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330 Box C1 Training Animals in a Group Setting
VetBooks.ir (a)
(b)
Figure C1.4 The distance between animals which are being trained together can impact the training session;
here a group of grey seals are stationed and trained with a larger space between animals (a), but animals can
also be reinforced for being stationed and trained when in close proximity to one another (b). Source: Kirstin
Anderson‐Hansen.
other animal gets attention from the trainer. reduce the risk of the other individuals
This calm and patient behaviour needs to be becoming frustrated.
reinforced and maintained.
A common basic behaviour that most
animals are initially trained to do is a ‘hold’ Anthropomorphism
behaviour. By asking the other animals to
do a ‘hold’, for example, the animals that Anthropomorphism can contribute to poor
are expected to wait are given something group training practices. For example, animals
to do. This will allow the trainer to work could get frustrated or even aggressive if a
with one individual for a short period and trainer make assumptions of what other
