Tampa Bay Animal Friendly Trainers Agreement:

TBAFT Trainers agree to:

  1. TBAFT trainers do not advocate for harsh aversive stimulation in dog training or behavior change programming. TBAFT trainers train animals without the use of intimidation, fear or pain. TBAFT trainers vow to use training tools that are animal friendly, so the use of choke chains, prong collars, and of course shock are avoided. Animals are not sprayed with water or hit with hands or objects. TBAFT trainers do not recommend to throw things at or near animals or to shout at animals. AS with other aversive stimulation the potential fallout (unwanted side effects) from these methods outweigh any possible benefit. Positive reinforcement is the most powerful way to modify behavior and TBAFT trainers are committed to its primary use in the training of people and animals. We are about emphasizing fun and play while learning. Stress is incompatible with fun and play, therefore should be minimized at all times.
  2. Always be kind to and supportive of others in email or in person. Treat others respectfully even when debating. When debating, the focus is on the topic and not the person, and all debating is done in a kind manner.
  3. Information is only shared with the permission of the original author. TBAFT trainers use proper citations and do not claim the work of others as their own. Client information is kept confidential. Peer supervision is part of the function of our group, but client details are changed to protect the confidentiality of the client.
  4. The endorsement of programs, dogs, people or products by the TBAFT group, is subject to the agreement of all members. No one member can speak for our group.
  5. TBAFT trainers are committed to continuing our education. As a group we recognize the constantly expanding knowledgebase of the sciences of behavior and learning. We attend seminars, conferences, read journals and books, and make use of other means to expand our knowledge.

Return to our list of trainers.

TBAFT Group Shot

Back row: Carol Comer, Preston Hardie, Steve Pica, Maureen Schooley, Terry Wade, Johnny Angel, Marilyn Wolf, Kathy Phebus, Beth York, Maren Jensen, Rachel Kelly holding Doody, Chihuahua
Front row: Amy Donohue with Border Collie, Colt, Ivonne Acevedo, Janet Jacobson, Beth Nugent, Jacque Munera, Angelica Steinker