In Episode 224 of the ATA podcast show, host Ryan Cartlidge reconnects with Eva Bertilsson for an insightful part two of their conversation on cooperative care. Building on the foundational information from Episode 219, this session dives deeper into effective strategies and ideas. Through the lens of real-world scenarios, such as Fibi's [Ryan's dog] eye-cleaning discomfort, Eva shares her expertise in creating positive learning environments that respect animal autonomy and foster engagement.

Here’s a breakdown of the key themes discussed in the episode;

Understanding Animal Cues

• Observation is Key: Recognizing subtle behaviors in animals like Fibi can significantly enhance training effectiveness.
• Behavioral Responses: Discusses how animals communicate discomfort and stress, emphasizing the importance of adapting training methods accordingly.

The Role of Start Buttons

• Empowering Animals: Introduces the concept of "start buttons" in training, allowing animals to initiate interactions and training sequences.
• Creating Comfort: Focuses on building a comfortable and stress-free training environment where animals feel safe and understood.

Practical Training Insights

• Simplifying the Process: Advocates for a simplified approach to training that prioritises positive reinforcement and allows for opting out.
• Avoiding Aversives: Warns against the use of aversives in training, suggesting they can lead to avoidant behaviors.
• Engagement Over Rules: Encourages focusing on the overall attitude and engagement of learners, rather than strict adherence to specific rules.

Through Eva Bertilsson's expertise and Ryan Cartlidge’s thoughtful questioning, listeners are offered a masterclass in refining their training practices to be more aligned with the needs and well-being of their animal companions. This episode serves as a reminder of the transformative power of empathy, observation, and respect in the world of animal training and specifically with cooperative care.