How-it-works | Eastern Cape

How it Works?

First and foremost - Hart Behaviour ONLY condones and makes use of positive behaviour modification and training methods. This means that animals are treated with compassion and respect, and not frightened into changing their behaviour - no smacking, no threatening postures, manipulations or use of dominance/pack theory or rank reduction programmes, and absolutely no aversive equipment. This means no shock collars, choke chains or prong collars. All of the above is outdated and will only incite fear, counteracting any progress made during behaviour modification. It will also negatively affect your relationship with your animals. Please note that although this may sound "airy-fairy" to some, positive-based training methods have been thoroughly researched and are proven to be the most humane way to modify behaviour in animals.

I use the MHERA (Mood State Assessment, Hedonic Budget Evaluation, Emotionality and Reinforcement Analysis) method, developed by COAPE (Centre of Applied Pet Ethology) International. This involves the assessment of each individual animal, meaning that every assessment will be different - there is no blanket 'diagnosis'. Every client and their animal are unique and have unique needs.

With the facts provided by the guardian, as well as the information collected at the home consultation, I will put together a behaviour modification programme. Once the programme is sent, along with my support, it is up to the guardian to implement it. I am available for follow-up implementation and training sessions, but because consistency is so important in modifying behaviour, it will be up to the guardian to do the bulk of the work with their animal in their environment. I will be there every step of the way to provide you with the tools and the knowledge to bring harmony to your home and to help you and your animal grow your relationship and have a better understanding of one another.

The Process:

Email me with a brief description of the behavioural concerns that you are encountering with your animal.
A consultation form will then be emailed back to you. This is a basic questionnaire that will allow you to provide me with further details about you and your animal. An indemnity form will also be sent to you at this stage.
A full veterinary check prior to the behaviour consultation may be required in some cases to rule out any medical or pain-related problems.
Once you have returned the forms to me, we will be able to go ahead and set up an appointment at your home (or online where suitable). It is necessary for you (and preferably as many family members as possible) to be at home during the consultation. A consultation averages about two hours, depending on the specific behavioural concern.
After your consultation, I will put together a behaviour modification plan specifically designed for you and your animal. I will email this to you within seven days of your consultation. It is essential to follow this plan as closely and consistently as possible to get the best results.
Further support will be available via email or telephone. Follow-up sessions can be arranged if necessary.