Positive Dog Training & Behaviour Blog | Walkabout Canine Consulting
Unleashing your dogs potential, one concept at a time
Who am I
Sylvia Koczerzuk Koczerzuk 
Hello!
I’m Sylvia Koczerzuk, the owner and operator of Walkabout Canine Consulting. I am excited to connect with you and share my passion for helping animals and their families thrive through behaviour consulting and training. My goal is to be a trusted partner, supporting your work and contributing to a harmonious, enriching experience for your clients and their pets.
About My Background My love for animals began in childhood, and my dedication to their well-being only grew with time. I started my career in the pet industry early, and after studying business in college, I managed a Veterinary Hospital, where I gained invaluable insights into animal husbandry, behaviour, and training. From there, my journey has included extensive work and volunteering with shelters and rescues as both a foster and a behaviour manager. This experience, combined with managing diverse cases in home environments, has given me a deep understanding of animal behaviour in various settings.
Experience and Qualifications
Since founding Walkabout Canine Consulting in 1995, I have dedicated myself to helping animals and their guardians through individualized training, behaviour assessments, and consultations. I am a Certified Pet Dog Trainer and Certified Dog Behaviour Consultant with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), credentials that require ongoing Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to stay current. My career highlights include attending Dr. Ian Dunbar’s workshops, studying at the renowned San Francisco SPCA Dog Training Academy, and working under the mentorship of leading animal behaviourists and trainers (there are too many to include), including Dr. Susan Friedman at Behaviour Works. Additionally, as a certified Dynamic Dog Practitioner, I am trained in posture and gait analysis, allowing me to assess physical movement and body alignment that can help veterinarians look at possible underlying discomfort that could be contributing to behavioural
Working with a Certified Dog Behaviour Consultant (CDBC):
A Valuable Partnership for You and Your Clients - What I Bring to the Table:
- Certification Requirements for Behaviour Consultants
The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) requires rigorous standards: extensive coursework, hands-on experience with behaviour cases, and references from veterinarians, colleagues, and clients. Certified consultants must also pursue ongoing education to stay current in animal behaviour science.
- Specialized Expertise: IAABC (iaabc.org)certified behaviour consultants are uniquely qualified to assess, manage, and modify a wide range of challenging behaviours that may affect your patients, including aggression, anxiety, and self-destructive behaviours.
- Comprehensive Support: I take thorough behavioural histories and assess environmental, medical, and emotional factors impacting each case. This holistic approach aligns with and complements your veterinary care, creating an all-encompassing wellness plan.
- Up-to-Date Knowledge: As a consultant I continuously pursue advanced education, including required Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to maintain certification. This commitment to learning ensures your clients benefit from the latest, most effective solutions in animal behaviour.
How This Benefits Your Practice:
- Strengthens Pet-Client Relationships: Through positive techniques, I help your clients build a trusting relationship with their pets, leading to fewer behaviour issues and smoother veterinary visits.
- Enhances Client Loyalty: Providing a trusted referral to a certified and qualified professional demonstrates your commitment to comprehensive pet care, fostering client satisfaction and trust in your services.
- Supports Your Staff: Animals with improved behaviour are easier to handle, reducing stress for your staff and creating a safer, calmer clinic environment.
Additional Ways a CDBC Can Support Your Clients:
- Preventative Behaviour Guidance: We provide new pet owners with the information and skills to prevent behaviour issues before they begin.
- Support During Life Transitions: Whether it’s a move, a new family member, or a change in routine, we help clients, and their pets navigate life changes smoothly, reducing stress on everyone involved.
Partnering with a CDBC Consultant: A CDBC is more than a trainer—they are a qualified ally to help you and your clients manage behavioural concerns. You can check out my www.walkboutcanineconsulting.org to learn more about me and I would love to speak with you if you have any questions, I can be reached either by email walkaboutcanineconsulting@gmail.com or 226-326-3948.
