11/19/2025
We are part of the steering committee for the Joint Standards of Practice (JSOP) coalition. We are pleased to share that the coalition has recently updated the Standards of Practice, and they now align more closely with the professional standards we uphold at Karen Pryor Academy. While KPA will continue to maintain our own comprehensive standards for Certified Training Partners, the revised JSOP Standards are now close to the benchmarks we have always promoted. This update is a positive step for the broader training community, bringing industry-wide standards even closer to the principles of skillful, positive-reinforcement training.
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The Joint Standards of Practice: Strengthening Standards Through Collaboration
Weβre proud to share new updates to the Joint Standards of Practice (JSOP), a collaborative effort uniting leading organizations in the animal training and behavior field. Since 2018, the JSOP has promoted science-based, humane, and ethical practices across the profession. Endorsed by IAABC, APDT, Karen Pryor Academy, ADI, Grisha Stewart Academy, Science Matters, Understand Horses, Victoria Stilwell Academy, and the IAABC Foundation, this shared framework supports professional integrity and animal well-being. The latest updates reflect our evolving understanding of learning and behavior and reaffirm our commitment to a unified, compassionate approach. More updates and opportunities for feedback are coming in the new year. We look forward to continuing this journeyβtogether: https://bit.ly/4nYnmE7