Changing Plans

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With the right training plan, behavior multiplies. If change isn't happening quickly, you need to change something about your plan.

I try to keep this idea from behavior analyst Mary Hunter in mind while I work with Otto the Great Horned Owl. We make progress, then get stuck in a rut. When I notice that change isn't happening, I start brainstorming how I can change our approach. 

Our current goal is for Otto to walk into his crate so I can move him out of the mew. He would eagerly enter the crate and let me close the door. But then we got stuck when I tried to move the crate. He stopped going in it at all. What could I change? 

What if I elevated the crate on two bricks? He might feel safer slightly off the ground. He might feel the crate wobble a bit and get used to little bits of movement. I might be able to lift the crate more smoothly. 

Will we see behavior multiplying with this plan? We'll see!

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