She is an Accredited Dog Trainer and Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). One of the most prestigious animal behavior certification entities in the world. As a certified member of IAABC, Emily is mandated to adhere to the LIMA principle of dog training:
“What Is LIMA? “LIMA” is an acronym for the phrase “least intrusive, minimally aversive.” LIMA describes a trainer or behavior consultant who uses the least intrusive, minimally aversive strategy out of a set of humane and effective tactics likely to succeed in achieving a training or behavior change objective. LIMA adherence also requires consultants to be adequately educated and skilled in order to ensure that the least intrusive and aversive procedure is used. 1 LIMA does not justify the use of punishment in lieu of other effective interventions and strategies. In the vast majority of cases, desired behavior change can be affected by focusing on the animal's environment, physical well-being, and operant and classical interventions such as differential reinforcement of an alternative behavior, desensitization, and counter-conditioning. LIMA Is Competence-Based LIMA requires trainers/consultants to work to increase the use of positive reinforcement and eliminate the use of punishment when working with animal and human clients.”(Cited from IAABC website: www.iaabc.org)Old-school methods are not effective and in many cases are down right in-humane. It is not necessary to use ‘dominance’ to get compliance from dogs! Regardless of the breed or age, Emily has expertise in using positive applied behavior theory to shape behavior and modify poor behavior. She is an expert in coaching novice and expert dog owners in use of positive reinforcement and operant and classical conditioning to get a dog to respond happily and willingly!
