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In this course, Eddie Fernandez will discuss stereotypies in animals. Eddie has worked with zoo animals for many years, and stereotypies are a common problem. These animals are in an unnatural environment and when their basic, instinctive needs are not met, it is not unusual for them to develop stereotypies. Companion animals can also develop stereotypies. Eddie will talk about what a stereotypy is, how to assess a situation to determine if it is a stereotypy, and if so, how to resolve the problem.
Stereotypies are not an everyday occurrence for most trainers, so it is important to be able to recognize one if we should run across it; if we do not realize what we are dealing with, we can spend a great deal of time and client money and never resolve the problem. If we realize what we are dealing with, we can make an informed decision – even if that decision is to refer the client to a veterinary behaviorist. Stereotypies are very upsetting to owners and the more we understand, the more help we can give.
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