Ask Ashley: Great Plains SPCA

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Animal expert, Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA, is the Director of Animal Behavior & Training at Great Plains SPCA. Ashley has more than 16 years of experience in animal training and behavior.

My dog absolutely hates the doorbell and acts like Cujo when anyone rings it. He is friendly with visitors, but just really hates the doorbell. What can I do to get him to stop barking at the doorbell? – Ruben Jacobs

I recommend teaching him to do something else when he hears the doorbell. Have him watch you ring the doorbell (so he knows it is you making the noise, not a visitor) then lure him to his bed and reward him when he is lying down and quiet. Repeat this to desensitize him to the sound of the bell. Then have a friend or neighbor ring the doorbell while you encourage him to lie down and be quiet. When he starts going to the bed on his own, make sure to give him a big reward for this behavior. – Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA

Is using treats considered bribery during dog training? Do I need to keep giving my dog treats once he has learned a new command? – Olivia Howell

Treats are reinforcers and a great way to teach pets new commands through luring. Dogs, like humans, like to be reinforced for their good behavior. Would you go to work every week if your employer stopped paying you? Treats are not the only rewards that your pet might like. Some pets like attention, petting, toys, or playtime as a reward instead of treats. – Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA

I just adopted a cat from a local animal shelter. I was wondering if you can you train a cat and if so, how you do it? - Geraldine Obrien

Thank you so much for adopting! Yes, you can really train cats! Training cats is like training dogs. Start with a treat that your cat really likes and is willing to work for. First try simple tricks to show your cat that good things happen when they display desirable behaviors. Keep training sessions short (10 – 15 minutes) and positive so your cat is eager to participate. Cats do well with clicker training since they are very time-oriented creatures and enjoy routines. For some cats the clicker noise is reward enough! Training your cat is a great way to bond with your pet. – Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA

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Babs is a darling two-year-old terrier mix who is ready to find her forever home. She loves exploring new places and hiking as much as snuggling up to her favorite people and doling out affection. She is obsessed with toys, is very treat motivated and loves to be with her people. She has great house manners and is housetrained. Babs is looking for a home where she can shine as the only pet, and she will thrive with consistent exercise and continued training. With Babs around, your life is sure to be bright! Contact adoptions@greatplainsspca.org to learn more.

Email askashley@greatplainsspca.org for a chance to have your pet question answered here in KC Parent magazine.

Great Plains SPCA is an independent 501(c)(3) no-kill shelter serving approximately 6,000 animals annually in the Johnson County community. As Kansas City’s premium family shelter, we continue to support the seven municipalities with which we are contracted including Overland Park, Leawood, Lenexa, Shawnee, Lake Quivira, and Johnson County Parks and Recreation and unincorporated Johnson County.

Great Plains SPCA

5424 Antioch Drive Merriam, KS 66202

(913) 831-7722(SPCA)

https://www.greatplainsspca.org