UK veterinarian Grace and I talk about her Romanian Rescue dog Piper and how being the guardian of a challenging dog has impacted her work as a veterinarian.
What were the advantages she had, being a vet already, in dealing with her dog?

We also talk about all the terms and certifications being thrown around that relate to animal behavior and training. Are there vet behaviorists in the UK? Who can call themselves that?

Did you know you can do a master’s level studies in animal behavior in the UK?

But also, did you know many veterinarians have not been taught about dog body language in vet school?

How does she start the conversation about behavior with dog guardians who may be oblivious to the plight of their dog?

And what about ruling out pain? Turns out that you as the guardian are the person in the best position to notice if chronic pain is an issue.

I also ask Grace what makes a good veterinarian in her view. The number one thing: “Find someone who will really listen to you and not dismiss you.”

Links:

Grace and Piper on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/piper_thesleepybean/