Navigating Feather-Destructive Behaviors with Belinda Young [Episode 245]

Animal Training Academy

A Journey of Resilience and Innovation with Belinda Young [Episode 245]

In this episode of the Animal Training Academy Podcast, Ryan Cartlidge welcomes Belinda Young, an accomplished animal trainer and cherished member of the ATA team. With over a decade of experience, Belinda has worked extensively with dogs, cats, and parrots, specialising in reward-based training methods and tackling complex behavioral challenges.

In this episode Belinda shares an extraordinary case study featuring Scramble, her charismatic crimson-bellied conure. Scramble's journey with feather-destructive behavior - a challenge unique to captive parrots - is the centerpiece of this episode, offering listeners a raw, insightful, and inspiring look into the intricacies of animal training and behavior management.

Through heartfelt discussion, Belinda details her exploration of medical, environmental, and behavioral interventions to support Scramble’s recovery. She emphasises the importance of collaboration with veterinarians and behaviorists, the power of targeted cognitive training, and her commitment to addressing Scramble's emotional and physical needs.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode:

• The unique challenges of feather-destructive behaviors in parrots.
• Insights into using environmental enrichment and targeted cognitive training to support behavioral change.
• How collaboration and community support are pivotal in navigating complex cases.
• Practical strategies and creative solutions applicable to multiple species and behavioral challenges.

Why This Episode is a Must-Listen: Belinda’s journey is a testament to the resilience required when faced with unforeseen training challenges and the transformative power of persistence, learning, and compassion. Whether you’re managing feather-destructive behaviors, working with domestic or exotic animals, or seeking inspiration to tackle tough training problems, this episode is brimming with invaluable insights.

Links:

Scramble is @nevershakeababybird on instagram.

Belindas' website is www.treatplaylove.com.au and business facebook is www.facebook.com/treatplaylovetraining/