fb
Portal Log In
Portal Log In

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 believe in:

…Learning and growth. We promote lifelong learning through curiosity, questioning, and the scientific process, and by embracing the inherent challenge and uncertainty the comes with deep, transformational learning.
 
…The power of science. We stand by the rigorous pursuit of knowledge through evidence-based reasoning, critical thinking, and ethical inquiry. We reject misinformation and uphold science as a tool for progress, equity, and understanding.
 
…Building community. We cultivate a diverse, inclusive, and supportive community that embraces each person as a unique individual. We honor the process of learning by creating a safe place for learners to take risks, fail forward, and grow.
 
…Personal empowerment. We help students overcome imposter syndrome and overwhelm by fostering confidence and agency and help students clarify their personal path toward success and service. We also aim to enhance opportunities for underprivileged groups by providing scholarships for those unable to pay full-price for our services.
 
…Compassion and kindness. We approach our work and relationships with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to the well-being of people and animals. We believe that true progress is rooted in care for others and the world around us.
 
…Advocating for animals and protecting the planet. We are committed to serving non-human animals by improving and enriching their lives. We also take responsibility for minimizing our impact on the climate and using sustainable practices.
 
…Providing a living wage. We are committed to providing a living wage to Science Matters employees, recognizing that fair compensation supports our values and sustains the business. By upholding the principle of “right livelihood” – ethical and meaningful work – we increase our ability to serve with integrity and create meaningful change.

Be Science Smart
Join the Science Matters mailing list

 

Be the first to know about new courses, course schedules, live speaking events, new blog posts, and research breakthroughs that matter to dog trainers.

Sign up to stay informed
science-matters-dog
inclusive-flag-med
Facebook Instagram Linkedin

Science Matters Academy of Animal Behavior LLC © 2024

FAQs
Contact Us
Log in