Our Story

Joanna graduated with a bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Virginia and then adopted a dog named formerly feral dog named Duncan. Duncan had challenging behavior issues and Joanna began applying the scientific principles of Behaviorism (how animals learn) that she had learned during her psychology degree to help Duncan. Joanna had a lifelong passion for helping animals which she channeled into a career as a veterinary nurse where she saw many veterinary clients struggling with pet behavior issues such including biting and self-mutilation. Joanna obtained a Master's degree in Applied Animal Behavior and Animal Welfare Science from the prestigious Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies. After graduating with highest honors and completing a scientific study of parrot behavior and enrichment at a parrot sanctuary, she founded The Animal Behavior Consultancy, LLC in 2017. She has had the honor of helping pet guardians to care for many species of pets (dogs, cats, fish, rats, rabbits, pigs, horses, etc) with many behavior and husbandry issues since 2017. She has also given talks to pet guardians, bird clubs, parrot rescues, zoo keepers, veterinary schools and veterinary staff to share her knowledge of pet behavior. She continues to offer in-home and virtual sessions to help pet guardians provide the best possible care to their beloved pets.