If you’re struggling with your pet’s behaviour, calling in the professionals can sound expensive. Luckily, if you know what support your pet really needs, you can spend your money wisely – or even find help for free.
Did you know that you can get free support from Woodgreen? We offer behavioural help for a range of species – from phone consultations and advice visits to online workshops and self-led courses. Your pet doesn’t need to be a former Woodgreen resident, either!
What we offer:
If you’re not local to our centre in Cambridgeshire, you can try the Animal Behaviour and Training Council. They can help you find a professional in your area who cares about your pet’s emotional well-being and welfare just as much as you do.
Looking for dog training help? Check out our virtual training guides
To make sure you’re spending money on the right type of support, look for professionals who use reward-based methods. They’ll use food, treats or toys to reward good behaviours – not punishments for unwanted ones.
Someone can call themselves a trainer or behaviourist without any specific training or qualifications. So, with so many behaviourists and trainers out there, it’s hard to know which way to turn.
You might come across trainers who claim to have a ‘quick fix’ for your pet’s behavioural problems. Their videos on social media might look impressive, but there’s rarely ever a shortcut for behaviours like aggression. These claims risk not only the welfare of your pet but can also cause more serious issues – as well as extra, long-term costs.
Trainers who talk about dominance, pack theory or being the ‘boss’ of your pet, are outdated in their thinking, and not using the latest science-based training. Our pets need clear guidance and boundaries set out in a caring way.
If you have a dog, and they’re insured, check if your insurance company covers behaviourist support. You may be able to claim the fees back.
Our website is packed with free resources to help you understand your pets and their needs.
Click on the links below to find out more:
Looking for more tips? Visit our page on how to save money as a pet owner.
At Woodgreen, our dedicated team of behavioural and training specialists offer expert pet advice online, on the phone and in person – helping at every step of the pet ownership journey.
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Woodgreen's Community Support Manager, Chris Bennett, gives his top tips for saving money on pet care without compromising welfare.
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