From experience as a Registered Veterinary Nurse, in line with best practice and the APBC code of conduct, I consult with a client's Veterinary Surgeon and request a clinical history before the initial consultation for behavioural issues. Following consultations, I provide referring Vets with a summary report to keep you up to date.
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I am a Full Member of the APBC. As a result, many pet insurance companies will cover my fees (please ask your clients to call their insurance companies to confirm).
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I cover Perthshire, Dundee, Fife, and Stirling for in person sessions and offer online sessions too. I can help owners solve and manage their dog's behaviour so they can enjoy life together.
"I've always enjoyed working with Karen - I first met her many years ago when attending classes with my dog which were always fantastic! In more recent years I've been delighted to be able to refer clients to her as a Clinical Animal Behaviourist, particularly as having worked with her with my own dogs, I know she is kind, supportive, and lovely to work with, as well as being an excellent trainer and behaviourist.
She's communicative and keeps us updated on the pet's progress and behavioural treatment plan, which is helpful particularly when there may be medical factors at play as well, as it's important as a vet that we keep in mind the physical health of the pet and its impact on their mental health and behaviour."
Ben MRCVS
Your clients & patients deserve the best
Unfortunately, the dog training industry is unregulated meaning anyone can call themselves a trainer or behaviourist. This was highlighted in the Veterinary Times in an article titled 'Behavioural referrals - who to choose' (click here to view).​
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I have spent many years gaining what are considered to be the most important qualifications within the industry, including a PGDip in Clinical Animal Behaviour from The Royal (DICK) School of Veterinary Studies, to ensure my knowledge is up-to-date and of the highest level. After all, your clients and their dogs deserve the best!
Education, Qualifications & Experience
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Full member of Association of Pet Behaviour Consellors
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Registered Clinical Animal Behaviourist with the Animal Behaviour & Training Council
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Registered Animal Training Instructor with the Animal Behaviour & Training Council
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Member of Association of Pet Dog Trainers
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Registered Veterinary Nurse
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PGDip in Clinical Animal Behaviour from the University of Edinburgh
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BSc Honours in Veterinary Nursing
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Karen Pryor Academy - Certified Training Partner
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Faculty Advisor at the Victoria Stilwell Academy
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Distinction in Dog Training at Centre of Applied Pet Ethology
Karen Bachell
MAPDT 01150
How I can help
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I listen to a client's concerns and goals.
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I identify underlying motivations for the inappropriate behaviour.
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I advise clients on how to manage their dog's behaviour to reduce stress and the rehearsal of unwanted behaviours.
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A behavioural modification programme will be put in place to alter the dog's perceptions and emotional response to triggers, which alters behaviour, reducing reactions.
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At all times the patient's (and owner's) emotional welfare is safeguarded with all programmes tailor-made to set all parties up for success.
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Positive reinforcement, force-free, counter-conditioning and desensitisation methods are employed. I will never use pain, fear of intimation tactics.
How to refer
If you are a Veterinary Surgeon and wish to refer a behavioural case please -
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Complete my online referral form - click here to complete
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Upload a full clinical history (a file upload field is available in the form). This allows me to make informed decisions regarding behavioural modification plans, and how any medical condition or medication may affect your patient's behaviour.
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Ask your client to get in touch with me directly.
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I will be in touch to request a referral form to be completed and a copy of the clinical history.
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If you have any questions please get in touch.