Georgia Hunter Safety Practice Exam

What must trainers do if an animal avoids a specific conditioned behavior?

1. Continue asking for the behavior

2. Terminate the session

3. Call a senior trainer

4. Switch to a different animal

The correct answer is: Terminate the session

If an animal avoids a specific conditioned behavior, terminating the session is an appropriate response. This approach allows the trainer to prevent any negative experiences or stress for the animal, which could arise from forcing the issue. Additionally, ending the session provides the opportunity for the trainer to reassess the training methods being used and to consider if adjustments in the approach are needed. It also allows the animal a chance to relax and prevents overwhelming it, which can help maintain a positive learning environment. In contrast, continuing to ask for the behavior may exacerbate confusion or anxiety for the animal. Calling a senior trainer might not be necessary at this moment and could delay understanding how to adjust the training effectively. Switching to a different animal does not address the specific issue at hand and might lead to neglecting the animal that needs assistance in mastering the behavior.