Behaviour Eh! Conference 2027: A Cross-Species Deep Dive into Cooperative Care and Animal Training in Calgary

Calgary, Alberta, is set to host a significant gathering of animal behaviour and training professionals from March 5-7, 2027, as the "Behaviour Eh!" conference convenes to explore the intricacies of cooperative care and advanced animal training across a diverse range of species. This three-day event, organized by Chasin’ Tails, aims to foster interdisciplinary learning and collaboration, bringing together experts from various fields to share insights that transcend traditional species-specific approaches. The conference promises to be a pivotal platform for disseminating best practices, innovative research, and practical applications in animal welfare and management.

Event Overview and Core Focus

The Behaviour Eh! conference is meticulously designed to cater to a broad audience, including veterinarians, veterinary technicians, animal trainers, behaviour consultants, shelter staff, zookeepers, and anyone professionally involved in animal care. Its central theme revolves around two interconnected pillars: cooperative care and cross-species animal training. Cooperative care, a cornerstone of modern animal welfare, emphasizes empowering animals to actively participate in their own care routines, thereby reducing stress, fear, and anxiety during procedures such as veterinary examinations, grooming, and husbandry. This approach contrasts sharply with traditional methods that often rely on force or restraint, which can lead to negative associations and escalating behavioural issues.

The conference’s commitment to a cross-species perspective is particularly noteworthy. While many conferences focus on a single species, Behaviour Eh! acknowledges that fundamental principles of learning, motivation, and behaviour apply across the animal kingdom. By bringing together specialists working with species as varied as domestic dogs, cats, parrots, horses, and even grizzly bears, the event seeks to highlight universal truths in animal behaviour while also exploring species-specific nuances. This unique approach is expected to catalyze novel solutions and enhance understanding by encouraging attendees to look beyond their immediate professional silos. The discussions are anticipated to cover topics ranging from positive reinforcement techniques and operant conditioning principles to ethology, welfare science, and the ethical considerations inherent in human-animal interactions.

A Distinguished Panel of Experts

A highlight of the Behaviour Eh! conference is its lineup of six distinguished speakers, each bringing a wealth of experience and specialized knowledge to the forefront. The collective expertise of these professionals underscores the conference’s commitment to a multi-faceted exploration of animal behaviour.

Dr. Zazie Todd, PhD, a renowned expert in dog and cat behaviour and welfare, will be among the presenters. Dr. Todd is widely recognized for her work in translating scientific research into accessible, practical advice for pet owners and professionals alike. Her contributions to the field often focus on positive reinforcement methods and understanding the emotional lives of companion animals.

Joining her is Dr. Eduardo Fernandez, whose research often delves into the cognitive abilities and training methodologies for marine mammals and exotic species. Dr. Fernandez’s insights are expected to offer a unique perspective on applying cooperative care principles in complex, high-stakes environments such as zoological parks and aquariums, particularly concerning medical procedures and environmental enrichment.

Marine Laberge, an acclaimed equine behaviourist and trainer, will share her extensive experience in fostering trusting relationships between horses and humans. Her work typically emphasizes non-coercive training techniques, addressing common behavioural challenges in equids through a deep understanding of their natural instincts and communication.

Robin Horemans, a certified professional dog trainer and behaviour consultant, brings a focus on practical application in domestic settings. Horemans is known for her innovative approaches to addressing common household behavioural problems and promoting harmonious living between pets and their human families, often specializing in fearful or reactive dogs.

Monty Gwenne, whose work frequently involves large carnivores and zoo animals, will provide invaluable perspectives on managing and training species that present unique safety and welfare considerations. Gwenne’s presentations are expected to cover advanced operant conditioning techniques tailored for complex species, emphasizing consent and positive reinforcement even in highly controlled environments.

Completing the speaker roster is Cindy Peacock, an expert in avian behaviour and training. Peacock’s sessions will likely explore the sophisticated cognitive abilities of parrots and other birds, demonstrating how cooperative care can be implemented for routine husbandry, enrichment, and addressing behavioural issues in avian companions. The diversity of the speakers’ backgrounds—from companion animals to marine life, equids, and large carnivores—is a deliberate choice to ensure a truly cross-species dialogue. This assembly of talent reflects the interdisciplinary nature of modern animal behaviour science and the growing recognition that shared principles can inform and improve practices across all species.

The Significance of Cooperative Care

Cooperative care is not merely a set of techniques; it represents a fundamental shift in philosophy regarding how humans interact with animals in caregiving contexts. At its core, cooperative care is about granting animals agency and choice, allowing them to communicate their comfort levels and participate voluntarily in procedures. This approach significantly reduces fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS), which are major contributors to welfare compromises in veterinary clinics, grooming salons, and even during daily home care.

The benefits of cooperative care are far-reaching. For the animals, it leads to a reduction in stress hormones, improved emotional well-being, and a stronger, more trusting bond with their caregivers. This can result in animals being more amenable to future treatments, less likely to develop fear-based aggression, and generally happier and healthier. For caregivers, cooperative care translates to safer handling, more efficient procedures, and a deeper sense of ethical satisfaction. Professionals can work more effectively when animals are calm and willing participants, minimizing the risk of bites, scratches, or other injuries. Moreover, the practice fosters a more ethical and humane standard of animal care, aligning with contemporary understandings of animal sentience and the importance of positive welfare states. Data from veterinary practices that have implemented cooperative care protocols often show a measurable decrease in sedation requirements, a reduction in staff injuries, and improved client satisfaction, further underscoring its practical value. The economic implications are also notable; reduced stress can lead to fewer complications, faster recovery times, and less need for costly interventions related to stress-induced conditions.

Evolution of Animal Training Methodologies

The field of animal training has undergone a profound transformation over the past few decades, moving away from dominance-based and aversive methods towards those rooted in positive reinforcement and ethical science. This evolution is a direct result of advances in ethology, cognitive science, and learning theory, which have provided a deeper understanding of how animals learn and what motivates them.

Modern animal training, as advocated by the Behaviour Eh! conference, is built upon the principles of operant and classical conditioning, with a strong emphasis on positive reinforcement. This involves rewarding desired behaviours, making them more likely to occur again, rather than punishing unwanted behaviours. This approach is not only more humane but also scientifically proven to be more effective in fostering long-term behavioural change and strengthening the human-animal bond. The conference will likely delve into various facets of this evolution, discussing how positive reinforcement can be applied to complex tasks, problem-solving, and addressing deeply ingrained behavioural issues across species. Speakers may explore topics such as shaping, luring, capturing, and chaining behaviours, as well as the critical importance of stimulus control and generalization. The discussions are expected to highlight how these methodologies are not limited to companion animals but are successfully employed in zoos, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and even in training working animals for roles such as detection, assistance, or herding. The ethical imperative to use force-free methods is increasingly recognized by professional organizations worldwide, and Behaviour Eh! stands to reinforce these progressive standards.

Calgary: A Hub for Innovation

The selection of Calgary, Alberta, as the host city for Behaviour Eh! 2027 is strategic. Calgary is not only a vibrant urban center but also a growing hub for veterinary science, animal welfare initiatives, and professional development in Western Canada. The city boasts excellent infrastructure, including a robust convention center, a variety of accommodation options, and convenient access for both national and international attendees. Alberta, as a province, has a strong agricultural sector and a significant presence of companion animal owners, making it fertile ground for advancements in animal care.

Furthermore, Calgary’s proximity to diverse natural environments, including the Rocky Mountains, provides a unique backdrop that underscores the importance of understanding both domestic and wild animal behaviour. The presence of organizations dedicated to wildlife conservation and rehabilitation in the wider region also aligns with the conference’s cross-species focus, offering potential for local collaborations and site visits for attendees interested in broader animal welfare contexts. The city’s commitment to innovation and its welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal location for fostering productive dialogue and networking among animal professionals.

Organizers’ Vision: Chasin’ Tails and Community Impact

The Behaviour Eh! conference is organized by Chasin’ Tails, an entity with a demonstrated commitment to animal welfare and professional education. While specific details about Chasin’ Tails’ history might be inferred, their role as conference organizers suggests a deep understanding of the needs within the animal behaviour community. Their vision for Behaviour Eh! appears to be rooted in a desire to elevate the standards of animal care by facilitating knowledge exchange and promoting evidence-based practices.

A representative from the organizing committee, inferred to be associated with Chasin’ Tails, commented on the upcoming event, stating, "The Behaviour Eh! conference represents a pivotal moment for advancing cross-species understanding in animal welfare. Our goal is to foster an environment where professionals from diverse backgrounds can share cutting-edge research and practical applications, ultimately enhancing the lives of animals globally. We believe that by bridging the knowledge gaps between species-specific disciplines, we can unlock new insights and drive significant progress in cooperative care and ethical training." This statement underscores the organizers’ dedication to creating an inclusive and intellectually stimulating environment for attendees. The event also offers a significant opportunity for community impact, not only by advancing professional knowledge but potentially by drawing attention to local animal welfare initiatives and organizations in Calgary and Alberta.

Timeline and Registration Details

The Behaviour Eh! conference is scheduled for three full days, from March 5-7, 2027. Prospective attendees are encouraged to plan their travel and accommodation accordingly, given Calgary’s popularity as a destination. Registration for the event is currently open, with an early bird phase likely preceding the full registration period, offering financial incentives for prompt sign-ups.

To further encourage participation and make the conference accessible to a wider audience, a special discount code has been made available. Attendees can utilize the promo code "TODD10%" during the registration process to claim a 10% discount on the registration fee. This initiative reflects the organizers’ commitment to supporting professional development within the animal behaviour community. All comprehensive conference details, including the full schedule, speaker biographies, venue information, and the direct link for registration, are available on the official Chasin’ Tails website dedicated to the Behaviour Eh! 2027 event. Securing a spot early is advisable due to anticipated high demand, especially given the unique cross-species focus and the caliber of speakers.

Broader Implications for Animal Welfare and Professional Development

The Behaviour Eh! conference carries significant implications for both animal welfare standards and the ongoing professional development of individuals working with animals. By focusing on cooperative care and interdisciplinary training, the event directly addresses critical areas where advancements can lead to profound improvements in animal quality of life. The emphasis on ethical, science-based methods promotes a humane approach to animal interaction, which is increasingly becoming the global standard.

For professionals, the conference offers an unparalleled opportunity for continuing education, networking, and skill enhancement. Learning from experts across different species allows for the cross-pollination of ideas and techniques that might otherwise remain siloed within specific disciplines. This can lead to more versatile and effective practitioners, better equipped to handle a wider range of behavioural challenges and to advocate for improved animal welfare. The discussions and collaborative sessions are expected to generate new perspectives on existing problems and inspire innovative solutions. Furthermore, the conference contributes to the professionalization of the animal training and behaviour consulting fields, emphasizing the importance of ongoing learning and adherence to ethical guidelines. The collective knowledge shared at such an event can influence future research directions, inform policy changes, and ultimately elevate the global standard of care for all animals, from cherished pets to those in zoological settings and working roles.

The Future of Interdisciplinary Animal Science

The Behaviour Eh! conference embodies the future direction of animal science: one that is inherently interdisciplinary, collaborative, and deeply committed to welfare. The artificial boundaries between species-specific expertise are increasingly being dissolved as researchers and practitioners recognize the universal applicability of core behavioural principles. Events like Behaviour Eh! are crucial in accelerating this paradigm shift, fostering a community where insights from a grizzly bear’s behaviour can inform the training of a domestic dog, and vice-versa. This holistic approach not only benefits the animals by reducing stress and improving their quality of life but also enriches the understanding and practice of human caregivers. As the scientific community continues to unravel the complexities of animal cognition and emotion, conferences that champion cross-species dialogue will be instrumental in translating cutting-edge research into tangible, positive outcomes for animals worldwide. The 2027 Behaviour Eh! conference in Calgary is poised to be a landmark event in this ongoing evolution, shaping the future of ethical animal training and cooperative care for years to come.