Students in WMU’s Applied Animal Behavior Practicum (AABP) work hands-on with dogs in local animal shelters. Using ethical, science-based behavior training rooted in operant conditioning, students teach basic skills, tricks, and help reduce behaviors that may hinder adoption. The goal? To give every dog a better chance at finding a loving, lifelong home.
Our Mission
At AABP, we believe in improving the lives of shelter animals through enrichment, positive training, and applied research. We use force-free, evidence-based training grounded in the science of behavior analysis.
Through community partnerships, hands-on student learning, and a deep commitment to animal welfare, we help build a more compassionate and informed community.
The Five Animal Rights
We support the following rights for all animals in our care (adapted from Britain’s Farm Animal Council’s Five Freedoms):
- The right to adequate food and fresh water
- The right to a comfortable rest area with sufficient space
- The right to regular medical care—both preventative and diagnostic
- The right to express normal behaviors, including interaction, movement, and access to appropriate facilities
- The right to protection from mental suffering and access to interventions that alleviate distress
Meet the Lab Faculty
Dr. Alan Poling
Faculty Advisor
Dr. Poling is a professor in WMU’s Department of Psychology and chair of the Behavior Analysis program. With over 350 publications and 12 books to his name, he is a respected voice in the field and has mentored 38 Ph.D. graduates. Dr. Poling holds his B.A. from Alderson-Broaddus College, his M.A. from West Virginia University, and his Ph.D. University of Minnesota. He is a Fellow of multiple divisions of the American Psychological Association and the Association for Behavior Analysis International.
Kathryn Sweeney
Graduate Student Instructor
Kathryn is a Ph.D. candidate in the Behavior Analysis program at WMU and the lead instructor for the AABP. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Certified Professional Dog Trainer. Her research focuses on the ethical treatment and behavior of working and companion dogs, with special emphasis on reducing problem behaviors in shelter environments and supporting adoption retention.
Work With Us
Adopters
Thank you for giving a shelter dog a new beginning! If you're experiencing behavioral challenges with your new companion, the AABP team is here to support you.
Shelter and Community Partners
If you're a shelter in the Kalamazoo area, the AABP may be able to assist with:
- Behavioral concerns (spinning, jumping, excessive barking, aggression, resource guarding)
- Creating or enhancing enrichment programs and materials
- Training staff and volunteers in animal body language and behavior
Students
Interested in joining the practicum? The AABP is open to undergraduate students in good academic standing. This variable-credit course includes a weekly time commitment of 4–10 hours. To get started, complete the permission to elect application and return it to @email.
