Where to Get Help
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your adopted shepherd, your first phone call should be to the breed rescue volunteer or shelter worker from whom you adopted your shepherd. This person will know your individual shepherd well and will have a reference point on which to base any advice. Additionally, particularly in the case of German shepherd breed rescues, this volunteer will be in tune with the shepherd breed and will know the challenges the breed can present and have some possible solutions to offer.
If the situation is more complex or the solutions you're offered by the rescue or shelter just aren't working, there are other resources you can turn to for help. These professionals include the following (details provided in Appendix A):
Veterinary behaviorist: This individual not only holds a veterinary degree (DVM) but is also a diplomate, or board-certified specialist, of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB). To find a veterinary behaviorist, contact the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
Veterinary behavior consultant: This individual is not board certified; however, he has in-depth knowledge of behavior, as well as behavior modification training and medical therapies. The AVMA can also be contacted for referrals to veterinary behavior consultants, as can the Animal Hospital Association of America.
Animal behaviorist: The veterinary behaviorist might be called the psychiatrist of the canine world. The certified animal behaviorist — who holds a Ph.D. in animal behavior and is certified through the Animal Behavior Society (ABS) — would then be the psychologist. Unlike the veterinary behaviorist, the certified animal behaviorist cannot prescribe medications for your dog. Animal behaviorists can be located by contacting the ABS at the American Editorial Office for Animal Behavior.
Trainer: To find an accomplished trainer who is good at solving behavioral challenges, contact your veterinarian, breed rescue, shelter, German shepherd breeder, and other canine-savvy individuals for referrals. You may also try contacting the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT).
