The Potter League endorses and utilizes the scientifically proven LIMA (Least Intrusive and Minimally Aversive) approach to animal training.

I. What Is LIMA?

LIMA is an approach to training and behavior modification that promotes the use of the least intrusive (forceful) and minimally aversive (unpleasant) strategies and techniques in order to achieve the desired outcomes.

II. Why Use It?

The LIMA approach focuses on positive reinforcement of desired behaviors as the first line of teaching, training, and behavior modification. Research has consistently shown that a positive reinforcement-based approach is more effective in achieving desired results than a punishment-based approach.

The LIMA approach aims to accomplish the desired change(s) through the use of classical interventions including reinforcement of an alternative behavior, desensitization, and counterconditioning.

The LIMA approach does not use punishment as a means of training or behavioral modification because punishment does not teach more appropriate behaviors and can facilitate or cause aggressive behavior and/or extreme fear. Also, punishment may inadvertently cause physical harm to the animal, increased aggression, a negative association with the person implementing it, apathy, and escape/avoidance behaviors.

III. Pros

The LIMA approach has been adopted by both the APDT (Association of Professional Dog Trainers) and IAABC (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants)
The LIMA approach establishes standards that allow practitioners to change animal behavior effectively while minimizing stress or aversive experiences for the animals
Positive reinforcement based training has consistently been proven to be more effective than other methods of training

IV. Cons

Most of the general public does not yet understand the term “LIMA”
Competency in the LIMA approach demands a higher level of education for trainers
V. Conclusion

Real animal behavior modification requires time and patience. There are no quick fixes. Training thru fear and dominance has been shown to be counter-productive in the long term, as it may create more severe problems that will need to be addressed. Adhering to the LIMA approach is a commitment to using the most positive, least intrusive and effective training methods to accomplish behavior goals.

References:

  1. American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (2020). AVSAB Position Statement: The Use of Punishment for Behavior Modification in Animals. Retrieved January 2020 from https://avsab.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Punishment_Position_Statement-download_-_10-6-14.pdf
  2. AppliedBehaviorAnalysisEDU.org (2020). Applied Behavior Analysts in Animal Training and Behavior Modification. Retrieved January 2020 from https://www.appliedbehavioranalysisedu.org/animal-behavior-training/
  3. Buckley, Dylan. “Understanding the Antecedent Behavior Consequence Model.” Betterhelp.com, 3 December 2019, www.betterhelp.com/advice/behavior/understanding-the-antecedent-behavior-consequence-model/ 
  4. Friedman, Susan G. “What’s Wrong With This Picture? Effectiveness Is Not Enough.” Behaviorworks.org, 2018, www.behaviorworks.org/htm/for_dogs_too.html
  5. International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (2019). Hierarchy of Procedures for Humane and Effective Practice. Retrieved January 2020 from https://m.iaabc.org/about/lima/hierarchy/
  6. International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (2019). IAABC Position Statement on Lima. Retrieved January 2020 from https://m.iaabc.org/docs/iaabc/position-statements/position-statement-lima.pdf
  7. Potter League for Animals (2020). Dog Training – A Compassionate, Sensible, Effective Approach. Retrieved January 2020 from  www.potterleague.org/2019/12/08/dog-training-a-compassionate-sensible-effective-approach/ 
  8. Potter League for Animals. Welcome to the Kneady Cat Program – Handbook. (2019) 
  9. The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (2017). LIMA Frequently Asked Questions – APDT. Retrieved January 202 from https://apdt.com/about/position-statements/lima_faq/
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