Positive reinforcement: what does it actually mean?
Positive reinforcement is a term we hear constantly in animal training. But it is also a term that is frequently misunderstood or used incorrectly. If you are a cat, dog or horse guardian, it is important to understand what positive reinforcement actually is, and, just as importantly, what it is not. So simply, what is […]
What Is Littermate Syndrome? A Complete Guide for Dog Owners
Thinking of adopting two puppies at the same time? It sounds like the perfect idea-they’ll keep each other company, play together, and grow up as best friends. Unfortunately, that’s not always what happens. Many owners are surprised to discover that raising two puppies together can lead to behavioural challenges known as littermate syndrome. While it’s […]
Dog Walker: Yay or Nay?
For many dog guardians, hiring a dog walker feels like a responsible and caring decision. Life gets busy, dogs have energy, and walking is often seen as essential to good welfare. But from a behaviour perspective, the question isn’t “Do dogs need walks?”It’s “Does this dog benefit from this type of walk?” The answer is […]
What Actually Is “Ethical” Horse Breeding?
“Ethical breeding” is a phrase that’s widely used, but rarely clearly defined. In practice, many breeding decisions are still driven by market trends, aesthetics, or tradition rather than welfare, long-term soundness, or the future quality of life of the horse itself (McGreevy & McLean, 2010). Ethical horse breeding is not about producing more horses. It […]
The Importance of Slowly Introducing a New Cat
Bringing a new cat into your home is an exciting moment, but for the cat, it can be one of the most stressful experiences of their life. Cats are territorial animals that rely on familiarity, scent, and routine to feel safe. A slow, methodical introduction to a new household is not optional, it is essential […]
Which Pet Insurance Plans Cover Animal Behaviour in South Africa?
When your pet struggles with fear, anxiety, reactivity, or other behavioural challenges, getting the right professional support can make a world of difference. But many guardians wonder: Does pet insurance in South Africa cover behaviour consultations? The answer is sometimes, and it depends heavily on the insurer and the plan you choose. Below is a […]
Advocating for Your Horse When Working With Service Providers
When you practise reward-based (R+) horsemanship, your training methods, your expectations, and the way you want your horse handled can look very different from traditional approaches. While many owners are shifting toward kinder, science-backed handling, not all equine service providers—like farriers, vets, bodyworkers, or dental technicians – are used to working with R+ trained horses. […]
Hosting for the Holidays With a Reactive Dog
The festive season brings joy, celebration, and… visitors.For many dogs, especially reactive ones, this can feel overwhelming. New smells, new voices, unpredictable movement… it’s a lot to process. But with a bit of planning and empathy, you can make holiday gatherings safer, calmer, and far more comfortable for both your dog and your guests. Why […]
Christmas with Cats – Holiday Hazards
The festive season is a time of warmth, celebration, and decorating our homes with beautiful, shiny things… which, to your cat, look like toys, climbing frames, and hunting targets.It’s completely normal for cats to be curious during the holidays, but with that curiosity comes a few risks. Knowing what to avoid – and how to […]
Dominance Theory Is Dead: What Modern Science Says About Horse Behaviour
For decades, horse training was built on the idea that horses are always trying to climb a social ladder – and that humans must act as the “alpha,” “lead mare,” or dominant persona to earn respect. But research and science have made one thing very clear: Dominance theory is outdated, inaccurate, and often harmful to […]