About A Pawsitive Improvement

What they offer

A Pawsitive Improvement, in Brandon, centers on behavior modification. Its home page describes applied behavioral analysis and modification for dogs that are anxious in everyday situations, uncomfortable around people and other dogs, or that bark, lunge or pull on the leash when they see another dog, and says this work is designed to address fear, reactivity and aggression. It notes that some basic obedience may be taught along the way, but that the main focus is the dog's underlying emotional issues.

Other programs

The same page describes cooperative care – teaching a dog to accept brushing, nail trims, ear drops, medications and vet or groomer handling without fear – and AKC Scent Work classes at levels one and two. The site menu also lists a Service Dog Program page; ask what that program involves.

Approach

The home page sets out a position against aversive training, stating that it does not support choke chains, prong collars, electronic shock collars or other harmful means, and that it works by addressing the environment and finding the right motivations. To start, the page asks owners to fill out a behavioral questionnaire.