Name
How to Train Your Dragon (and other exotics)
Speakers
Description
Veterinary care and routine husbandry can be significant sources of stress for many reptiles and exotic companion animals—and for the people handling them. Cooperative care training offers a proactive, welfare-forward alternative, empowering animals to participate voluntarily in their own health care.
Let's explore practical, evidence-based strategies for training reptiles and other exotic species to reduce fear during veterinary visits, facilitate low-stress medical and husbandry procedures such as teeth brushing, nail trims, and weighing, and strengthen the human–animal bond through positive reinforcement. Attendees will gain an understanding of species-specific behavior considerations, environmental setup for success, appropriate reinforcers, and how to build trust by respecting communication and choice. Through case examples and actionable training plans, this session equips technicians to understand these tools to improve welfare, enhance safety, and transform routine care into cooperative care.
Session Type
Masterclass (1 Hr)