06/24/2024
❤️🩵🩷💜
Today, Dresden Graff is an out transgender man who has been training and competing in everything from Agility to Obedience since he was a teenager.
. She grew up with cats, dogs, turtles, rabbits and more. She began volunteering with animal rescues in high school. She is one of only 30 in the world currently!
(34)
For as long as she can remember, Tabitha has had a strong connection with animals and knew that she wanted to work with them in her professional and personal life. Once she graduated high school, she wanted to continue to help animals and she went to school to become a veterinary technician. She graduated from Stautzenberger College and passed her board exam, becoming a Registered Veterinary Te
chnician in 2010. As a veterinary technician, Tabitha worked with animal rescue organizations and in general practice. Her work in these fields shed light on repeated occurrences of animal euthanasia and re-homing due to behavior issues, misreading of animal body language, and the suffering that animals and humans endured due to them being misunderstood. This is what first inspired her to become more interested and knowledgeable about animal behavior and training. She quickly became dedicated to learning about the root causes and permanent solutions to feline and canine behavior concerns. She began to teach herself about behavior through continuing education, workshops, speaking to experts, completing her Low Stress Handling and Elite Fear Free Certifications, obtaining her KPA-CTP through the Karen Pryor Academy , and became a Certified Cat Behavior Consultant through the IAABC . She has also received her Veterinary Technician Specialist in Behavior Designation . Keeping animals in their loving homes is her utmost goal – this reduces euthanasia as well as displacement of animals from their homes, where they often end up in stressful shelter environments. Helping people better understand and relate to their pets leads to a stronger bond and a more gratifying relationship between animal and human. Tabitha enjoys sharing her extensive knowledge and experience to help clients resolve, manage, and prevent many types of dog and cat behavior issues, such as house soiling, attention seeking behaviors, destructive behaviors, aggression, fear-based behaviors, tension between pets, introducing new pets, leash pulling, and fear and stress associated with handling and grooming. Tabitha also offers educational lectures and workshops to the general public, veterinary professionals, training, and shelter professionals. Tabitha revels in educating others through writing, behavior consulting, and lecturing on all things related to cats and dogs. This includes reducing the fear, anxiety, and stress animals and their owners often experience with veterinary visits, handling, travel, and medical procedures, socialization, preventing behavior issues, fear free handling, shelter enrichment and behavior programs, and more.
❤️🩵🩷💜
Today, Dresden Graff is an out transgender man who has been training and competing in everything from Agility to Obedience since he was a teenager.
🎆 🐕 🐈⬛ Tis the season for fireworks and here are some tips to help reduce the stress for your cat(s) and dog(s).
🎇 Remember, fireworks are not only scary for our feline and canine friends but also many other animals and can cause humans stress and fear too!
🏠 Create a safe space
🔇 Minimize loud noises and other stressful stimuli
🐾 Understand and comfort their needs
🎾 Offer their favorite toys and treats
💊Utilize calming aids if needed
🚪 Keep them indoors and ensure ID tags are updated
💬 For severe stress, consult your vet and an evidence based animal welfare positive behavior professional
Fear and Anxiety during scary storms or 4th of July Celebrations can be serious situations but you can help!
I’m had an amazing time at the KPA-CTP (Karen Pryor Academy) meetup yesterday! 🌟 It was awesome to meet and connect with other talented trainers who are as passionate about evidence based animal welfare positive training as I am.
Sharing experiences, learning new techniques, and building a supportive network made this event great. Looking forward to applying the new insights and staying in touch with all the wonderful people I met! 🐾
🌞🔥 Heat Exposure Alert
With temperatures rising, it’s important to be aware of heat safety for you and your pets. With the temperatures this week in Ohio being in the 90s with high humidity, activity should be reduced, especially during peak heat hours.
Remember, no dog has ever died from missing one walk, but dogs have died from one walk in the heat.
While most pet caregivers are vigilant about not leaving their pets in parked cars during hot weather, many may not be aware of other common scenarios where their pet is at risk. Recognizing the early signs of heat stroke and knowing what steps to take can mean the difference between a close call and a tragic loss.
Symptoms of Heat Stroke:
- Excessive panting
- Drooling
- Red or pale gums
- Rapid heartbeat
- Lethargy
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Collapse
Protect Your Pets:
🌳 Walk them early in the morning or late in the evening, or not at all. Opt for very short supervised potty breaks depending on your pet’s risk factors and the humidity and temperature.
💧 Ensure they have access to plenty of fresh water.
🏡 Keep them indoors during peak heat hours. Always have a cool, well-ventilated space available.
❄️ Help them keep cool with cooling mats, frozen treats, fans, and A/C.
🚗 Never leave them in a parked car.
Stay safe and keep your pets cool this summer! 🌞🐾
🐾✨ Play sessions with wand toys are crucial for your cat’s well-being, but remember not to abruptly take the toy away and end the session. We are simulating their natural prey-hunting instincts! 🐈⬛✨
These sessions include:
🔍 Searching for prey (staring at the toy)
👀 Stalking
🏃 Chasing
🐾 Pouncing
✋ Catching
💥 “Killing”
🍽️ Eating their “kill” (hence the treat!)
Here are some extra play tips:
🔹 Behave like the prey: wiggle, fly, and hide behind pillows. Start vigorously, but remember, prey gets tired, so slow down.
🔹 Let your cat stare, stalk, catch, and bite the prey.
🔹 Conclude play with the prey slowing down and “dying.”
🔹 Cats go back and forth along the prey sequence. If your cat stops chasing, they might just be “resetting” back to the starting phase. Keep moving, and they’ll likely jump back in.
🔹 Place the toy under tissue paper or a small rug to simulate hidden prey.
🔹 Have the toy hug around couches and chairs and pop out.
🔹 Wiggle the toy on the ground, taking pauses in movement similar to real prey.
🚫 Avoid waving the toy directly in front of their face.
🐈⬛ Download my free playing with your cat handout for more
https://chirrupsandchatter.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Playingwithyourcat-2020.pdf
What’s your cat’s favorite wand toy? Share in the comments! 🎉
Today and everyday, we celebrate our feline friends by understanding and respecting them.
Here are a few ways to honor this special day while respecting your cat’s space:
1. Interact with Your Cat in a Way They Enjoy: Every cat is unique, so learn what your kitty loves. Whether it’s a gentle petting session, a fun game with a feather toy, or some quiet time by the window, find activities that make your cat happy.
2. Let Your Cat Initiate, Choose, and Control Human Contact:Cats, like people, have their own preferences for physical contact. Allow your cat to approach you for affection and respect their signals if they need some space.
3. Educate Children About Cat Communication:It’s essential to teach children how to interact safely and respectfully with cats. Many cats feel uncomfortable or threatened by hugs, which can lead to misunderstandings and potentially scratchy situations. Teach children to recognize signs of discomfort in cats, such as twitching tails, flattened ears, or hissing, and to always ask permission before approaching a cat they don’t know.
4. Pay Attention to Cat Body Language: Cats communicate through body language. Watch for signs of stress or discomfort, such as flattened ears, swishing tails, or avoiding eye contact, and respond by giving your cat space or redirecting their attention to something more enjoyable. Also, assess body language to identify if the cat is enjoying the onteraction, your cat may enjoy a hug, but for 1-3 seconds. Just like, I love a hug but hugs can vecome uncomfortable really quick based on who and how they are hugging me, also how long.
By celebrating National (Don’t Hug) Your Cat Day, we not only show our love and appreciation for our feline companions but also promote a better understanding of their needs and preferences.
🎉 Happy National (Don’t Hug) but interact with Your cat in a way they enjoy day
Today, we celebrate our feline friends by understanding and respecting their boundaries.
Here are a few ways to honor this special day while respecting your cat's space:
1. Interact with Your Cat in a Way They Enjoy: Every cat is unique, so learn what your kitty loves. Whether it’s a gentle petting session, a fun game with a feather toy, or some quiet time by the window, find activities that make your cat happy.
2. Let Your Cat Initiate, Choose, and Control Human Contact:Cats, like people, have their own preferences for physical contact. Allow your cat to approach you for affection and respect their signals if they need some space.
3. Educate Children About Cat Communication:It’s essential to teach children how to interact safely and respectfully with cats. Many cats feel uncomfortable or threatened by hugs, which can lead to misunderstandings and potentially scratchy situations. Teach children to recognize signs of discomfort in cats, such as twitching tails, flattened ears, or hissing, and to always ask permission before approaching a cat they don’t know.
4. Pay Attention to Cat Body Language: Cats communicate through body language. Watch for signs of stress or discomfort, such as flattened ears, swishing tails, or avoiding eye contact, and respond by giving your cat space or redirecting their attention to something more enjoyable.
By celebrating National (Don’t Hug) Your Cat Day, we not only show our love and appreciation for our feline companions but also promote a better understanding of their needs and preferences.
Let’s make every day a happy and safe day for our beloved cats! 🐾❤️
Huge shout out to Fear Free Pets for hosting and Virox Technologies for sponsoring this event tonight and to all 2,300 of you who registered🤯 ,you're amazing!
After hearing your fantastic feedback from this event and my recent kitten development, socialization, and kitten kindergarten workshops along with seeing the lack of and demand for resources on kitten behavioral development and socialization, I'm thrilled to announce that Chirrups and Chatter will be presenting free webinars on these topics in the near future.
Stay tuned for more details!
🐾 Compassionate Care: Integrating Fear Free Practices and Behavioral Wellness in Veterinary Medicine🐾
Whether you’re a dedicated animal welfare or veterinary professional or a passionate caregiver, understanding how behavior impacts a cats and dog’s health is crucial.
I am thrilled to announce that I will be presenting at San Diego Humane about how to integrate behavioral guidance into wellness appointments, manage and decrease stress associated with veterinary visits and medical procedures, and more! By recognizing behavior as a vital aspect of pet health, we can strengthen the human-animal bond and advocate for our furry friends.
🗓️ Date: Saturday, June 15 ⏰ Time: 9:30am- 2:30pm
📍 Location: San Diego Humane Society (San Diego Campus)
🔗 Reserve Your Spot: https://lnkd.in/gzQ9MRpK
A gradual introduction going at each individual cats pace may take a few months but it is more than worth it for a lifetime of cats who are not only comfortable around eachother but enjoy eachother❤️
Received this awesome update today from a client. “These guys play every morning after breakfast and before bed at night! Muppet is still in her room when we sleep and when we aren't home but they are doing so well! Our intro was long but I really believe it's what they both needed to actually enjoy each other!”
We worked together to gradually introduce the cats to eachother and to identify and manage Rupert’s pain ❤️
Thank you to HumanePro HSUS Expo for having me 🫶🏻
A huge thanks to everyone who attended my all-day workshop on kitten development, socialization, and kitten kindergarten, as well as those who joined my roundtables on low-stress techniques for medicating cats.
I appreciate everyone who asked questions, shared stories, and challenges, helping me improve future lectures, workshops, and resources.
Thanks to everyone who stopped by to say hi and shared success stories of how I’ve helped not only the animals in their care but also in advocating and caring for themselves. Videos, photos,and even a few happy tears were shared! 🥹
I learned and connected with amazing colleagues and I am feeling empowered and energized ❤️
A powerful reminder that we are not alone in making the world a better place! 🥳🥰
Now to head home and rest for my marathon, Sunday 🥰
I am excited to announce my partnership with The Gentle Vet. Together, we'll provide personalized care to animals struggling with severe fear and stress related to veterinary visits and procedures, including cats and dogs who may exhibit fear-related aggression.
Fear is a common experience among animals during veterinary visits and procedures, and it's nothing to feel ashamed of. We're here to offer our support!
🎉Hooray🎊
A future episode of Tails From a Vet Tech will be covering this but be sure to check out the first 2 episodes to learn more about FIP
https://tailsfromrvt.buzzsprout.com/1887137/14432794-purrplexed-decoding-fip-featuring-dr-sarah-jones-dvm
The rumors are true! Stokes Pharmacy to Offer Legal FIP Treatment in the US Available June 1st. Stokes Pharmacy has formed an exclusive partnership with the Bova Group to offer a U.S.-made compounded oral treatment for feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). This treatment is supported by Bova’s unique drug formula, which has been utilized in clinical research studies across the globe and is currently in use in the UK and Australia.
Stokes Pharmacy’s compounded preparation will be available by a veterinarian prescription only. In order to prescribe, please sign up for iFill at https://www.ifill.com/
More information coming soon!
Kitten season is sure to bring many challenges and opportunities for shelter staff and the rescue community. Kittens require special care to safeguard
Teamwork makes the dream work 😻
Vader and his caregiver are amazing ❤️
This guy...
Vader is an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime cat. He is elegant, athletic, accepting of others, confident, trainable and outgoing. I was excited to see him and celebrate his graduation before the practice closes.
Vader came to us for eating things that he shouldn't (pica). Like many of our patients, he needed a team. We tagged a nutritionist (Dr. Camille Torres) from Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital to help make a special diet for our boy and Chirrups and Chatter to get our behavior modification plan going.
His incredible pet parent did everything to a "T" and now, he doesn't need our help anymore.
He is one of the amazing patients that I will never forget.
‼️Injections don’t have to be stressful and scary!
😻This is my friend, Mia, and her senior cat, Pterry, he needs a solensia injection monthly to help manage his pain, as a veterinary technician and a friend, I come over to help.
🎉Each injection experience has been less and less stressful, and today, Pterry was excited to receive his injection!
🐈⬛You see in the video he chooses to come to the cat tree (there are cat stairs to make more accessible you can’t see) and remains there eating even after the injection, enjoying his churu. When giving him his injections, I always use considerate approach which includes approaching him from the side and setting up the environment to be comfortable along with minimizing stressors. He remains in a position that is comfortable for him, standing up. I changed the needle to a fresh needle after drawing it up, gave the injection using a 25 gauge needle which he prefers and used a touch gradient prior to, during, and after giving the injection.
❤️Chirrups and Chatter offers cooperative care and medication training for cats and dogs along with fear free handling education via lectures and workshops to shelters and veterinary clinics.
❤️Like and follow for more cooperative care and handling tips
🐾🌟 Exciting Announcement! 🌟🐾
🌸🐱 It's Kitten Season! 🐱🌸
Calling all shelter staff, rescue volunteers, and kitten lovers! 📣 Get ready to make a purr-fect difference in the lives of adorable kittens during this special time.
Join me, Fear Free Pets and Virox Technologies Inc.for an exclusive webinar as I share invaluable insights on how to navigate and thrive during kitten season.
📅 Date: May 22nd
⏰ Time: 8:00pm EST
📍 Location: Online Webinar
In this informative session, you'll discover:
✨ Strategies to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) in kittens
✨ Effective techniques for handling and socializing kittens
✨ Creating a safe and nurturing environment for kittens in need
✨ Practical tips and tricks, including the use of products like Rescue for optimal disinfection
Register here: https://fearfreellc.webinargeek.com/whiskers-on-the-way-a-fear-free-guide-to-kitten-season-preparation
Don't miss out on this opportunity to empower yourself with the knowledge and skills to ensure the physical and emotional well-being of our furry friends. Let's make this kitten season the most compassionate and successful one yet! 🐾💖
Empowering Organizations through Education & Consulting 🌟
Thrilled to share this glowing review from a shelter where I consulted on a challenging behavior case.
Together, we’re making a difference.
What better day to remind everyone paws need claws
Happy No-Declaw Day! The Paw Project
If your cat is scratching items you don't want them to, check out this FREE handout on how to prevent and manage destructive scratching
https://chirrupsandchatter.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/HowToStopDestructiveScratchinginCats.pdf
🌟 Embracing Every Story: Today, on World Semicolon Day, I proudly share the significance of my semicolon tattoo. 🌟
I proudly wear a cat semicolon on my sleeve for mental health awareness, as a symbol of my personal journey including struggles and successes through mental health challenges, and in remembrance of many of my colleagues and friends who have lost their lives to su***de.
The semicolon tattoo has become an emblem of mental health awareness and su***de prevention. Raising awareness through ink. "A semicolon is used when an author could've chosen to end their sentence but chose not to. The author is you, and the sentence is your life. - Project Semicolon
Getting inked with a semicolon is a way for those who have experience with mental health issues to permanently and publicly show their remembrance and support for those who are still fighting. You are not alone!
It helps to bring attention to subjects such as self-harm, depression, and su***de by starting conversations over body art. The mission is to push back against the stigma that surrounds mental health with positive awareness. The more we talk about it, the more people get the help they need when they need it.
Over 700,000 su***des are reported each year in the United States, with many more going unreported.��1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year. In the U.S. alone, over 130 individuals complete su***de on a daily basis.
Let's break the silence, shatter stigma, and spread awareness about mental health and su***de prevention. By raising awareness, we ensure more people get the help they need when they need it.
On this day and everyday, let's join forces to raise awareness, offer unwavering support, educate ourselves and others, and encourage dialogue. Together, we can save lives.
Hope, Help, and Stability are within reach. Sending love to all who may be struggling, know someone who is struggling, or have lost someone to mental illness.
Resources for help, to learn more, and how to support others
Projectsemicolon.com
Hope For The Day HFTD.com
The Trevor Project Thetrevorproject.org
988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline
https://988lifeline.org/
Americain Foundation for Su***de Prevention
afsp.org
Not One More Vet notonemore.org
***dePrevention
🐾 Struggling to get your cat into their carrier?
🎥 Watch for tips to help get your cat into the carrier
🙀Say goodbye to the stress of the "tip and dump" method or coaxing your kitty through that tiny carrier door.
😻Discover a gentler, more effective approach: dismantle the carrier, calmly guide your cat inside using treats or toys, then reassemble. If your cat is stressed or not feeling well, gently picking them up and placing them in the carrier is best and then reassembling.
Reduce anxiety levels and make those trips smoother for both you and your furry friend! 🚗💨
Even better, you can teach your cat to love the carrier.
Follow and head over to chirrupsandchatter.com for more resources on helping your cat love their carrier! 📚
Join me and Every Dog Behavior and Training this Thursday for this awesome free event!
Register below 👇
https://www.everydogaustin.org/event-details/feline-communication-how-to-speak-cat
As a small business owner, today is never a fun day.
I am in a low tax bracket and almost 1/3 of my income is going to taxes.
Support small businesses today and everyday ❤
Support small businesses today and every day!
Being a small business owner is challenging and can feel lonely sometimes, the community that supports you helps to uplift and help businesses thrive!
When you purchase from a small business, you are supporting creativity, you are helping a family, and you’re supporting and helping that small business owner chase & achieve dreams.
Thank you so much to everyone who has supported Chirrups and Chatter!
Thank you to all who have supported me and shown love 🫶🏼
Happy !
🎉 Happy National (Don’t Hug) Your Dog Day! 🎉
Today is a great day to celebrate our furry friends and emphasize the importance of understanding and respecting their boundaries.
Here are a few ways you can celebrate this special day while respecting your dog’s boundaries:
1. Interact with Your Dog in a Way They Enjoy- Every dog is different, so take the time to learn what your furry friend loves. Whether it’s a game of fetch, a belly rub, or a relaxing walk in the park, find activities that bring joy to your dog.
2. Let Your Dog Initiate, Choose, and Control Human Contact: Dogs, like people, have their own preferences when it comes to physical contact. Allow your dog to approach you for affection and respect their cues if they prefer some space.
3. Educate Children About Dog Communication: It’s essential to teach children how to interact safely and respectfully with dogs. Many dogs feel uncomfortable or threatened by hugs and kisses, which can lead to misunderstandings and potentially dangerous situations. Teach children to recognize signs of discomfort in dogs, such as stiff body language, growling, or showing teeth, and to always ask permission before approaching a dog they don’t know.
The Family dog and Family Paws Parent education are great resources
4. Pay Attention to Dog Body Language: Dogs communicate primarily through body language. Watch for signs of stress or discomfort, such as ears pinned back, yawning, or licking lips, and respond accordingly by giving your dog space or redirecting their attention to something more enjoyable.
By celebrating National (Don’t Hug) Your Dog Day, we not only show our love and appreciation for our canine companions but also promote a better understanding of their needs and preferences. Let’s make every day a happy and safe day for our beloved dogs! 🐾❤️
🎉 Happy National (Don’t Hug) Your Dog Day! 🎉
Today is a great day to celebrate our furry friends and emphasize the importance of understanding and respecting their boundaries.
Here are a few ways you can celebrate this special day while respecting your dog’s boundaries:
1. Interact with Your Dog in a Way They Enjoy- Every dog is different, so take the time to learn what your furry friend loves. Whether it’s a game of fetch, a belly rub, or a relaxing walk in the park, find activities that bring joy to your dog.
2. Let Your Dog Initiate, Choose, and Control Human Contact: Dogs, like people, have their own preferences when it comes to physical contact. Allow your dog to approach you for affection and respect their cues if they prefer some space.
3. Educate Children About Dog Communication: It’s essential to teach children how to interact safely and respectfully with dogs. Many dogs feel uncomfortable or threatened by hugs and kisses, which can lead to misunderstandings and potentially dangerous situations. Teach children to recognize signs of discomfort in dogs, such as stiff body language, growling, or showing teeth, and to always ask permission before approaching a dog they don’t know.
The Family dog and Family Paws Parent education are great resources
4. Pay Attention to Dog Body Language: Dogs communicate primarily through body language. Watch for signs of stress or discomfort, such as ears pinned back, yawning, or licking lips, and respond accordingly by giving your dog space or redirecting their attention to something more enjoyable.
By celebrating National (Don’t Hug) Your Dog Day, we not only show our love and appreciation for our canine companions but also promote a better understanding of their needs and preferences. Let’s make every day a happy and safe day for our beloved dogs! 🐾❤️
Join me, Community Cats Podcast and 3 other great speakers at this pawsome event dedicated to our feline friends at the Community Cats Podcast's annual Online Behavior Day! 🌟
🎉 Get ready for a purr-fect day filled with:
- Valuable tips on cat behavior concerns 🤔
- Fun cat trivia with exciting prizes 🏆
- Networking opportunities with fellow animal welfare enthusiasts
Ill be presenting From Hiss to Purr: Keeping Kittens in Lifelong Homes"
Learn how to nurture the emotional well-being of kittens and set them up for success in their forever homes! I will share specific strategies and techniques to help kittens become confident and adaptable companions including those with fear and anxiety. These methods empower us to address their concerns and nurture their confidence, preparing them to flourish in diverse settings and ensuring their smooth transition to loving homes. Attendees will gain invaluable insights into supporting kittens' emotional well-being, facilitating their comfort and readiness for their new life.
🎟️ Registration is only $25
https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/events/2024-online-behavior-day/
🌟 You better reward that s**t ⭐️
Ever notice how we often overlook the behaviors we like that our animals do?
We tend to ignore behaviors we like, not only with our animals but with our friends and family too!
For example, my partner routinely does the laundry and I used to ignore it but when he didn't do it, I would get upset and say, I don't have any clean scrubs, what am I going to do?! Not only, did I ignore the behavior I liked but then I added punishment (me getting upset) which is going to decrease that behavior and negatively affect our relationship
Now, I do my best to reinforce all the amazing things my partner does
By expressing gratitude and appreciation, not only do I maintain those behaviors, but our bond grows stronger with each gesture.
The same goes for our pets! Positive reinforcement not only maintains but also strengthens desired behaviors.
Positive reinforcement can transform everyday moments into opportunities to connect and grow with your pet!
So next time you catch your pet doing something you love, don't ignore it – reinforce it! It may be checking in with you during a walk or your cat scratching their scratcher.
Tshirt from Woof Cultr
I have a deep love for my six senior animals, all of whom are over 13 years old, but I must admit, it can be quite challenging at times. Looking at the bigger picture, they all currently enjoy a good quality of life, and we are doing our best to manage their medical issues.
My cat Malt recently had to see the vet due to behavior changes I noted, thankfully she seems to be more comfortable today, we are treating her symptomatically, which is a relief. However, the results from her bloodwork and ultrasound were not what I had hoped for. Despite this setback, I believe we can handle her medical challenges and overcome this hurdle.
I’m not doing great right now, but I know I will be okay. I’m allowing myself to acknowledge and process my emotions while also reminding myself to be grateful for every precious day I get to spend with them.
To all the caregivers caring for senior pets, I see you. Your dedication, patience, and love are truly inspiring.
Share something special about your senior pet that melts your heart. Let’s celebrate our furry friends and the unconditional joy they bring to our lives, one grateful day at a time.
Cleveland, OH
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Today and everyday, we celebrate our feline friends by understanding and respecting them. Here are a few ways to honor this special day while respecting your cat’s space: 1. Interact with Your Cat in a Way They Enjoy: Every cat is unique, so learn what your kitty loves. Whether it’s a gentle petting session, a fun game with a feather toy, or some quiet time by the window, find activities that make your cat happy. 2. Let Your Cat Initiate, Choose, and Control Human Contact:Cats, like people, have their own preferences for physical contact. Allow your cat to approach you for affection and respect their signals if they need some space. 3. Educate Children About Cat Communication:It’s essential to teach children how to interact safely and respectfully with cats. Many cats feel uncomfortable or threatened by hugs, which can lead to misunderstandings and potentially scratchy situations. Teach children to recognize signs of discomfort in cats, such as twitching tails, flattened ears, or hissing, and to always ask permission before approaching a cat they don’t know. 4. Pay Attention to Cat Body Language: Cats communicate through body language. Watch for signs of stress or discomfort, such as flattened ears, swishing tails, or avoiding eye contact, and respond by giving your cat space or redirecting their attention to something more enjoyable. Also, assess body language to identify if the cat is enjoying the onteraction, your cat may enjoy a hug, but for 1-3 seconds. Just like, I love a hug but hugs can vecome uncomfortable really quick based on who and how they are hugging me, also how long. By celebrating National (Don’t Hug) Your Cat Day, we not only show our love and appreciation for our feline companions but also promote a better understanding of their needs and preferences.
A gradual introduction going at each individual cats pace may take a few months but it is more than worth it for a lifetime of cats who are not only comfortable around eachother but enjoy eachother❤️ Received this awesome update today from a client. “These guys play every morning after breakfast and before bed at night! Muppet is still in her room when we sleep and when we aren't home but they are doing so well! Our intro was long but I really believe it's what they both needed to actually enjoy each other!” We worked together to gradually introduce the cats to eachother and to identify and manage Rupert’s pain ❤️
‼️Injections don’t have to be stressful and scary! 😻This is my friend, Mia, and her senior cat, Pterry, he needs a solensia injection monthly to help manage his pain, as a veterinary technician and a friend, I come over to help. 🎉Each injection experience has been less and less stressful, and today, Pterry was excited to receive his injection! 🐈⬛You see in the video he chooses to come to the cat tree (there are cat stairs to make more accessible you can’t see) and remains there eating even after the injection, enjoying his churu. When giving him his injections, I always use considerate approach which includes approaching him from the side and setting up the environment to be comfortable along with minimizing stressors. He remains in a position that is comfortable for him, standing up. I changed the needle to a fresh needle after drawing it up, gave the injection using a 25 gauge needle which he prefers and used a touch gradient prior to, during, and after giving the injection. ❤️Chirrups and Chatter offers cooperative care and medication training for cats and dogs along with fear free handling education via lectures and workshops to shelters and veterinary clinics. ❤️Like and follow for more cooperative care and handling tips
🐾 Struggling to get your cat into their carrier? 🎥 Watch for tips to help get your cat into the carrier 🙀Say goodbye to the stress of the "tip and dump" method or coaxing your kitty through that tiny carrier door. 😻Discover a gentler, more effective approach: dismantle the carrier, calmly guide your cat inside using treats or toys, then reassemble. If your cat is stressed or not feeling well, gently picking them up and placing them in the carrier is best and then reassembling. Reduce anxiety levels and make those trips smoother for both you and your furry friend! 🚗💨 Even better, you can teach your cat to love the carrier. Follow and head over to chirrupsandchatter.com for more resources on helping your cat love their carrier! 📚
🎉 Happy National (Don’t Hug) Your Dog Day! 🎉 Today is a great day to celebrate our furry friends and emphasize the importance of understanding and respecting their boundaries. Here are a few ways you can celebrate this special day while respecting your dog’s boundaries: 1. Interact with Your Dog in a Way They Enjoy- Every dog is different, so take the time to learn what your furry friend loves. Whether it’s a game of fetch, a belly rub, or a relaxing walk in the park, find activities that bring joy to your dog. 2. Let Your Dog Initiate, Choose, and Control Human Contact: Dogs, like people, have their own preferences when it comes to physical contact. Allow your dog to approach you for affection and respect their cues if they prefer some space. 3. Educate Children About Dog Communication: It’s essential to teach children how to interact safely and respectfully with dogs. Many dogs feel uncomfortable or threatened by hugs and kisses, which can lead to misunderstandings and potentially dangerous situations. Teach children to recognize signs of discomfort in dogs, such as stiff body language, growling, or showing teeth, and to always ask permission before approaching a dog they don’t know. The Family dog and Family Paws Parent education are great resources @thefamilydogpros @familypawsofficial 4. Pay Attention to Dog Body Language: Dogs communicate primarily through body language. Watch for signs of stress or discomfort, such as ears pinned back, yawning, or licking lips, and respond accordingly by giving your dog space or redirecting their attention to something more enjoyable. By celebrating National (Don’t Hug) Your Dog Day, we not only show our love and appreciation for our canine companions but also promote a better understanding of their needs and preferences. Let’s make every day a happy and safe day for our beloved dogs! 🐾❤️
🌟 You better reward that sh*t ⭐️ Ever notice how we often overlook the behaviors we like that our animals do? We tend to ignore behaviors we like, not only with our animals but with our friends and family too! For example, my partner routinely does the laundry and I used to ignore it but when he didn't do it, I would get upset and say, I don't have any clean scrubs, what am I going to do?! Not only, did I ignore the behavior I liked but then I added punishment (me getting upset) which is going to decrease that behavior and negatively affect our relationship Now, I do my best to reinforce all the amazing things my partner does By expressing gratitude and appreciation, not only do I maintain those behaviors, but our bond grows stronger with each gesture. The same goes for our pets! Positive reinforcement not only maintains but also strengthens desired behaviors. Positive reinforcement can transform everyday moments into opportunities to connect and grow with your pet! So next time you catch your pet doing something you love, don't ignore it – reinforce it! It may be checking in with you during a walk or your cat scratching their scratcher. Tshirt from Woof Cultr #positivereinforcement #animalbehavior #dogtraining #cattraining #doglover #catlover #dontignoreitreinforceit
Ness and I have worked together to make nail trims, taking medications, and undergoing medical procedures less stressful and even fun! Cooperative care is all about collaboration between animal and the people providing the care. With cooperative care, we are focused on both the physical and emotional well-being of the animal and adapt our interactions based on body language and other behavioral signals from the animal. It is a dialogue between animals and people, rather than a one sided conversation controlled by people. 🤝 Collaboration is Key 🐕 I prioritize Ness's physical and emotional well-being. 🐕Our interactions are based on her cues and signals, creating a two-way conversation. 🔆 Empowerment through Choice ✨ Ness actively participates in her care, showing readiness and comfort. ✨ She comes over to me eagerly. ✨ Offers one of her consent behaviors. Consent behaviors are trained behaviors which allow the pet to say they are ready for the next repetition. Ness’s consent behavior is laying on her side with her head down on her mat. ✨ She exhibits relaxed body language ✨ She eats and takes treats softly throughout ✨ When tossing a treat away, she chooses to come back so we can continue to training game ✋ **Gentle Touch and Predictor Cues** - I use a touch gradient. When touching, start with the least sensitive area first and once I have made contact, I glide my hand from one body part to the next (neck to rear leg) instead of abruptly grabbing leg and pulling the leg up or back. I start with her back nails which are the least sensitive area for her and gradually move up to her front nails. I avoid stretching out her legs which can cause discomfort. - Predictor cues help Ness understand what's coming next, building trust and cooperation. Predictor cues are a form of cooperation care training. Unlike a typical cue taught to prompt a behavior in the animal,. A predictor cue communicates to the animal what the person is going to d
🚫 Let's Avoid Pen Tapping! 🚫 Today, let's delve into why pen tapping isn't recommended as a distraction when handling animals. The objective of using distractions is to prevent, decrease, and manage fear and stress. Unfortunately, pen tapping achieves the opposite effect. Here's why: 1. Sensory Overload: Animals have highly sensitive hearing and touch. The sharp, repetitive sound of pen tapping can overwhelm their senses, heightening fear and stress levels, and causing discomfort. 2. Fear and Agitation: Animals, much like humans, can experience fear and agitation when confronted with sudden stimuli. Pen tapping can startle them, creating a sense of threat and exacerbating fear and anxiety. Instead of pen tapping, let's explore alternative distractions such as: - Gentle petting and stroking - Brushing - Breaks during handling - Offering treats or engaging toys - Providing verbal praise When using distractions, it's crucial to introduce them before, during, and after the procedure. Assess whether the distraction effectively manages or decreases fear and stress. For example, some dogs may respond positively to a high-pitched, happy tone of voice, while others may find it stressful. It's essential to observe the animal's body language and adjust accordingly. Remember, not all distraction methods may be suitable for every animal. Always prioritize the animal's comfort and well-being when choosing distraction techniques.
Today, my friend Mia’s handsome senior cat, Pterry needed a solensia injection, and I came over to help as a vet tech specialist in behavior. His vet and I work together and they were aware I was assisting. This marked my first interaction with Pterry regarding medical procedures, and it was crucial to prioritize his comfort and well-being throughout. By employing handling foundation techniques, communication, and a handling plan, he received his injection in less than 30 seconds, ensuring minimal discomfort for Pterry and a positive experience for everyone involved. Handling foundations include: ✨ Creating a Comfortable Environment: Setting up Pterry's surroundings thoughtfully, including providing a cozy cat tree with a heated bed for a nonslip surface, elevated plate for food, and cat stairs for him to easily access cat tree. ✨ Assessing Body Language and Preferences: Understanding Pterry's body language and preferences helped us tailor our approach for maximum comfort. ✨ Effective Communication: Maintaining clear communication with Pterry’s caregiver ensured we were all on the same page, addressing any concerns and identifying sensitive areas. ✨ Gentle Handling: Utilizing a touch gradient and approaching the situation with empathy and consideration minimized stress for everyone ✨ Structured Handling Plan: Establishing a clear plan of action, including who would be doing what and where procedures would take place, identifying his sensitive areas, and selecting a location for the injection to minimize discomfort based on his needs, ensured a smooth process. ✨ Managing Pain: Prioritizing his comfort meant managing any potential pain effectively. This included me giving the injection in the left rear along with the environmental setup listed above, and starting my touch below the shoulders since his shoulders are sensitive due to pain. Every little step we take to minimize fear, stress
My cat Jellybean required medication before I began training her for it. Even without a history of cooperative care training, there are steps you can take to make medications less stressful. Within a few days, she was willingly approaching her medication spot, even allowing my husband to administer the medication without stress. I wanted to share a few steps I took because medicating your pets doesn't have to be a stressful experience for you or them! Just a few weeks after starting medications, Bean now is at her station at med time, reminding me its time for meds! Each experience was less stressful and I did what I can to make it as comfortable for her as possible. 1. I selected a spot for administering her medication where she already had positive associations. Each evening, while I fill puzzle toys, Bean joins me on the counter, and we practice targeting together. 2. I found treats that Bean loves most—Tofurkey and her dry kibble. 3. I allowed Bean to remain in her chosen position, sitting down. 4. I always use a considerate approach and gentle handling, approaching her from the side and use gentle handling avoiding holding her mouth shut, and instead, giving her check and neck rubs to encourage swallowing. I follow up with a syringe of water after pilling. 5. When first starting the medications, I chose a liquid medication instead of pills and administered them on the left side of her mouth due to a painful tooth on the other side. This decision to use liquid medication instead of pills was made considering her comfort. She has a dental appointment scheduled to address this issue and was receiving pain medications. After administering the medication, I offered her favorite treat and made the experience more enjoyable by tossing kibble for her to catch. You can find more medication tips by following and at my website, chirrupsandchatter.com If you have trouble medicating your cat, chirrups and chatter can help! I offer individualized cooperative car
📘 🐾3 Veterinary Behavior Textbooks you need on your shelf in animal welfare and vet med! 🏥🐶 Behavior is medicine! 1. “Canine and Feline Behavior for Veterinary Technicians and Nurses” 🐾 This book presents a comprehensive, up-to-date guide for veterinary professionals seeking to understand their patients on a deeper level. The book provides guidance in meeting the behavioral, mental, and emotional needs of dogs and cats, and offers an invaluable daily reference for daily interactions with patients and clients. 2. “Behavior Problems of the Dog & Cat, 4th Edition” 🐾 This book offers diagnostic guidelines, preventive advice, treatment guidelines, and case examples, along with details on the use of drugs and natural supplements to help optimize the behavior services offered in practice. 3. “Veterinary Psychopharmacology” 🧠💊 Designed to be an accessible resource, this book is a comprehensive reference on the use of drugs for veterinary mental health care, it offers thorough explanations of options, and explores why a particular drug should be prescribed, and why it works. Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to provide comprehensive care and behavioral support for caregivers and their pets! 🐾❤️ Follow for more practical tips to help integrate behavioral wellness into animal care
📘 🐾3 Veterinary Behavior Textbooks you need on your shelf in animal welfare and vet med! 🏥🐶 Behavior is medicine! 1. “Canine and Feline Behavior for Veterinary Technicians and Nurses” 🐾 This book presents a comprehensive, up-to-date guide for veterinary professionals seeking to understand their patients on a deeper level. The book provides guidance in meeting the behavioral, mental, and emotional needs of dogs and cats, and offers an invaluable daily reference for daily interactions with patients and clients. 2. “Behavior Problems of the Dog & Cat, 4th Edition” 🐾 This book offers diagnostic guidelines, preventive advice, treatment guidelines, and case examples, along with details on the use of drugs and natural supplements to help optimize the behavior services offered in practice. 3. “Veterinary Psychopharmacology” 🧠💊 Designed to be an accessible resource, this book is a comprehensive reference on the use of drugs for veterinary mental health care, it offers thorough explanations of options, and explores why a particular drug should be prescribed, and why it works. Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to provide comprehensive care and behavioral support for caregivers and their pets! 🐾❤️ Follow for more practical tips to help integrate behavioral wellness into animal care
😻 Join me at HumanePro HSUS expo 🙌 Join me at my workshop Nurturing paws-itive futures: The importance of kitten kindergarten and initiating a shelter program In this workshop, I will delve into the significance of Kitten Kindergarten, teaching kittens essential life skills and fostering their development. You'll learn about the crucial role this phase plays in shaping their physical, emotional, and social growth, and explore the steps to establish a successful program within your animal shelter. Learn more here https://ace24.mapyourshow.com/8_0/sessions/session-details.cfm?scheduleid=218&fbclid=PAAaYGQoCaQ92CaIVjijtQqRD3A935m8cyRhc_4WwY2HMZGLpF9crVMPtE16E_aem_ASCmOY8lvUYp1PErSn4UJi7Xam8I2AgN8e8ldD4emySOfn6CgqNNT3WC9S8BmMOwCAQ
Skip putting the meds in their meals which can cause a food aversion and can often not work after a few attempts and instead do the 1-2-3 medication technique Found 2-3 treats your pet loves and start the process: 1. Approach and offer a treat. 2. Offer a second treat. 3. Reinforce their treat-eating behavior. Gradually introduce adding different foods with the 2nd treat, Experiment with different treat consistencies and flavors. This approach builds trust and cooperation, without trickery. Capsules are also a game-changer, preventing bitterness and simplifying medication administration. Don't miss out and follow for more cooperative care tips! ❤️
🐾 **PSA: Behavior Is Medicine!** 🌟 As Veterinary professionals, We want to provide the best care we can provide and have opportunities to support, educate, and help caregivers. That’s why I am excited to announce I will be creating resources on how to practically apply behavioral wellness into your care To start, lets highlight the importance of integrating behavioral guidance into the care we provide and wellness appointments Here’s a few reasons why it’s crucial: 🔍 Diganostic Tool: Behavior is a key indicator of health. By understanding it, we can enhance well-being and welfare. It aids in diagnosis and assessment of treatment. 🤝 Trust: Caregivers trust us with their concerns. By addressing behavior, we offer support and hope, encouraging timely intervention. 🛡️ Safety: Behavioral insights help us prevent and manage aggressive behaviors, ensuring a safer environment. 💙 Strengthening the human animal bond: Addressing behavior strengthens the beautiful bond between humans and animals. 💸 Revenue Boost: Offering behavioral services not only improves outcomes but also benefits our hospital financially. 🧠 Mental Health Matters: Recognizing mental health’s role in overall well-being is vital. Let’s prioritize it together! Stay tuned for resources and tips on how to practically apply behavior wellness to your care #behaviorismedicine #veterinarycare #AnimalWellness #mentalhealthmatters #vetmed #dogbehavior #catbehaviorassociates #cattraining #dogtraining #listen #vetmed #veterinary #vts #tips #psa #animalwelfare #veterinary #vettech #behavior #cats #dogs
10 out of 10 of my @fearfreepets series of short videos dedicated to quick tips on reducing fear, stress, and pain when handling animals. Handling our patients is just one part of the puzzle. Understanding their body language, and managing their environment and stressors are key elements in reducing their stress levels. Consider things from your patient’s point of view: sights, smells, sounds, touch, and even tastes can influence their stress levels. Prioritize setting up the environment to minimize stressors within your control. This could involve adjusting lighting, noise levels, or even the presence of unfamiliar objects. Here are just a few examples: Nonslip surfaces—Should be made available in all areas of the hospital in which patients have access. Examples include exam and treatment tables, exam and treatment room floors, reception area, kennels/cages, radiograph table, bathing area, scales, etc. Acoustic and/or music therapy— A neutral white noise machine can be used to muffle other hospital sounds. Classical music can be used throughout the hospital to facilitate relaxation and dilute potentially unpleasant sounds associated with the hospital. Incandescent lighting and/or natural lighting—Provides for a more home-like feel. One of my favorite things is inexpensive fluorescent light covers which provide a less stressful environment for animals and humans. Calming pheromones—Can be used on towels, bedding, scrubs, or as a diffuser in all rooms within the hospital. Visual barriers- Examples of visual barriers include plants, brochure stand, the strategic placement of towels, and utilizing tables or other natural barriers while moving patients through the hospital. Fresh needles—For injections, to make for a smooth insertion into the skin. Topical anesthetics—Can be used to numb an area prior to injection or procedures, if medically appropriate. By minimizing pot
9 out of 10 of my Fear Free tips My 9th tip focuses on saving time and decreasing stress when handling our feline and canine patients When it comes to examining our patients, it's important to do so where they feel most comfortable. This may be in the bottom of their carrier elevated on an exam table or a window perch in the room for a cat. It may be with the caregiver in the room with a dropped or loose leash (always assessing body language and factoring in safety) on the floor with a nonslip surface for a dog. 🏥Many clinics I work with have low stools to avoid from having their knees on the floor to replace thr huge office chair rolling towards the patients and commomly causing us to loom over patients during the exam process. ❤️Let's talk comfort. Every pet, just like every human, has unique preferences when it comes to handling. Medium to large dogs often feel secure on the floor, while cats prefer elevated spaces. By considering their natural preferences, we can create an environment that fosters security and well-being. 💕 We need to recognize and celebrate the profound bond between pets and their caregivers. In moments of vulnerability, such as an exam, blood collection, and injections, the presence of their trusted human can be the ultimate source of comfort and reassurance. 🚫 Let's challenge the notion of whisking pets "to the back" during nontrue emergent procedures. This practice can inadvertently increase feelings of fear and apprehension in our patients. Instead, let's prioritize transparency and open communication. I always make sure to ask caregivers if they're comfortable with needles or blood. If not, I invite them to step out and grab a cup of coffee or offer to move to a quieter exam room if there are distractions present. Our goal is to mitigate anxiety and promote trust and security every step of the way. 🕰️ Not only does this approach benefit our patients emotionally, but it also
8 out of 10 of my Fear Free tips My eighth tip focuses on starting off on the right paw when greeting our cat and dog patients. Often, when approaching our patients, we approach similar to how we approach humans, forward approach, leaning in, smiling, looking into eyes, and reaching out for some tough (handshake, hug, high-five), all of these can increase fear and stress in our patients. When greeting our patients, we want to approach with care and consideration. Instead of diving in like you would with a human friend. Approaching with care and consideration includes: 🚫 Avoid direct eye contact or looming over them. 🔄 Turn sideways to appear less intimidating. 🧘♀️ Move smoothly and calmly; sudden movements can startle them. 🐾 Let them approach you first. 🍖 Consider tossing treats or giving the caregiver treats or a toy to give the animal. Avoid placing the pet in a motivational conflict of wanting the food but also wanting to stay at a distance from you, start by tossing the treat rather than reaching out to hand the treat to the pet. And if they're showing signs of fear or anxiety: 🐱 Elevate the cat carrier and cover it. 🐶 Advise caregivers not to hold the leash tightly. 🗣️ Depending on the dog's body language, suggest they drop the leash and let the dog explore. Like and follow for more tips to reduce stress for our feline and canine friends #vettechtok
7 out of 10 of my fear free tip series My seventh tip focuses on decreasing stress while transporting cats and dogs throughout the hospital. Here's a helpful tip to reduce stress and prevent potential conflicts when transporting animals throughout the hospital. When moving animals, it's important to carefully plan the route. Opt for the least stressful path, steering clear of noisy or crowded areas. Keep the staff informed as necessary and take steps to avoid or minimize anything that might frighten the animals. 🚶♂️ Check your route and communicate your plan with teammates. 🏥 Ensure the area is ready and clear for the patient. 🐶 Face the direction you want dogs to go, and use treats for encouragement. 🤝 Utilize gentle control and considerate approaches to minimize Fear, Anxiety, and Stress (FAS). 👀 Choose the least stressful path, avoiding crowded or noisy areas. 🔒 Use barriers during transport to prevent interactions between animals. 🗣️ Inform staff and politely request assistance in opening doors and clearing pathways. 🛑 Minimize potentially frightening stimuli and ensure other patients are moved out of the way. ⚠️ Stay mindful of surroundings, avoiding loud noises and sudden movements. 🙅♂️ Refrain from moving animals through areas with barking dogs, loud equipment, or crowded spaces. Follow and check out my other tips to reduce stress for you and the animals you work with
For as long as she can remember, Tabitha has had a strong connection with animals and knew that she wanted to work with them in her professional and personal life. She grew up with cats, dogs, turtles, rabbits and more. She began volunteering with animal rescues in high school. Once she graduated high school, she wanted to continue to help animals and she went to school to become a veterinary technician. She graduated from Stautzenberger College and passed her board exam, becoming a Registered Veterinary Technician in 2010. As a veterinary technician, Tabitha worked with animal rescue organizations and in general practice. Her work in these fields shed light on repeated occurrences of animal euthanasia and re-homing due to behavior issues, misreading of animal body language, and the suffering that animals and humans endured due to them being misunderstood. This is what first inspired her to become more interested and knowledgeable about animal behavior and training. She quickly became dedicated to learning about the root causes and permanent solutions to feline and canine behavior concerns. She began to teach herself about behavior through continuing education, workshops, speaking to experts, completing her Low Stress Handling and Elite Fear Free Certifications, obtaining her KPA-CTP through the Karen Pryor Academy, and became a Certified Cat Behavior Consultant through the IAABC. I continue to learn from the animals and clients I work with as well as by attending behavior workshops and conferences. Tabitha is also currently working towards her veterinary technician specialty in behavior.
Keeping animals in their loving homes is her utmost goal – this reduces euthanasia as well as displacement of animals from their homes, where they often end up in stressful shelter environments. Helping people better understand and relate to their pets leads to a stronger bond and a more gratifying relationship between animal and human.
Tabitha enjoys sharing her extensive knowledge and experience to help clients resolve, manage, and prevent many types of dog and cat behavior issues, such as house soiling, attention seeking behaviors, destructive behaviors, aggression, fear-based behaviors, tension between pets, introducing new pets, leash pulling, and fear and stress associated with handling and grooming.
Tabitha also offers educational lectures and workshops to the general public, veterinary professionals, training, and shelter professionals. Tabitha revels in educating others through writing, behavior consulting, and lecturing on all things related to cats and dogs. This includes reducing the fear, anxiety, and stress animals and their owners often experience with veterinary visits, handling, travel, and medical procedures, socialization, preventing behavior issues, fear free handling, shelter enrichment and behavior programs, and more.