Hello :)
Here's answers from Ferdie for the questions we didn't have time for during the webcast:
1. Alternative to a snuffle mat for a resource guarder in the playroom?
Easiest answer is to simply place treats on the floor and rely on pattern games (1-2-3 or Up Down game - you should be able to google examples). Sniffing would be relegated to sniffaris. Address the dog's resource guarding separately if you have the experience to work on resource guarding.
2. Can 1-2-3 treat (or other pattern game) work well INSIDE the kennel to calm a dog before even trying to leash up and leave the kennel? Also, it seems sometimes a dog doesn't actually WANT to go out at all... and that PROCESS if what they're frustrated or scared about...?
I don't advise going into a kennel with almost any dog, and especially one who exhibits hyperarousal behaviors...that's a very risky situation.
If a dog doesn't want to come out of the kennel, then you're more likely dealing with fear and anxiety. That is a completely different webinar of its own. All I can say now is to take your time building trust with the dog. But, if you can get the dog out, pattern games, nosework, and sniffaris are very helpful for fearful/anxious dogs. Pattern games can add a little predictability to an unpredictable and chaotic environment.
3. Would patterns games help build confidence w/ shy/timid/fearful dogs.
Yes, absolutely! I'm repeating the same answer to the previous question - pattern games, nosework, and sniffaris are very helpful for fearful/anxious dogs. Pattern games can add a little predictability to an unpredictable and chaotic environment.
4. What about dogs that "spam" every trick they know? Being so treat motivated that they turn into aroused/impulsive once treats are involved.
I'm not sure what you mean by "spam" every trick, but I recommend using kibble which is generally considered low-value by most dogs. If you have a dog who seriously struggles with their arousal that even using kibble is risky, then I might consider speaking with a vet about behavior medications. See Dr. Jill Sackman's presentation from 2024 (I mentioned her early in my slides).
5. I use "pets and praise" a lot when working with dogs. Should I substitute with more treats? I have found "pets and praise" to be highly effective. Most of these dogs really respond to human time.
YES, use more treats! I've found that most dogs enjoy petting and praise from people they like, but food is usually far more effective to motivate dogs to perform behaviors you want. However, if petting and praise is your jam, you might be interested in learning more about the constructional approach to animal welfare and training by Sean Will and Maasa Nishimuta at
https://www.caawt.com/.
I like to have as many different tools in my toolbox as possible.
6. what are you feelings about using benebones or nylabones for in kennel enrichment for healthy dogs who don't have dental issues?
I think your shelter vet should handle this question. There are risks of choking. That said, we use them on occasion in the kennels but they are not a big part of our enrichment program.
7. How do you break the need for treats (1-2-3 game)?
I don't. I might substitute toys playing the 1-2-3 game but I'm using food the majority of the time and never fade out treats for this game. The pattern game works because it is consistent and the animal knows exactly what to expect.
8. As options if possible would it be better use of space as you had different years (yards?) with different footing textures etc. :)
Yes, in general, it's nice to have options. You might find that a dog prefers a certain yard if they are sensitive to different types of substrates. Or weather can affect what yard you might choose to use. Or different substrates are better for different activities (e.g., sand might be better for a dog who enjoys digging). In the end, though, maintenance costs might dictate what type of substrate your shelter uses.
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Sheila Segurson, DVM, DACVB
Board Certified Veterinary Behaviorist
Director of Shelter Solutions
Maddie's Fund
Pleasanton CA
9258608284
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Original Message:
Sent: 03-11-2025 04:43 PM
From: Sheila Segurson (she/her)
Subject: Behavior Plans to Reduce Hyperarousal in Shelter Dogs: The Impact of Setup and Choice. March 2025 Maddie's Monthly Behavior Connection
Hi everyone,
Here's our March Maddie's Monthly Behavior Connection webcast, Thurs Mar 27 at noon PT/3 pm ET w/ Ferdie Yau, MA, CPDT-KA.
Behavior Plans to Reduce Hyperarousal in Shelter Dogs: The Impact of Setup and Choice.
Canine hyperarousal behaviors like rapid jumping and grabbing are common challenges in animal shelters, impacting dog welfare, adoption prospects, and the safety of both shelter personnel and animals. Without effective intervention, these behaviors can escalate, reducing a dog's chances of finding and keeping a forever home. Learn how to identify triggers, create tailored behavior modification plans, and implement practical strategies that support the well-being of shelter dogs while enhancing safety and adoption success.
If you're not registered for the webcast series, register here: https://maddiesfund-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_m94_cttbQpihXlKlrkBiIQ
If you missed the February MMBC about behavior modification for fearful cats, you can check it out here: Maddie's University | Animal Welfare Education Courses: Turning Fear into Friendship: Building Trust with Shelter Cats
About our speaker: Ferdie Yau (MA, CPDT-KA) is an animal trainer and ecologist who founded Sits & Wiggles Dog Training in New York City in 2009. He specializes in treating complex canine behavior problems and consults with animal shelters nationwide. He is the Staff Trainer at the Humane Society of Westchester and lead workshop instructor for CATCH Canine Trainers Academy. Before working with dogs, Ferdie trained cooperative care behaviors with dozens of species at the Wildlife Conservation Society in New York and developed the behavior and enrichment plan to treat stereotypies in the Central Park Zoo polar bears. He holds a BS in Ecology from the University of Michigan and an MA in Conservation Biology from Columbia University. His experience includes working in environmental education, wildlife rehabilitation, jaguar research and conservation, and restoring heavily disturbed forest and aquatic ecosystems. In his free time, Ferdie studies the lives of urban coyotes living in the New York City Metropolitan area.
Thanks!
#Behavior,TrainingandEnrichment
#FosterPrograms
#Medicine,SurgeryandSterilization
#OrganizationalManagement
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Sheila Segurson, DVM, DACVB
Board Certified Veterinary Behaviorist
Director of Shelter Solutions
Maddie's Fund
Pleasanton CA
9258608284
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