Animal Training Academy

In this perspective-shifting conversation, Ryan Cartlidge is joined by Kapil Patwardhan — a volunteer providing medical aid and food for dogs in Pune, India, an educator focused on community coexistence, and the author of the moving book The Dog I Could Not Save. Kapil brings a unique lens to the animal training world by advocating for the role of a "dog listener", emphasizing the profound wisdom found in free-ranging dogs who navigate complex human environments every day. Together, Ryan and Kapil explore the lives of "Indie" dogs and the delicate balance of coexisting with animals that aren't "owned" in the Western sense but are integral members of their local communities. Kapil shares his philosophy of non-interference and silent observation, explaining how allowing dogs to be our teachers can fundamentally change how we understand body language, social structures, and the concept of choice. He reflects on his personal journey from a technical background to providing hands-on medical aid in the streets of Pune, and how a singular, tragic loss shaped his mission to help others understand the "why" behind dog behavior to reduce human-animal conflict. The conversation also highlights the challenges faced by free-ranging dogs in rapidly urbanizing environments and the importance of educating the public on how to read canine signals to foster safer, more harmonious neighborhoods. Kapil offers practical reflections on how we can all become better listeners for the animals in our lives by prioritizing their agency and understanding the natural social behaviors that exist when human intervention is minimized. Throughout this episode, we discuss: ✅ The reality of free-ranging "Indie" dogs and their unique place in Indian society ✅ Becoming a "Dog Listener" and the transformative power of non-interference ✅ The story and inspiration behind the book The Dog I Could Not Save ✅ Reducing community conflict through education on canine body language ✅ Kapil's transition from a tech career to animal welfare and street-level medical aid ✅ How urbanization and modern infrastructure impact the social lives of street dogs ✅ Shifting our perspective to let dogs be the primary educators in our learning journey ✅ The importance of food and medical security for community-owned animals Whether you are a professional trainer looking for a fresh perspective on canine social dynamics, a volunteer in the rescue world, or someone interested in the intersection of culture and animal welfare, this episode offers aneye-opening roadmap for coexisting with the animals around us with greater empathy and understanding. Links India Dog study tours link - dogstudytour.com The Dog Who Goes To School Children's Book link for free download - https://ibh-hundeschulen.org/tipps/neu-der-hund-der-zur-schule-geht/

In the first part of this energising two-part conversation, Ryan Cartlidge sits down with Sara Brueske, professional trainer, sport competitor, and owner of On the Run Canine Center. Known for her joyful approach to training and her skill across an impressive range of dog sports, Sara offers a refreshing and practical look at what motivates dogs to engage, play, and grow with us as partners. Drawing from her decades of experience, Sara shares why play sits at the heart of her training philosophy and how intrinsic motivation can shape confident, resilient, and enthusiastic learners. She explores the art of keeping sessions light and fun, how to build engagement with dogs who are shy or easily overwhelmed, and why honouring the individual dog is central to sustainable sport training and family-dog work. Ryan and Sara also unpack how games can support reactive and sensitive dogs, how choice contributes to emotional safety, and why optimism is a skill that can be developed through thoughtful reinforcement strategies. Beyond the mechanics of training, Sara offers generous insight into communication, relationship building, and supporting guardians to feel successful and empowered. Throughout this episode, we explore: ✅ How play and intrinsic motivation strengthen engagement and partnership ✅ Strategies for helping shy, hesitant, or easily discouraged dogs build confidence ✅ Why variety, flexible criteria, and well-timed reinforcement keep dogs in an optimistic learning state ✅ The role of games and choice-based activities in supporting reactive or sensitive dogs ✅ How to balance performance goals with emotional wellbeing in dogs and handlers ✅ Sara's approach to guiding guardians through clear communication and achievable success Whether you are a dog sport enthusiast, a family-dog trainer, or someone looking to bring more joy into your daily training sessions, this conversation with Sara offers practical tools and thoughtful reminders that learning works best when everyone is having fun. Links Happy Dog Lodge - Boarding, Training, Grooming in Cambridge, MN www.happydoglodge.com Fenzi Dog Sports Academy www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com Facebook page: www.facebook.com/brueskesara

In this insightful conclusion to our two-part conversation, Ellen Yoakum—Certified Separation Anxiety Pro Behavior Consultant, KPA CTP, and Behavior Consultant with Pet Harmony—returns to explore how we can thoughtfully apply the learning principles we use with our animal learners to ourselves and the humans we work with. Building on the foundations of Part One, Ellen and Ryan dive into the complexities of generalization—how humans, much like our non-human learners, can struggle to transfer skills across contexts. From communication and empathy to client coaching and professional growth, Ellen offers compassionate strategies for building fluency, resilience, and sustainability in both behavior change and life. Together, they explore: ✅ Translating behavioral principles from dogs to humans—and ourselves ✅ Creating safe learning spaces for clients, colleagues, and trainers alike ✅ How understanding "pain points" can reshape client plans and improve outcomes ✅ Teaching for generalization without overwhelming learners ✅ Rethinking perfection and building skills for recovery when "life gets lifey" Ellen's reflections on generalization, empathy, and sustainable growth remind us that training isn't just about the animals—it's about the entire learning ecosystem. Her insights leave us inspired to meet our learners where they are, celebrate progress over perfection, and approach every interaction—human or non-human—with curiosity and care. Links Enrichment for the Real World Petharmonytraining.com Pet Harmony on Instagram and Facebook Pet Harmony Pro on Instagram and TikTok

In this second half of our two-part conversation, we're joined again by the insightful Megan Sanders—zoo behavior consultant, educator, and long-time advocate for evidence-based training. Building on Part One, where we explored Megan's career journey and the value of leaning into discomfort, this episode dives into her master's thesis research on how best to teach the teachers—animal trainers themselves. Megan shares how tools like Behavior Skills Training (BST) and PORTL can systematically shape trainer mechanics, improve procedural fidelity, and ultimately lead to less stressed, more successful animals. Together, we explore: ✅ Why training trainers deserves the same precision and care as training animals ✅ How PORTL, peer feedback, and goats became unlikely research allies ✅ The challenges of measuring trainer skill and bridging it to real-world animal outcomes ✅ Why "the why" matters—giving trainers logical, observable reasons behind every step ✅ How research leaves us with more questions (and why that's a good thing) Megan's story reminds us that the heart of effective animal care often starts with how we teach the humans holding the leash, bucket, or target stick. By bringing clarity, systematic teaching, and curiosity to the process, Megan is helping shape a future where trainers feel more confident, animals thrive, and the science of behavior continues to grow. Links https://www.behaviorworks.org/ https://absc.ku.edu/ https://behaviorexplorer.com/

In the second half of this enlightening conversation, we're once again joined by Dr. Mari Valgma—Certified Professional Canine Fitness Trainer, creator of Movement Puzzles, and founder of The Moving Canine. After hearing Mari's remarkable journey in part one, we now dive deep into the work that has touched thousands of dogs and their humans worldwide. Mari unpacks the origins and applications of Movement Puzzles, sharing how a simple idea has blossomed into a global community dedicated to canine fitness, confidence, and joy. Together, we explore: ✅ The philosophy and structure behind Movement Puzzles ✅ How fitness training builds resilience and problem-solving skills in dogs ✅ Real-world examples of dogs gaining confidence and coordination through movement ✅ The evolution of Mari's international community and its unexpected growth ✅ How trainers and guardians alike can use movement to enrich everyday life Mari's approach shows us that when we reframe fitness as play, exploration, and empowerment, we unlock not only healthier bodies but also stronger, more confident minds. This conversation will leave you inspired to think about movement as both a foundation and a gift for the dogs in your care. Links Website: www.themovingcanine.com Free two-ball game training series: available via the website Facebook: Mari Valgma – The Moving Canine Instagram: @the.moving.canine

In this second installment of our two-part conversation, Adam Skandarani returns to explore one of the most nuanced and vital topics in our industry: the intersection of art, science, and culture in animal training. Blending professional insight, lived experience, and thoughtful introspection, Adam and Ryan unpack the complexities that arise when training mechanics meet real-world messiness—where logical reasoning, cultural norms, and individual values can shape how training is practiced, received, and understood. Together, we explore: ✅ The difference between applying science and embodying artistry in training ✅ How "cultural fogs" impact both client beliefs and trainer behaviors ✅ Why critical thinking and curiosity are essential tools of the trade ✅ Practical examples of shaping, splitting, and preparing for real-world success ✅ How to hold multiple truths at once—and communicate them with care ✅ The role of social media in shaping modern training discourse ✅ Adam's vision for a future guided by understanding, welfare, and curiosity From skill-building to introspection, from koalas to kickback stands, this episode is a deep dive into what it means to be more than "just" a dog trainer. It's about becoming an effective, empathetic, and artful practitioner—for all species, including our own. Links www.flashofbrilliancedogs.com instagram.com/flashofbrilliancedogs https://www.facebook.com/FlashofBrillianceDog flashofbrilliancedogs@gmail.com

In the second part of our conversation with Juliana DeWillems - Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, faculty member at the Karen Pryor Academy, and author of Manage It! - we dive headfirst into a topic often overlooked in our industry: management. Juliana unpacks why management is more than just a stopgap solution and how it can serve as a powerful, proactive, and compassionate tool for behavior change. Drawing from the content of her book and years of hands-on experience, Juliana walks us through how antecedent arrangement, environmental adjustments, and unmet needs shape the behaviors we see - and how thoughtful management can help create real change for animals and their guardians. Throughout this episode, we explore: ✅ What "management" really means - and how to define it across different audiences ✅ The relationship between antecedents, behavior, and long-term success ✅ Why management is not "just a band-aid," but often the most ethical, effective choice ✅ Practical talking points for trainers when advocating for management strategies with clients ✅ How embracing simplicity and going "back to basics" can clear the fog and enhance outcomes Whether you're brand new to training or a seasoned professional, Juliana's thoughtful insights offer a refreshing look at how sometimes the simplest strategies are the most impactful. This episode reminds us that behavior is always happening - and it's our job to make the environment work for everyone involved. Links https://www.instagram.com/jwdogtraining/ https://www.facebook.com/jwdogtrainingandbehavior/ https://www.tiktok.com/@jwdogtraining https://www.jwdogtraining.com/ https://www.jwdogtraining.com/training-app

In this first installment of a two-part conversation, we welcome Juliana DeWillems - Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, Karen Pryor Academy faculty member, and founder of JW Dog Training - for a deeply honest and empowering discussion. Juliana shares her unique journey into the world of animal training - from event planning at a humane society to discovering her calling through fostering rambunctious adolescent dogs. Unlike many, Juliana entered the field without first navigating aversive methods, drawn instinctively to positive reinforcement by both curiosity and compassion. We also explore: ✅ What burnout looked and felt like for Juliana as a business owner and trainer ✅ How she reshaped her career (and life) to align with her strengths and values ✅ The emotional realities of working in a helping profession ✅ Why therapy, self-awareness, and redefining success are critical tools for sustainability ✅ The possibilities—and pitfalls—of building a digitally-based animal training business Juliana's insights will resonate with anyone who's ever questioned their capacity to "do it all," and her vulnerability provides a roadmap for building a career with more intention, peace, and joy. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the field, this episode offers inspiration, validation, and hope for a thriving future. Links https://www.instagram.com/jwdogtraining/ https://www.facebook.com/jwdogtrainingandbehavior/ https://www.tiktok.com/@jwdogtraining https://www.jwdogtraining.com/ https://www.jwdogtraining.com/training-app