Janice Liscinsky CPDT-KA, ABCDT, LFDM-T
What is a Family Dog Mediator (FDM)?
A Family Dog Mediator (FDM) is an individual with special training and education above and beyond training or behavior consulting. It is a movement to raise the bar of public understanding about pet dogs through integrated science and innovative practical solutions. We welcome you to MEET YOUR DOG! (Meet your Dog is a book I highly recommend for all to read by Kim Brophy, CDBC, CPDT-KA) who put together this wonderful educational course.
See the link below to learn more:
https://kimbropheylegscourses.thinkific.com/courses/legs-applied-ethology-family-dog-mediation-professional-course?ref=dc7d09&fbclid=IwAR3tdIlVSUdZdvMCUuboK9avUu6axiJbAGMqXfNJTGPfOmOmmhDVol958i8
FDM’s assess each animal based on their L.E.G.S.—which includes each dog’s Learning, Environment, Genetics, and Self–as each plays a critical role in the animal’s behavior.
Learning – dog’s are learning all day, every day through all the experiences in their life. It is not all about obedience training but understanding the importance of their learning throughout their life (experiences, training, socialization, trauma). Your dog is learning what works in all types of situations and it is our job to teach them how it all works so they succeed with confidence!
Environment – What kind of environment is the dog living in and experiencing both past and present? Environment is everything your dog encounters and interacts with creating both questions and answers for your dog–Am I safe? What do I do in this situation? I know what to do and how to handle this! Our job as humans is to control and manage the environment, keeping it safe, and making sure it provides the things our dogs need.
Genetics – What does your dog’s family tree look like? While you might know your dog’s genetic make-up it does not necessarily predict their behavior, but it can prepare you to help manage breed specific behaviors his ancestors were bred for. What might be arousing? What type of behaviors was he selected for?
Dog’s have been bred in significant ways over generations to exhibit certain behaviors that humans found invaluable such as (herding livestock, killing rodents and protection of property) which resulted in the hundreds of breeds we have today. Knowing what kind of “job” is in your dog’s DNA can provide both valuable insight as well as better understanding of their behaviors and what we can do to help.
Self – considers the dog sitting directly in front of us. What is the dog experiencing as an individual? What kinds of internal conditions could be affecting his behavior? Age? Sex? Nutrition? Disability? Many “behavior problems” are really medical issues (pain, infection, etc.) and can be the cause of behavior changes in our dog. We need to get the whole story and this includes examinations and testing. Talk to your vet regarding any concerning behavior changes right away!
Family Dog Mediators evaluate the dog’s L.E.G.S and help mediate the places where there are conflicts between dogs and owners. We help you manage your expectations for your dog’s behavior, help translate what your dog needs from you, and help you meet those needs. We also help by giving you the tools to modify behavior so that you can live happily with your pet!
