In this deeply informative conversation, Ryan Cartlidge is joined by Dot Baisly—the Executive Director for the International Association of Animal Behaviour Consultants (IAABC). With an extensive background in shelter behavior, veterinary medicine, and private consulting, Dot brings a wealth of experience to the table, having previously led behavior programs at major organizations like the North East Animal Shelter and the Animal Rescue League of Boston. Dot holds a Master's Degree in Animal Behaviour from Tufts University and is a Certified Dog Behaviour Consultant, Certified Cat Behaviour Consultant, and Certified Shelter Behaviour Specialist.
Together, Ryan and Dot dive into the topic of the Joint Standards of Practice (JSOP), a collaborative initiative aimed at creating a standardized, ethical framework for behavior professionals in an industry that remains largely unregulated. Dot provides much-needed clarity on the structure of the JSOP coalition—explaining the roles of the Steering Committee versus the signatory organizations—and details the massive effort involved in updating the document. She shares the story of how the JSOP recently evolved from a brief, Lima-based guideline into a comprehensive document that now incorporates the five domains of animal welfare and explicitly addresses procedure selection.
The conversation highlights why these standards are essential for the future of the industry, moving beyond simple "effectiveness" to ensure that the intervention itself supports the mental and physical well-being of the animal. They discuss the importance of moving toward a recognized profession where practitioners are held accountable, and how collaboration—rather than competition—among certifying and educational bodies is the key to creating a unified, ethical voice. Ryan also announces that the Animal Training Academy has officially become a signatory of the JSOP, reflecting a shared mission to empower professionals with high standards of care.
Throughout this episode, we discuss:
✅ The role of the IAABC as a global trade organization and independent certifying body
✅ Defining the Joint Standards of Practice (JSOP) and why it serves as the minimum standard of care
✅ The structure of the JSOP coalition, including the Steering Committee and signatory organizations
✅ The transition from a Lima-based framework to a more comprehensive, science-backed standard
✅ Why self-regulation is a vital step toward professional legitimacy and ethical behavior change
✅ The difference between "assent" and "consent" in supporting learner well-being
✅ How professional standards protect both the animal and the practitioner from burnout
✅ The importance of industry-wide collaboration in raising the bar for animal welfare
Whether you are a seasoned consultant or a professional just starting your career, this episode provides a clear roadmap for understanding the ethical foundations of our industry and why participating in standardized, collaborative frameworks is a "no-brainer" for those committed to the highest level of animal care.
JSOP Signatories
1) Steering committee
APDT
IAABC
IAABC Foundation
Karen Pryor Academy (KPA)
2) Existing signatories
Victoria Stilwell Inc. (VSI)
Assistance Dogs International (ADI)
Grisha Stewart Academy
Science Matters Academy
Understand Horses
3) Newest signatories
Peaceable Paws
Malena DeMartini
Atlas Assistance Dogs
Carefree Companion
Academy of Pet Careers
Animal Training Academy
Canine Behavior College
Good Dog Academy
Phenix Advocacy Center for R+ Canine Professionals
Links
JSOP: https://iaabc.org/standards-of-practice
Email director@iaabc.org
