Four Paws Animal Behavior

Clients begin with a comprehensive in-home evaluation to assess the pet’s history, environment, and behavior goals. Based on this, a customized behavior modification plan is created using positive reinforcement techniques. Follow-up support is provided via email or phone at no extra cost, and additional in-home sessions are scheduled as needed to reinforce progress. Programs are tailored to resolve specific issues and are not structured as fixed packages.

Pricing Summary

Initial evaluation and consultation sessions are a flat fee lasting 2 hours or more, including travel time. Fees are not charged by the hour but depend on the session and travel. Follow-up email and phone support are free; additional in-home training sessions incur extra fees. Exact pricing requires direct inquiry via email or phone.

Four Paws Animal Behavior is a dog training and behavior modification service run by Ken McCort, an Animal Behavior Consultant with over 35 years of experience since 1987. Ken specializes in addressing serious behavior concerns in dogs, cats, and birds through individualized, in-home consultations. He uses science-based, positive reinforcement methods grounded in comparative psychology, ethology, and neurobiology, avoiding aversive techniques like intimidation or dominance-based approaches. Ken’s methodology includes marker signals (like clickers), lure-and-reward, and differential reinforcement of alternative behaviors. He works with dogs of all ages and sizes, focusing on behavior modification for issues like reactivity, separation anxiety, and resource guarding. Ken and his veterinarian wife Marilyn live with multiple adopted animals, giving him firsthand experience with multi-pet households. He does not offer group classes, ensuring personalized attention for each client’s unique situation.

In addition to private in-home training, Ken provides seminars and workshops worldwide on topics like canine cognition and the human-animal bond. He has consulted with exotic animals at Wolf Park and other facilities, training over 40 species, which reflects his deep expertise in animal behavior. His services are often recommended by veterinarians and past clients, emphasizing trust and proven results.

Accomplishments

Ken McCort has been practicing animal behavior consulting since 1987 and has worked as a consultant and trainer with Wolf Park in Indiana since the 1990s. He has trained over 40 different species, including wolves, lions, giraffes, and a manatee, in zoos, research, and rehab facilities. He regularly gives seminars and workshops worldwide on animal behavior and cognition.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients begin by scheduling an in-home evaluation and consultation session, which lasts two hours or more. During this session, Ken gathers the pet’s history, observes behavior in the home environment, and discusses the owner’s goals. A customized behavior modification plan is then developed and introduced during this first visit.