Animal Behavior College: A Comprehensive Review of Programs and Success Stories

Animal Behavior College (ABC) has emerged as a leading vocational school in North America, offering a variety of animal career training programs. With over 37,000 graduates, ABC has solidified its position as a prominent institution for individuals passionate about working with animals. This article delves into the various programs offered by ABC, student experiences, and success stories of graduates.

Introduction to Animal Behavior College

Founded in 1998 by Steve Appelbaum, owner of Animal Behavior & Training Associates (ABTA), Animal Behavior College was established to address the growing need for qualified animal trainers. Recognizing the limitations of existing training options, ABC pioneered a blended learning approach that combines online coursework with hands-on experience. This innovative model has made ABC a popular choice for aspiring animal professionals.

A Variety of Animal Career Training Programs

Animal Behavior College offers a diverse range of programs designed to cater to various interests within the animal care field. These programs include:

Dog Training: The Dog Obedience training course is one of the most popular programs at ABC. It equips students with the knowledge and skills to train dogs effectively using positive reinforcement techniques.
Veterinary Assisting: This program provides students with a foundation in veterinary medicine, preparing them for entry-level positions in animal hospitals and clinics.
Dog Grooming: The dog grooming course focuses on gentle grooming techniques that prioritize the pet's comfort and well-being. A 30+ piece toolkit is included with this program.
Cat Training: Addressing the increasing demand for cat trainers, this program teaches positive methods for addressing behavioral challenges and strengthening the bond between cats and their owners.
Aquarium Maintenance: This program enables students to turn their passion for fishkeeping into a career by providing them with the skills to maintain aquariums and marine habitats.
Zookeeper Assisting: For those dreaming of working in a zoo, this program offers a pathway to animal care, conservation, and wildlife rehabilitation.
Service Dog Training: Designed for individuals passionate about helping people and pups, this program equips students with the skills to train service dogs for individuals with disabilities.

The ABC Learning Experience

Animal Behavior College distinguishes itself through its unique approach to animal career education. The curriculum combines comprehensive online coursework with practical, hands-on experience.

Online Coursework

ABC's online platform provides students with the flexibility to study at their own pace and from the convenience of their homes. The courses cover a wide range of topics, including animal behavior, training techniques, and business management. Students also receive the materials needed to work with animals.

Externship Program

A cornerstone of the ABC experience is the externship program, which provides students with real-world experience in their chosen field. Students are paired with local mentors who provide guidance and supervision as they work with animals in a variety of settings.

Miraena Rocereto Ridley, a graduate of the Dog Obedience training course, found the externship process invaluable. She gained experience working with real clients and made valuable connections in the industry. Her externship at a shelter was bittersweet, as she loved helping the dogs but was saddened to see so many waiting for adoption.

Bonnie Hess, owner of Faithful Companion Dog Training, found Stage 9 of the ABC dog trainer course - Business Building - essential to the success of her business. It provided her with the tools to obtain business insurance and market her dog training business effectively.

Hands-on Training

ABC emphasizes the importance of hands-on training to reinforce the concepts learned in the online coursework. Students have the opportunity to practice their skills with their own pets or with animals at local shelters or training facilities.

Sandy Stokes, a Labrador breeder, found that practicing the positive reinforcement techniques she learned at ABC with her own dogs was her favorite part of the dog trainer course. She also apprenticed under a Mentor Trainer, Sandy Kowalski, who taught her the importance of explaining the theory behind the instruction to students.

Success Stories of ABC Graduates

Animal Behavior College boasts a large number of successful graduates who have made a positive impact in the animal care field. Here are a few inspiring stories:

Suzy: A former ABC student, Suzy is the Founder and Executive Director of Everybody’s Doggy, a nonprofit service dog training organization. She chose ABC to become a Certified Service Dog Trainer because of their exceptional reputation and comprehensive curriculum. Her experience at ABC enhanced her knowledge and expanded her sense of purpose in helping individuals train their dogs to mitigate their disabilities.
Jaime: He has used his training with ABC to create a wonderful career with animals. He is currently an American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen (AKC CGC) Test Evaluator and is a professional dog trainer.
Bonnie Hess: The proud owner of Faithful Companion Dog Training, Bonnie attributes the success of her business to the Business Building stage of the ABC dog trainer course.
Sandy Stokes: A Labrador breeder, Sandy has expanded her business to include canine obedience training and problem-solving, thanks to her ABC education. The knowledge she gained as an ABC student allows her to offer better training and advice to her clients.

Student Reviews and Testimonials

Many students have praised Animal Behavior College for its comprehensive curriculum, flexible learning options, and supportive staff.

Miraena Rocereto Ridley's experience with ABC was nothing she expected. She got to do real work with real clients through the externship process and made so many connections! The materials provided to learn how to train and even the tools were exceptional.

One student shared that they were skeptical at first but are so grateful they took the veterinary assistant program. They started their course beginning of January 2019 & by October 2019 they were working in an animal hospital! This school got them started on working with animals!

Another student mentioned that the enrollment was easy and everyone was super friendly! It was always so easy to get ahold of someone if they needed help and the best part was the externship!

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Another student stated that all of the staff is so helpful, they are willing to answer every question you have and guide you in the best way possible. This has been such a great opportunity for them and career path!

One student had a great experience with ABC. When ever they had any questions they were answered quickly. They worked with them whenever life got in the way and that they would definitely consider doing their dog training program with them.

Another student was able to continue studying despite having 2 surgeries & a heavy workload. ABC worked with them with all their issues and supported them until completion. They are very proud to have their ABC diploma!!!

Accreditation and Recognition

Animal Behavior College has gained recognition within the animal care industry for its commitment to quality education and training. The college has established partnerships with major pet retailers such as Petco Animal Supplies and Petcetera Warehouse chain, providing students with valuable opportunities for employment and networking.

Addressing Common Misconceptions

Some may believe that online animal training programs are not as effective as traditional classroom-based programs. However, ABC's blended learning approach, which combines online coursework with hands-on experience, provides students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in their chosen field.

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