Working With Stress and Trauma IMDT Course Presented by Head of Behaviour for the IMDTB David Brice

​The impact of chronic stress and trauma on dogs' mental and physical health is significant. Just like humans, each dog is unique and will respond differently to traumatic events, with varying levels of resilience. Understanding this is key, especially when considering how stress can make dogs more vulnerable to trauma. This knowledge helps trainers and behaviorists offer better guidance and work with both dog owners and their pets compassionately.

The IMDT webinar explores how stress and anxiety affect trauma responses, discussing topics like displacement behavior from the dog's perspective, and their perception of safety. It also delves into the causes of trauma, including veterinary issues and emotional well-being, using a real-life case study to highlight the individual nature of trauma.

The webinar covers several key topics, including:

The definition of stress and trauma
Chronic stress and anxiety
The connection between emotions, trauma, and behavior (with a focus on fear and displacement)
How dogs perceive safety
A case study (Destiny)
Emotional well-being
The recovery process and the understanding that it may not be a straightforward path.