��� APPENDICES
When looking for a behaviour expert it is important to identify
someone with a combination of appropriate qualifications,
up-to-date knowledge, skills and experience. Their methods must
be compatible with modern practice, i.e. positive, reward-based
methods, and should not put the animal's welfare at risk.
The Animal Behaviour and Training Council (www.abtc.org.uk) is
a regulatory council that represents animal trainers and animal
behaviour therapists. It develops, sets and maintains the standards
of knowledge and practical skills needed to be an animal trainer
or animal behaviour therapist, and maintains a national register
of appropriately qualified animal trainers and animal behaviourists.
A list of these can be found at: www.abtcouncil.org.uk/
find-a-trainer-behaviourist
Appendix IV: Muzzle training
Muzzle selection
It is important to choose the correct type of muzzle, as it must
be the correct size and shape for the breed/type of dog. Muzzles
come in a range of sizes to fit all skull shapes and lengths, so care
should be taken to ensure the right one is selected.
The muzzle should be of the 'basket' type - an open mesh
that allows free flow of air. It must be securely fitted to prevent
the dog biting but must allow the dog to pant, drink and
vomit safely.
Introducing a dog to a muzzle
The muzzle should be introduced gradually, with lots of rewards
given when the dog shows relaxed and positive behaviour. The
muzzle should never be forced onto a dog - the aim should be
to go slowly enough for the dog never to feel anxious or scared.
The procedure should be broken down into very small steps.
1. Show the dog the muzzle. The dog should be rewarded as
soon as he or she shows any interest in the muzzle.
2. Let the dog place his/her nose inside the muzzle to retrieve
a food treat. A small treat should either be placed in the
nose end of the muzzle or held so that the dog can get to
it by placing his/her head into the muzzle. This should be
repeated regularly until the dog is happily taking food treats
from inside the muzzle.
3. Increase the time the dog has his/her nose inside the muzzle
in return for a treat. Once the dog is happy placing his/her
nose inside the muzzle for a treat, hold the muzzle in place
for a few seconds and feed a second treat through the mesh,
gradually increasing the time the muzzle is held in place.
Appendix III: Behaviour experts 4. Move the straps. Again, give lots of rewards for
relaxed behaviour.
5. Do up the straps. Once the dog is comfortable and
happy with the straps being moved, the muzzle straps can
be fastened.
6. Keep the muzzle on for short periods. For example, keep
the muzzle on during enjoyable events like walks. The
number of steps you take and how fast you progress will
depend on the individual dog - some will learn quickly,
others may take a little time. The aim is to progress steadily
to avoid any anxiety or aversion and to reward all relaxed
and positive behaviour immediately. This will help the dog
to associate the muzzle with pleasant events and stop
him/her from being frightened when the muzzle is used
at a later date.
26 MEETING THE WELFARE NEEDS OF SEIZED DOGS IN A KENNEL ENVIRONMENT
Andrew Forsyth/RSPCA Photolibrary