09/12/2025
Many trauma-informed animal-assisted service providers avoid the word “obedience” when talking about training — and there’s a good reason.
“Obedience” implies power, control, and compliance. But healing work with animals is built on choice, trust, and partnership.
When we shift the language, we shift the relationship: from demanding a behaviour to inviting connection.
By focusing on communication, emotional safety, and mutual respect, we support both the human and the animal in showing up as regulated, empowered partners in the work. It’s not about control — it’s about collaboration.
