The Dog Behavior Institute Blog
Interview with Kaitlin Rondeau, DVM
This month we are so pleased to introduce you to Kaitlin Rondeau, DVM. Kaitlin works at Concord Animal Hospital in Concord, MA. Kaitlin has been such a wonderful resource, always willing to brainstorm and research the best approaches to our dogs’ care. I (Stephanie) was thrilled to interview Kaitlin for this series and learn more about what it is like to work with dogs as a veterinarian and what we can do to help our dogs be more comfortable with their veterinary care.
I can finally lift my arm again, and how that relates to dog training
When we work with families and dogs who are struggling with behavior challenges, it can be clear that one reinforcer is for the problem to be “fixed.” But a “fixed” behavior, whatever that looks like in the situation, is often a long way off. That is not the immediate reinforcer for the work that you are doing in the meantime on your way there. So instead, look for the small reinforcers. What are the things that remind you that you are reaching just a little bit farther, and that it is just a little bit more comfortable when you do it?