The Training Method That Teaches Pets to Say ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ to Grooming

By Melissa Viera

Originally published on September 2, 2026, on WBSM 1420

Animals are always communicating. Our pets meow, bark, nudge us, and greet us excitedly, but what happens when we teach them that they can also say “yes” or “no” about their own care? From nail trims to brushing and more, pets can learn how to participate with less stress and more cooperation.

What Is Cooperative Care?

Cooperative care, a training and management method that relies on teaching animals the skills they need to participate in their care, isn’t new. A 2012 paper by Ken Ramirez traces the development of training marine mammals for medical behaviors to practices that began gaining ground in the 1970s. Today, you can find different versions of cooperative and low-stress care techniques in both zoos and aquariums, as well as at grooming salons, vet clinics, and dog training schools.

Lessons from Zoo Animals and Protected Contact

At the Buttonwood Park Zoo in New Bedford, animals are trained to participate in their care using techniques that build trust, Zoo Director Shara Rapoza shared.

“At Buttonwood Park Zoo, we utilize operant conditioning, positive reinforcement, and behavioral management to build trust and improve animal care in ways that reduce stress and give animals a choice to participate,” she said.

Read More: What Is Cooperative Care? A Guide to Low-Stress Pet Handling | https://wbsm.com/how-cooperative-care-improves-pet-health/?utm_source=tsmclip&utm_medium=referral