertently teaching me about secondary reinforcers in the process. She will always be one of my favorite learners and teachers.

Is there any species that you would love to work with?

I’ve always been fascinated by the hoatzin (Ophisthocomus hoazin), also known as the stinkbird. While many birds exhibit dinosaur-like characteristics, the hoatzin stands out for its unique and intriguing traits. I highly recommend delving into the mysteries surrounding this crop-fermenting folivore, which hatches with claws on its wings. These are just a few of the features that, despite full-genome sequencing, make the Hoatzin remain a uniquely perplexing species.

What do you do to continue your training education?

In addition to managing the KPA LIVE Class programs and participating in every class, I actively seek learning opportunities through KPA’s On-Demand courses, conferences, and webinars, as well as through programs hosted on other platforms. I also augment my knowledge by delving into peer-reviewed work in behavior analysis and related fields. I often find myself chasing intriguing topics and diving deep via a variety of educational avenues.