COAPE’s core beliefs

For over 30 years, COAPE International has been at the forefront of teaching ethical, kind and compassionate approaches in the realm of animal behaviour education,

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Do you need a trainer or behaviourist?

In the realm of animal care and training, the roles of animal trainers and animal behaviourists often intertwine, yet they serve distinct functions in the welfare and behavioural management of animals.

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Consent in cats

In the realm of animal behaviour, understanding the concept of consent is essential for fostering healthy relationships between humans and their pets. While consent may seem straightforward in human interactions, deciphering it in the context of feline behaviour requires a deeper understanding of their communication cues and body language.

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Nurturing the bond between animals and people

The bond between companion animals and people is a profound and transformative connection that extends beyond mere companionship. As an animal enthusiasts and advocates of holistic animal care, understanding and nurturing this bond is at the heart of what we do at COAPE International.

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Health benefits of having pets

Pets have a special place in our hearts, providing unconditional love and companionship. Beyond the joy they bring, scientific research has increasingly revealed that having pets can significantly impact our physical, mental, and emotional health. From reducing stress to improving cardiovascular health, the benefits of pet ownership are both profound and diverse.

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Navigating Life’s Spectrum: Understanding the behavioural nuances of sharing your life a blind cat

Cats are known for their remarkable sensory abilities, particularly their keen sense of sight. However, some cats face the world with a unique perspective – as blind companions. Sharing your life with a blind cat comes with challenges and rewards, but understanding their behaviour and needs can pave the way for a fulfilling and enriching relationship.

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THE AMERICAN PIT BULL TERRIER

The American Pit Bull Terrier, commonly referred to as the Pit Bull, is a breed of dog that has been the subject of controversy due to its reputation for aggression and violence. Despite this reputation, many advocates of the breed argue that these negative stereotypes are largely based on media sensationalism and the actions of irresponsible owners, rather than inherent traits of the breed itself.

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Understanding the behavioural ramifications of owning a blind dog

Being the guardian of a blind dog can present unique challenges and require very specific adjustments to accommodate their needs. While blindness affects a dog’s physical abilities, it’s essential to recognize that they can adapt remarkably well and continue to lead fulfilling lives. Understanding the behavioural ramifications of caring for a blind dog is crucial for providing appropriate care, ensuring their safety, and promoting their overall well-being.

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Preparing Your Cat for a Vet Visit Using Positive Reinforcement

Visiting the veterinarian is essential to maintaining your cat’s health and well-being. However, many cats find vet visits stressful and overwhelming. Fortunately, with the proper preparation, patience, time and positive reinforcement techniques, you can help your feline friend feel more comfortable and relaxed during these visits.

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Choosing the Best Toys for Your Dog Based on Breed

Choosing appropriate toys for your dog is essential. It’s important to provide this stimulating source of enjoyment to all ages of dogs, not just to puppies. When choosing toys, consider your dog’s breed and personal preferences, as this can play a significant role in finding the most suitable options that interest your individual dog.

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When barking gets too much…

Barking serves as a natural means of communication for dogs, yet excessive or frequent barking poses a common challenge for dog owners and often strains relationships with neighbours. While some level of barking is expected, an excess of it frustrates owners and indicates potential stress or unmet needs in dogs. Understanding the reasons behind a dog’s barking is crucial, as there is always a motive behind it, and it becomes our responsibility to decipher what our dogs require.

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Why we discourage aversive products and techniques

Dogs hold a special place in our hearts; many consider them beloved companions. To fulfil their crucial role as companions in a predominantly human-orientated world, dogs need to be guided. Teaching a dog life-skills is about so much more than training – it equips him with skills that allows him to be a successful dog living in human households. This includes being trained to eliminate outdoors, refraining from excessive barking, and behaving appropriately around visitors and children, among other things.

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When cats roam…

No matter how much our cats love us and rely on the care we provide, some still prefer to spend time outdoors, while others are content observing the world from the comfort of a window seat. Many cats enjoy occasional wandering, whether a short stroll in the garden or a long, late-night prowl. But what drives this urge to explore, and how can we ensure the safety of adventurous cats when they roam?

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You’ve got a new puppy; what now?

You’ve done the research, you’ve chosen the puppy, and you’re about to bring him home. The day you collect your puppy is so exciting, but it can be unsettling for him as he leaves his mother and litter mates, maybe for the first time ever. Here are some things to remember to ensure you’re ready to take care of him in the best possible way.

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Teaching your cat to use her scratching post

Cats are wondrous animals, and most cat guardians would agree that they make the most amazing companions.  Usually our cats are easy housemates, but sometimes, some natural behaviours could cause tension if its not expressed in the correct context.

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Responsible Pet Ownership

Written by COAPE International   What does it mean to be a responsible pet owner?  Most animal welfare organizations use the 5 freedoms as a guideline:  Freedom

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Feeding a diabetic pet

So, your pet has been diagnosed with Diabetes, what now?  Since 2011 the diagnosis of diabetes in pets has increased by 32% in dogs and

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Top Training Tip: Brain Games

Brain games are activities that enrich our dogs’ lives by giving them something to keep them mentally busy, without them having to exert a large amount of energy,

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COAPE International Announcement

In September 2018, COAPE UK announced that in future, the exclusive international rights to present COAPE Approved distance learning courses in English in Companion Animal

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New Baby? No Sweat

You’ve just discovered that you are expecting your first child and are naturally elated. But once things calm down, you start to wonder – what about my pets? How will they cope? How do I ensure they welcome the baby and still get what they need?

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Dog Behaviour

Even though the field of Canine behaviour therapy is rapidly expanding and new information relevant to dogs is coming out daily, it is shocking to find out what is still being taught by “old school” trainers and behaviourists.

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Cat Behaviour

The general belief has been that cats can’t be trained or their behaviour can’t be modified. That is completely untrue!

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The Intricacies of Animal Behaviour and Training

The field of Behaviour is an interesting one. To help our pet owners make educated decisions about which methods they choose to employ, we’re going to put as much information about modern pet behaviour and training out there as we can.

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How to recognize a good puppy school

We often get asked “what constitutes a GOOD puppy school?” by our students and clients. Those questions prompted this article, to make this information available to everyone out there who is thinking about getting a puppy.

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Housetraining your puppy

The first thing everyone wants to know when acquiring a new puppy is how to housetrain him. This article gives great tips on how to best housetrain your new puppy.

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Digging problems

Does your dog dig up your garden? The best way to stop the endless excavations is to create a safe, allowed digging area for him where he can dig to his heart’s content.

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Toys for your dog

Dogs of all ages need toys, not just when they’re puppies. The best form of stimulation for your dog when he’s alone is chew toys.

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Toys for your cat

Cat toys need to be activated – moving – in order to make them fun for felines. Find some interesting ways to keep your cat interested and engaged.

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