01/05/2025
Though I never had the pleasure of meeting Karen Pryor personally, her impact on my career as a dog trainerโand on countless others in the animal training worldโis immeasurable. The world of positive reinforcement training and the pet/animal behavior industry would not be what it is today without her groundbreaking work. ๐
I first learned Karenโs name in Psych 101, where her research and approach to animal behavior were introduced. Over the years, her influence only grew stronger. No matter where I wentโwhether at conferences, at SeaWorld, the LA Zoo, or the Long Beach Aquariumโher name was always brought up, and her philosophies were embraced and celebrated. ๐ฌ๐ฆ๐ข
Karenโs dedication to kind, science-based training continues to shape the way we work with animals today. I'm forever grateful for the legacy she left behind and the doors she opened for positive reinforcement trainers around the world.
She will be deeply missed, but her contributions and passion will live on in every life she touched. ๐
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We are deeply saddened to learn of Karen Pryor's passing. She was a pioneer in animal training and behaviour whose contributions have shaped modern dog training as we know it. Her innovative approach and entrepreneurial spirit transformed the industry, paving the way for countless trainers and animals to benefit from science-based, positive reinforcement methods.
Karenโs work extended far beyond the Karen Pryor Academy, which has educated and inspired trainers worldwide. Her book, Donโt Shoot the Dog, introduced an entire generation of trainers to the principles of clicker training and remains a cornerstone of dog training literature. The annual Clicker Expos she founded became vital opportunities for professional growth, collaboration, and community-building within the field. Her legacy also includes Reaching the Animal Mind, a profound exploration of the science and art of animal training.
Karenโs vision, intelligence, and compassion revolutionised how we communicate with and understand our canine companions. Her contributions have had a lasting impact on the lives of trainers and the dogs they work and live with. She will be greatly missed, but her legacy will continue to inspire and guide the animal training community for generations to come.
Our thoughts are with Karenโs family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched.
https://karenwpryor.com/