Beyond LIMA: Insights from Eduardo Fernandez (PhD) and the LIFE Framework

Worry Less, Wag More: The Behavior Vets Podcast

In this episode, Dr. Fernandez introduces the LIFE framework as a more accurate model for than LIMA for force-free training. We discuss:

• Stereotypic behaviors in captive polar bears
• History of animal training and Behaviorism
• Criticisms and evolution of training models
• Introducing the LIFE Framework
• Exploring animal perception and the role of functional assessments
• The future of animal training: Connecting behavioral and welfare sciences
• Penguins!!

Dr. Eduardo Fernandez is a Senior Lecturer of Applied Animal Behaviour & Welfare and Director of the Animal Behaviour Program in the School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences at the University of Adelaide (Australia). He received his Ph.D. in Psychology (minors in Neuroscience and Animal Behavior) from Indiana University, where he worked with the Indianapolis and Cincinnati Zoo. He received his M.S. in Behavior Analysis from the University of North Texas, where he founded the Organization for Reinforcement Contingencies with Animals (ORCA). Most of his past and current work involves behavioral research applied to the welfare and training of zoo, aquarium, and companion animals. His past positions include a Visiting Professorship in the Psychology Department at Seattle Pacific University, a Visiting Professorship in the School of Behavior Analysis at the Florida Institute of Technology, an Affiliate Assistant Professorship in the Psychology Department at the University of Washington, a Research Fellowship with Woodland Park Zoo, and a National Science Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship. While working with UW and the Woodland Park Zoo, he started the Behavioral Enrichment Animal Research (BEAR) group, which conducted welfare research with many of the species and exhibits located throughout the zoo. He currently runs the Operant Welfare Lab (OWL), which is dedicated to the use of learning principles to improve the lives of animals. OWL is also part of the broader Animal Behaviour, Welfare, and Anthrozoology Lab (ABWAL; abwal.com). Many of Eduardo’s past publications, research projects, and presentations can be found on his ResearchGate profile.
Links:
Fernandez, E.J., 2024. The least inhibitive, functionally effective (LIFE) model: A new framework for ethical animal training practices. Journal of Veterinary Behavior. 71: 63-68.
Human Animal Interactions in Zoos (2024) edited by Eduardo J Fernandez and Sally L Sherwen
University of Adelaide - https://researchers.adelaide.edu.au/profile/eduardo.fernandez

ResearchGate - https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Eduardo-Fernandez-27

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ejfernandez/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/EduardoJFernandez

Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/DrEddieFern

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dreddiefern/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eduardojfernandez/

Email - [e-mail]

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