Purdue News

April 16, 1999 Observers welcome at course about dog behavior WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. -- Purdue University's School of Veterinary Medicine is offering three weekend seminars about canine behavior modification. The course, called "Dogs! Principles and Techniques of Behavior Modification," is being taught over the weekends of May 22-23, June 19-20 and July 24-25. Lead instructor for the course is Dr. Andrew Luescher, associate professor of veterinary clinical sciences and certified animal behaviorist who is director of Purdue's Animal Behavior Clinic. An unlimited number of persons may attend the seminars to observe the instruction. They will watch as Luescher trains about 40 participants who are taking the course for certification in dog behavior training. The cost for observers is $175 for each weekend or $475 for all three. The fees include instructional materials, lunches and snack breaks. Hotel or university housing will cost extra. Persons who observe the classes will learn about puppy development, new research in the field, learning theory and behavior modification techniques. "Owners and professionals who work with animals could benefit greatly from this learning opportunity," Luescher said. Each weekend will cover a different topic: Problem prevention and owner education will be taught in May; behavior modification basics will be covered in June; and behavior problems and treatment techniques will be the topic in July. For more information or to register, contact Cindy Sargent, conference coordinator, at (765) 496-3978 or (800) 359-2968 ext. 92C. Purdue's Animal Behavior Clinic also offers puppy classes for owners of young dogs. For a schedule of classes and more information, contact the clinic at (765) 494-8154. CONTACT: Luescher, (765) 494-1107 Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; e-mail, purduenews@purdue.edu To the Purdue News and Photos Page