Flying Ravens

If you've attended my Positive Reinforcement Training Class you know that I begin by talking about the leaders in the field of animal behavior and training: Steve Martin, Barbara Heidenreich and Dr. Susan Friedman. I've been incredibly fortunate to work with each of them at various seminars and workshops and these have been eye-opening, mind-broadening, life-changing experiences. If you've visited Parrot University on training day or seen any of the videos on our website, you can see some of the things I've learned being put into practice.

So in this month's training column, I want to tell you about an amazing opportunity that you can have this October 6-7. 

Companion Parrots Re-homed is bringing Dr. Susan Friedman to town to conduct her 'Living and Learning with Animals' workshop for us. Generally, this class is taught as a webinar and it's a big time commitment, has a long waiting list, and is a bit pricey for most folks. You, however, have the chance to attend this workshop in a two day seminar right here in Pineville for only $85 (which includes lunch on both days). 

Dr. Friedman, who teaches psychology at Utah State University, has worked with animals all over the world and also worked with juvenile delinquents. As I say in my class, it doesn't matter what or who you want to train; the psychology behind training is the same for every living being. Dr. Friedman uses her wide experience to illustrate this beautifully.

I wonder if some people will look at the course description and think it will be over their head -- don't be intimidated. Susan uses lots of pictures and videos to illustrate the concepts, along with discussion and question and answer sessions. I find that the more I'm exposed to these concepts the more they sink in. You'll likely have one (or more) of Oprah's famous "Aha" moments throughout the weekend.

You'll have a chance to really understand the cause and effect relationship of behavior and the critical role the environment plays. This opens a whole world of opportunity to you to change undesirable behavior and train desired behaviors. No more feeling lost, desperate or overwhelmed by something's (or someone's) behavior. You'll learn to analyze the situation, rearrange the environment and produce better results. And the real bonus is that you as the teacher, and the other participant, as the learner, are each empowered. Your relationship improves exponentially as a result of using these methods.

I want everybody to take advantage of this opportunity, but seating will be limited. Make sure you get to participate by filling out the registration form and mailing your check to hold your seat. Click for details and registration form.

You don't want to miss this!  Look for me, because I'll certainly be there. I'll be the one hanging on Susan's every word.

See you in October. Meanwhile, train away!

Want to learn more? Reserve your seat now for the next free, Positive Reinforcement Training Class on Sunday, May 20 at 2 pm at Parrot University.

Fiona, Parrlotlet

We're still seeking Saturday help at Parrot U to keep both birds and people safe. We also need some help on Sunday, May 20, and Sunday, May 27. If you are available for any of these dates, please let me know. I can also start signing people up for Saturdays in June. We ask that you be there from approximately 1 pm to 4 pm.

Maybe it's because spring has arrived and people are busy with projects outdoors or weekend trips, but response to the last couple of email requests for help has been sparse. If you're in our volunteer database and haven't received an email from me lately, please check your "spam" folder.

We had a lovely experience at Sam's Club in Pineville on April 28. Buddy, Robbie, and Maxwell were our stars for this event. Meghan Stewart helped Debbie Foster and me. Meghan, thank you...you were really a great representative for CPR. I especially enjoyed watching you get down eyeball to eyeball with children to talk with them.

A special thanks to Bank of America employees who form the "Paws and Claws" animal rescue, for inviting us again to their spring adoption event this past month. As always, we met lots of new folks who are interested in adoption. Bosley, Emma Jane, Skylar and Laney represented us exceptionally well at Founder's Hall.

Thanks to everyone for your help looking after these magnificent feathered creatures in our care.

Please contact me at volunteer@companionparrots.org if you'd like to get involved. Thank you!