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Hello! I’m Dr. Kristina Spaulding, PhD, CAAB, dog behavior science instructor & geek

I love learning about dog behavior and the science that drives it (and makes us better able to change it, too). But what I love most is sharing that learning with my fellow dog trainers, behavior consultants, and other animal lovers.

Hello! I’m Dr. Kristina Spaulding, PhD, CAAB, dog behavior science instructor & geek

 

I love learning about dog behavior and the science that drives it (and makes us better able to change it, too). But what I love most is sharing that learning with my fellow dog trainers, behavior consultants, and behavior consultants.

What I bring to the table

My Academic and Dog Training & Behavior Credentials

CAAB—Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist through the Animal Behavior Society

PhD in biopsychology—the study of the biological basis of behavior

Creator and instructor of online courses for the IAABC Foundation

2019 APDT Member of the Year Award

IAABC Foundation Board Member

B.S. in Wildlife Ecology

Previous university instructor on behavior science, including courses on learning, neuroscience, and evolution and behavior

Regular training and behavior conference speaker on the science of behavior

What to expect from me as an instructor—forewarned is forearmed!

 

First of all, I’ll just own it. I really am a geek. As in, I get super excited about science stuff and dog behavior and new ideas. And I love sharing it all. Really love it. So, you should probably expect a bit of enthusiasm.

Secondly, I have high standards. I think our industry could use a much deeper dive into the knowledge behind our craft. So, you should expect to encounter much deeper material with me, and to study it at a higher level. Essentially, I take a college approach rather than a conference one.

Thirdly, though, my standards for myself are just as high. If I’m going to ask you to do the work, you should know I’ll be working my tail off to make sure you’re successful. You’ll find me prepared, full of creative ideas to help you really “get it” and be able to use it, and always ready to offer extra help or support. Because I’m also really friendly and always happy to chat science and dogs.

What we do

Education of animal professionals about the science of animal behavior and wellbeing

How we do it

Through online education, membership programs and in person events. Something about increasing dialogue between professionals and researchers.

At Science Matters, we:

  • Treat people with respect and kindness

  • Foster a supportive community of like-minded professionals and animal lovers

  • Strive for personal empowerment

  • Believe in the power of science

  • Foster critical thinking skills

  • Promote education and access to education

  • Strive to conduct business in a way that is in harmony with the natural world and support our local community

  • Actively work toward improved welfare and wellbeing for animals and their people