The treatment of behaviour problems in cats, dogs, horses and other companion animals is a highly specialised field that requires qualified professional help. The APBC represents a network of behaviour counsellors that have achieved the highest proven academic and practical standards available in the field of companion animal behavioural therapy. APBC members abide by a strict code of conduct and continually develop their professional knowledge in the light of new research so that clients and the veterinary surgeons that refer them can be assured they receive the latest expert advice at a reasonable cost. The APBC is also proud of its role as an education provider and continues to promote the practice of pet behaviour therapy to improve the welfare of all companion animals.
The aims of the APBC are:
1. To maintain and ensure the highest professional standards of the practice of companion animal behaviour therapy so that clients can be assured of effective, humane and appropriate advice at a reasonable cost.
2. To establish and promote the practice of companion animal behaviour therapy as a recognised profession.
3. To act as a forum for the exchange of ideas and information about companion animal behaviour and offer advice and information to all interested parties in order to foster a greater understanding of companion animal behaviour, consequently improving their welfare.
4. To provide support for those currently studying companion animal behaviour.
5. To be recognised as the official body that represents practising companion animal behaviour counsellors.
The APBC promotes Full Members as those who have achieved the appropriate standards in order to provide assurance to the veterinary profession wishing to refer cases and to the pet owning public. It offers a network of specialist counsellors throughout the UK and internationally.
In light of the growing number of academic courses in the field of companion animal behaviour and other biological sciences, coupled with the ever-increasing establishment of pet behaviour counselling as a profession, the Association offers four levels of membership, Student, Provisional, Academic and Full. Student and Provisional membership levels complement progression towards certification as a clinical animal behaviourist (CCAB), so that the APBC can support individuals undertaking this career path. The APBC has also been a key partner in the initiation and development of both the Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour (ASAB) certification scheme (CCAB) and the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC), of which it is a founder member.
PO BOX 46
Worcester
WR8 9YS
UK
Telephone +44 (0) 1386 751151
Fax +44 (0) 1386 750743