As a Registered Veterinary Nurse and Full Member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors, I follow best practice and the APBC Code of Conduct when supporting dogs with behavioural issues.
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Before any behaviour consultation, I contact the client's Veterinary Surgeon to request a clinical history and referral form. After each consultation I provide a summary report so you are kept informed.
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My behaviour services are often covered by pet insurance. Clients should check with their provider to confirm.
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I offer in-person sessions across Perthshire, Dundee, Fife and Stirling and online consultations. My goal is to help owners understand, manage and improve their dog's behaviour so they can enjoy life together.
"I've always enjoyed working with Karen - I first met her many years ago when attending classes with my dog which were always fantastic! In more recent years I've been delighted to be able to refer clients to her as a Clinical Animal Behaviourist, particularly as having worked with her with my own dogs, I know she is kind, supportive, and lovely to work with, as well as being an excellent trainer and behaviourist.
She's communicative and keeps us updated on the pet's progress and behavioural treatment plan, which is helpful particularly when there may be medical factors at play as well, as it's important as a vet that we keep in mind the physical health of the pet and its impact on their mental health and behaviour."
Ben MRCVS
Your clients & patients deserve the best
The dog training and behaviour industry is currently unregulated which means anyone can call themselves a trainer or behaviourist, regardless of their experience or education.
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This concern was highlighted in the Veterinary Times article 'Behavioural referrals - who to choose' (click here to view).​
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I have spent many years working towards the most recognised and respected qualifications in the field, including a Diploma in Clinical Animal Behaviour from The Royal (DICK) School of Veterinary Studies. This helps ensure that the advice I give is current, evidence based and aligned with best practice.
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Because your clients and patients deserve nothing less.​
Education, Qualifications & Experience
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Full member of Association of Pet Behaviour Consellors
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Registered Clinical Animal Behaviourist with the Animal Behaviour & Training Council
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Registered Animal Training Instructor with the Animal Behaviour & Training Council
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Member of Association of Pet Dog Trainers
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Registered Veterinary Nurse
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PGDip in Clinical Animal Behaviour from the University of Edinburgh
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BSc Honours in Veterinary Nursing
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Karen Pryor Academy - Certified Training Partner
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Faculty Advisor at the Victoria Stilwell Academy
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Certified Separation Anxiety Pro Behaviour Consultant
Karen Bachell
MAPDT 01150
How I can help
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I start by listening to each client's concerns, questions and goals.
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From there, I assess what is driving the unwanted behaviour. Understanding a dog's underlying emotional state and motivations is key to meaningful, lasting change.
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I'll guide each client in managing their dog's behaviour in a way that reduces stress, for both dog and owner, and helps prevent the repetition of unwanted behaviours.
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Together we put a personalised behaviour modification plan in place. This works to change how the dog feels about specific triggers which in turn changes how they respond.
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All plans are tailor make with the emotional welfare of both the dog and owner front and centre.
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I use only evidence based, kind and effective methods including positive reinforcement, counter-conditioning and desensitisation. Methods that rely on pain, fear or intimidation will never be used.
How to refer
If you are a Veterinary Surgeon and wish to refer a behavioural case please -
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Complete my online referral form by clicking below or you can download the form by clicking here.
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Upload a full clinical history (a file upload field is available in the form). This allows me to make informed decisions regarding behavioural modification plans, and how any medical condition or medication may affect your patient's behaviour.
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Ask your client to get in touch with me directly.
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I will be in touch to request a referral form to be completed and a copy of the clinical history.
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If you have any questions please get in touch.