DOG BEHAVIOURIST
In-Home Behaviour Consultations
Dr Nicky, an experienced and highly qualified dog behaviourist in London, has successfully helped numerous adult dogs and puppies overcome a wide range of behavioural problems.
These include resource guarding towards owners and others, aggressive behaviour towards dogs or people, barking and lunging on lead, and destructive behaviours at home.
With a comprehensive approach to tackling dog behaviour issues, Nicky offers private assessments, consultations, and personalised treatment options across London.
Nicky works on referral from Medivet Gloucester Road and other vet practices.
As Dr Nicky Shaw is an APBC member; you should be able to claim for dog behaviourist services on your pet insurance.
https://www.apbc.org.uk/full_members/nicky-shaw/
Nicky does not treat separation anxiety at this time
METHODS NICKY USES:
Working in collaboration with your vet where necessary to establish or rule out any medical contributors to your dog’s behaviour
Gathering accurate information before starting behaviour modification
Listening, learning, being empathetic and realistic about achievable goals
Identifying your dog's preferences and motivators
Positive reinforcement only
Building you and your dog’s skills and confidence
METHODS NICKY DOES NOT USE:
Making you feel judged, ashamed or incompetent
Negative reinforcement, positive punishment
Deliberate physical/verbal intimidation or force in order to stop or reduce behaviours
Equipment that causes pain or fear e.g., spray collars, prong collars [shock or “E” collars will thankfully be banned in England from 1st February 2024]
Putting you or your dog in situations that you have not been given the skills to cope with
A ‘one size fits all’ approach to training and behaviour challenges
DR NICKY:
Upholds the professional standards set out by the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC)
Adheres to the Code of Conduct for Clinical Animal Behaviour professionals as set out by ASAB
Holds full public liability and professional indemnity insurance.
Has a full DBS check
Is a qualified canine first aider
Depending on your dog’s insurance policy, you may be eligible to claim fees back
All fees are payable in advance of the training or behaviour session. Fees are non-refundable except under extenuating circumstances - 48-hours’ notice is required for cancellations/ reschedules
A SPRINKLE OF GRATITUDE
“I wish to God I’d found you sooner”
“From the very first phone call to the last meet up we had, Nicky was calm, non-judgemental and came up with great ideas to help with Bailey’s behaviour. The change in Bailey has been amazing; I’m enjoying him a lot more and his confidence is definitely growing. I really can’t thank Nicky enough”
“Nicky’s expertise drastically reduced Bear’s resource guarding, A+ service”
“Nicky, you are an Oracle! Everything you say and how you say it resonates with me and is new, not the old school teaching I find online. You have created a very special spaniel”
FAQ’s
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Yes. Most policies will cover behaviour consultations and follow up visits by members of the APBC - double check your policy. Dr Nicky will provide you with a vet referral form, questionnaire, and a copy of your report provided to your vet and/ or insurance company to complete the claim.
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Yes. Nicky offers private assessments and home consultations in Chelsea and many surrounding areas.
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A full behaviour consultation typically lasts around two hours. This allows for a thorough assessment of your dog's behaviour and provides ample time for discussion, addressing questions, and demonstrating practical strategies to get you started right away.
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The written report provided after a full behaviour consultation includes a diagnosis and a detailed treatment program for your dog's behaviour issues. It serves as a comprehensive guide for you to follow, outlining the recommended strategies and techniques to address the specific behaviour concerns discussed during the consultation. With your consent, a copy of the report will be sent to your vet, ensuring collaboration and comprehensive care for your dog's well-being.
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A full behaviour consultation is a comprehensive process that requires a vet referral. It involves an initial meeting with Nicky at your home, typically lasting around two hours. During this consultation, you'll have the opportunity to discuss and address various questions and concerns regarding your dog's behaviour. Nicky will observe your dog's behaviour, provide practical strategies, and work with you to develop a detailed treatment program. A written report, including a diagnosis and treatment plan, will be provided, and with your consent, a copy will be sent to your vet. In some cases, one or two follow-up sessions may be required for further assistance. Most insurance policies cover dog behaviourist services by Nicky as she is a member of the APBC.
A behaviour assessment is a more focused and concise option which does not require vet referral. It also takes place at your home and can last up to two hours. During the assessment, Dr Nicky will evaluate your dog's behaviour and provide immediate practical strategies and training techniques to address the specific problem behaviours. A behaviour assessment does not include a written report, and follow-up sessions may or may not be required based on the assessment outcome.
Both options aim to help you understand and manage your dog's behavioural issues effectively. Choosing between a full behaviour consultation and a behaviour assessment depends on the complexity and extent of the behaviour problems you are experiencing with your dog. It's best to consult with Nicky.
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Every case is different and you may or may not need at least one follow up session. These sessions should also be covered by your insurance policy. You can discuss this with Nicky.
