Questions answered by Anna Pankowska, a dog behaviorist providing consultations through behaviorist.online service.

What specific qualifications, certificates, or courses does the consultant have?

I conduct all consultations personally. In 2010, I earned my certification from COAPE (Centre of Aplied Pet Ethology - a British organization for training animal behaviorists). Since then, I have participated in numerous training sessions and courses to stay at the forefront of the field. My key certificates and proof of completion are published on behaviorist.online website for full transparency.

What is your experience working with dogs? How many years have you been practicing?

I have been working professionally with dogs and their owners since 2012, and this is my sole full-time occupation. This translates to many years of solid, hands-on experience. My work includes conducting behavioral consultations, dog training classes, and puppy classes, as well as preparing dogs for dogshows. I also lead workshops, seminars, and canine education classes for children.

What is your experience with online consultations?

I have been conducting online consultations since 2018 - long before remote services became a popular trend. These years of experience have taught me exactly which issues can be solved remotely and how to structure these sessions to effectively resolve the cases we discuss.

Do you specialize in specific problems (e.g., aggression, separation anxiety, hyperactivity)?

In my daily work, I deal with a wide range of behavioral issues. However, for online consultations, I focus primarily on separation anxiety (challenges related to a dog being left alone at home), pre-purchase consultations for choosing the right breed, preparing the household for a new dog, and puppy guidance to ensure they grow up to be balanced companions. I also specialize in preparing dogs for the arrival of a new baby in the home.

Why choose an online consultation over an in-person meeting?

Not everyone has an access to a professional, experienced behaviorist in their local area - online connection bridges that gap. It also offers significant time savings and convenience; you don’t need to commute, and it is much easier to find a time slot that fits your schedule. Additionally, the cost of an online consultation is lower than an in-person visit.

How will you assess my dog’s behavior if you don’t see them "in action" (e.g., pulling on the leash, attacking other dogs, or barking when alone)?

It depends entirely on the problem reported. If the case qualifies for online consultation, I often ask for a few video recordings demonstrating the challenging behavior. These recordings, combined with a detailed interview and my experience in solving similar issues, allow me to propose an effective therapy plan. If the situation requires it, I can also propose a "live" online walk, where I observe the dog via video call while you walk them, giving you real-time coaching on how to work with your dog.

Can all problems be solved remotely? What if my problem is too serious for an online consult?

The first step is filling out the inquiry form and describing the problem. This comes with no obligation to pay. Based on the information provided, I analyze whether the specific behavior or question is suitable for an online format. You only decide to book the service after this assessment. Most behavioral issues can be addressed online, but if an in-person meeting would be a better solution for your specific case, I will inform you immediately and advise against remote work.

Does the dog need to be on camera during the entire consultation? My dog won’t sit still for 60 minutes.

Absolutely not. The consultation is not a training session; it is a conversation with the dog's guardian(s). The dog can be sleeping or playing nearby. If we need to practice a specific task, we will call the dog over for just a few minutes.

Does filling out the form obligate me to pay?

No. After you submit the form, I will analyze your inquiry to see if online help is feasible. If necessary, I may ask for additional materials, such as a video of a specific situation. If online assistance is possible, I will propose consultation dates. Only then do you decide whether to proceed with payment and the service.

What is the exact cost of the first consultation, and what does it include?

The cost is listed clearly on behaviorist.online - there are no hidden fees. The consultation is a phone or video call lasting about an hour, during which we discuss the problem, and you receive a personalized, specific action plan or all the information you need. Don't worry - if we go slightly over the scheduled time, there are no extra costs.

How quickly will the consultation take place after payment? What does the schedule look like?

Most often, we set the date before you even pay, as part of the problem analysis process. I always try to adapt to your calendar and your time zone, offering both morning and evening slots. We can usually find a mutual time within the next 2-3 days.

What happens if I pay, but we can't schedule a time or technical issues prevent the consultation? Will I get a refund?

Yes, in such cases, you will receive a full refund of the amount paid.

Do you offer packages? What if I need more than one online meeting?

Some problems require follow-up consultations because working on behavior is a process. That is why you receive a discount on subsequent consultations, in accordance with the price list on behaviorist.online.

How will we connect? Do I need to install special software?

We determine the connection method individually based on your preferences. Most often, we use WhatsApp or Messenger. If you prefer not to use video, a standard phone call is also sufficient.

Are online consultations recorded or used for other purposes?

No, consultations are never recorded. All information shared during the conversation is used solely to solve your problem and is never shared with anyone. Similarly, any video recordings you send are not used for any purpose other than the consultation itself.

Is the data I provide in the form used for marketing purposes?

No. The data from the form is used strictly for one-time contact regarding the online consultation service you are inquiring about. Whether you decide to use the service or not, your data is not processed further, nor is it ever shared with third parties.

Is the consultation conducted by a real human, or is AI used?

I conduct all assessments and consultations personally, based on my years of professional experience. Behaviorist.online allows you to get advice from a professional behaviorist through a direct online conversation. This is not a consultation with Artificial Intelligence.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.