Mental Illness in Dogs - Linda Scroggins

Mental Illness in Dogs: A Guide for Trainers is directed to both new and experienced dog trainers and behavior consultants. The idea that dogs can be afflicted with mental illness is fairly new but growing. Author, Linda Scroggins had years of experience working with dogs with behavior issues when a little yellow dog named Tom entered her life and home. Living with a dog who had been diagnosed with mental illness was her wakeup call to the challenges families sharing their lives with these dogs face each day. The author's journey and eventual loss was the catalyst to developing a plan for all dog trainers who may come into contact with these special dogs.

This book reviews the current methods for approaching treatment for these dogs by examining the humane hierarchies currently provided by professional organizations. The book highlights those dogs whose needs may cause them to fall outside the hierarchy and how proceeding with current behavior modification methods may harm dogs or worsen their illness. Mental Illness in Dogs: A Guide for Trainers suggests a new approach that focuses on a collaborative process between the dog trainer and other professionals caring for the dog.

Author_Bio: Linda Scroggins, RN, MSN, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, is a certified, professional, canine behavior consultant and dog trainer with over 10 years of experience. Linda’s training career began as a volunteer at a large open intake animal shelter. At the shelter, she was an integral part of developing a program to train shelter dogs in order to improve their opportunity for adoption.

Linda holds a Master’s Degree in pediatric nursing and continues to hold a license as a registered nurse. She feels the scientific knowledge of growth and development and behavior in children supports and enriches her study of behavior in dogs. Linda’s behavior consultation practice focuses on working with dogs with fear and anxiety and aggression issues. She has worked with hundreds of dogs. She believes in the importance of improving the quality of life for both dogs and the people with whom they live. 

When not working with dogs Linda enjoys spending time with her wonderful grandchildren. She enjoys hiking with her Great Dane, Bayou and Golden Retriever, Rocket and being endlessly entertained by her three cats; Toodles, Earl Gray and Cash.

Keywords: Dog, Trainer, Guide, Behavior, Mental, Illness, Veterinary, Specialist, Fear, Aggression