APBC page for vets & VNs

30/08/2026

Risë VanFleet joins us on 8th December! Get this in your diary and book your space now: https://bit.ly/4iwB6qv

29/08/2026

Congratulations to Helen Motteram who has been successfully assessed on her practical skills to become a Full APBC member and ABTC-CAB!

Helen adds, "As someone who has hearing and speech issues I was at first reluctant to book the assessment. It seems my confidence got the better of me, for so long! However for those holding back, please just book it. They took my issues into account with a non judgemental and professional approach. At times I stumbled on my words and they were extremely patient and understanding.

The process is rigorous, which is something I'm glad about. They tested both my practical and theoretical knowledge and the information required really brought out my geeky side once again.

I'm honestly over the moon and delighted about the next steps. It really is a dream come true!"

Find out more about the APBC's assessment process here: https://bit.ly/4bF6fUD

28/08/2026

Did you miss this webinar with Janet Marlow? We got some great feedback and you can watch the session NOW!

This presentation explores how sound environments and hearing health shape emotional regulation and behavioural outcomes in dogs and cats. Participants will gain insight into how auditory awareness can reveal hidden stressors, inform behaviorual assessment, and support welfare-centered interventions.

https://bit.ly/46rBoru

27/08/2026

Nykita Lekha joins the APBC as an Associate Clinical Animal Behaviourist (CAB) - WELCOME!

There are so many perks to joining us as a practising member including exclusive discounts on your insurance for business AND your pets! Find out about joining us here: https://bit.ly/4qE009U

25/08/2026

We're sending our warmest welcome to Debbie Martin who joins the APBC as an Associate CAB member.

Find out more about the ABTC roles we represent and which (ABT or CAB) is right for YOU here: https://bit.ly/4zBQUhN

21/08/2026

Earlier this year we applied to Companies House to convert the APBC from a Limited Company to a Community Interest Company (CIC).

We are delighted to announce that this has been approved, and we will now be known as: The Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors CIC, or in short: APBC CIC.

As a CIC we declare that our activities provide benefit to our community which includes:

a. As a professional member organisation, we provide a support network to Animal Behaviour Technicians and Clinical Animal Behaviourists and to those currently studying in the field of applied animal behaviour and human-animal interactions.

b. Animal owners and caretakers who are in charge of animal welfare and wellbeing, regardless of the reason why that animal is kept. E.g. pet owners, animal rescue organisations, pet traders, zoos, laboratories, charitable and other providers of animal assisted services, veterinary practices and other co-professionals such as animal groomers, physiotherapists, hydrotherapists and osteopaths.

c. Advisory services to the legal profession, NGOs and government advisory committees as related to animal welfare and wellbeing and human-animal interactions and thus human welfare and wellbeing.

All the above is important and the CIC status clearly announces what we are and what we do, all for the greater good.

19/08/2026

APBC Associate CAB Member - Laura Blackledge Smith is featured in Dogs Today Magazine: Meet the animal behaviour expert helping families with children navigate the ‘Wild West’ of canine advice

A highly qualified animal behaviourist is offering expert guidance to dog owners through Pet Remedy’s Ask The Professional service.

18/08/2026

Welcome to the APBC Louise George! Louise joins us as an Associate CAB member.

Associate membership is open to those who have had their Knowledge and Understanding (theoretical understanding) assessed against the ABTC Standards for ABT or CAB.

This can be demonstrated via the ABTC APEL process or by completing an ABTC recognised course to the relevant role standard.

Associate members are able to conduct behaviour consultations but have not yet achieved the requisite experience to become Full members.

https://bit.ly/4xJmc4F

17/08/2026

As Chair of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors, I am writing to express our sadness at hearing of the sudden and untimely passing of Sally Jones.

Sally was a long-time supporter of the APBC and its aims of improving standards of education and skills in our field for the betterment of animal and human welfare. Sally was dedicated to this ethos and carried it forward in her work with clients, contributing practical workshops for APBC members, her teaching at the University of Exeter, international seminars and her work with so many people in the agility world, including the Italian National Agility Squad. Fair to say she was regarded as a “powerhouse in the agility world and incredible coach and judge to so many”.

On a personal note, I first met Sally when she enrolled on the University ofSouthampton course for which I was the Programme Director. Her thirst for learning and its application was apparent from the start, as was her compassion for people and skill at communication. It is easy to understand why she was renowned for her expertise and ability to bring “so much humour and fun to every situation.”

She wrote under the pen name of Perennial Starter in Agility Net magazine for many years. A carefully chosen pen name and one to remember her by. After all it applies to each of us as, whatever we do, we will always be a Perennial Starter with more to learn.

Our condolences to Sally’s family and friends.
Anne McBride