Mad Dog Manor Canine Consultations is an animal behaviorist specializing in working with captive wild animals, rescue, and shelter companion animals. Their special interest lies in working with deaf and blind dogs. With a PhD and IAABC-ADT certification, they serve as the owner and operator of this establishment.
Their training methods incorporate a variety of techniques, including treats, toys, contingent access to play activities, and time-out. They utilize clicker training, sign training for deaf dogs, and touch-sign training for blind dogs. Operating within the Greater Central Illinois Area, they adopt a positives-only approach, utilizing rewards such as treats, access to toys or activities, and emphasizing the owner’s role as a powerful reinforcer.
In addition to their private practice, they teach behavior analysis and animal behavior at the college level for graduate and undergraduate students. Their university work involves conducting an operant conditioning course with rescue dogs, researching the cognitive abilities of deaf/blind dogs, and establishing connections between the university and the community to enhance the treatment of all dogs.
They strongly advocate for universities to be directly involved in community efforts, particularly in the betterment of shelter and rescue animals. Their belief is that by linking universities and communities, more animals may receive training, thereby reducing the likelihood of relinquishment or return to shelters or rescue organizations.
