A Complete Guide to Understanding Our Two Best Friends
Available Spring of 2009!
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OVERVIEW:The most critical component of a successful, effective human-animal relationship is a thorough understanding of the behavior, communication patterns, and learning techniques that govern their social interactions. This book does just that. Well-researched and comprehensive, CANINE AND FELINE BEHAVIOR: A COMPLETE GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING OUR TWO BEST FRIENDS provides solid and accessible information that students can immediately apply for improved success in training and behavior modification programs for both dogs and cats. Coverage begins with evolutionary histories and domestication, focusing on normal communication and social, predatory, aggressive, and fear-related behavior patterns. After setting this foundational knowledge, the book then delves into learning theory and its real-world application to dogs and cats in terms of behavior prevention, training, and modification. Wrapping up with an in-depth look at common behavior problems and approaches to manage these problems, it is a valuable reference guide for students in undergraduate companion animal science programs, veterinary technician programs, and any veterinary medicine behavior course. |
FEATURES:
- Incorporates over 50 detailed illustrations and photographs of dog and cat body language and communication signals
- Emphasizes non-confrontational methods based on positive reinforcement to encourage use of only humane methods of training.
- Offers exciting, real-world case studies that show theory and behavior modification at work
- Provides step-by-step instructions for teaching desirable behaviors and preventing unwanted behaviors in dogs and cats
- Includes extensive reference list and recommended readings for each topic so readers have additional resources at their fingertips
REVIEWS
“This book is well-researched, absolutely thorough and brimming with sound information. A splendid antidote to the fads, content-free drivel and made-up junk that plagues the popular dog behavior literature”. Jean Donaldson, Director of The San Francisco SPCA Academy for Dog Trainers
“Linda Case builds on well-documented evidence regarding the evolution of dog and cat behavior, and presents training and behavior problem solving within this ethological context. The fundamentals of learning theory are presented in a clear fashion and many examples are provided. Case provides substantial documentation to support her descriptions, while at the same time, avoiding excessive jargon and terminology. Most important is that she takes the time to debunk shallow and "pop" presentations of such concepts as dominance and the role of punishment.” Stephen Zawistowski, Ph.D., CAAB, Executive Vice President, ASPCA
"This book is destined to become a classic textbook for students of dog behavior, but should also be of interest to every pet dog owner and enthusiast in the country. The book contains all of the information from an outstanding knowledge of theory, but more importantly from Linda Case's own personal experience as a dog trainer and behaviorist." John Rogerson, founder and principal lecturer of the Northern Centre for Canine Behavior and author of seven books
“As one who lives and works with both dogs and cats, I am very pleased to see them discussed together in this text. The side-by-side comparison of their domestication processes, developmental stages, body language, and behavior issues is valuable to anyone who lives or works with, or cares for them and wants to help them. Whether the reader is a student of veterinary science, shelter worker or rescue foster, trainer or behavior consultant, owner or potential adopter, this text is packed with up-to-date scientific information, written in a very digestible format. Each chapter contains references to the best scholarly texts available. Thank goodness Linda Case has done the work for us to be able to access such an approachable compilation of vital material. All of us – and especially cats, dogs, and owners – will be better off for it. I need two copies – one for reference and one to loan out.” Janet Velenovsky CPDT, CDBC-TAC, Animal Behavior Consultant
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