David Okafor
David is a certified applied animal behaviourist (CAAB) specialising in separation anxiety, reactivity, resource guarding, fear responses, and inter-dog conflict. His guides help owners understand the function behind their pet's behaviour using humane, science-based modification strategies, drawing on CAAB, IAABC, and Fear Free Pets research.
- Credentials
- CAAB, PhD Animal Behaviour, Fear Free certified
- Focus
- Behaviour
Authored Guides
Senior Dogs and July 4th Fireworks: A Calm Plan
Ageing ears and cognitive decline can sharpen a senior dog's fear of Independence Day fireworks. This guide covers safe rooms, subtle panic signals, and a humane settling plan.
Senior Cats and Nordic Midnight Sun: Body Language Guide
Constant Arctic daylight subtly reshapes senior cat behaviour, from sleep cycles to vocalisation and perching. This guide shows owners exactly what to watch for and how to track it.
Summer Daylight, Senior Pets' Sleep and Sundowning
Long Northern European summer days can unsettle ageing cats and dogs, worsening sundowning and night restlessness. Learn blackout routines, vet-led melatonin discussions, and a calm settling plan.
Helping a Newly Adopted Dog Settle Into Group Daycare
A behaviour-led guide to easing a freshly adopted dog into group daycare after the spring adoption rush. Learn gradual exposure, stress signals, drop-off associations, and a four-week plan.
How to Assess a Shelter Dog's Temperament Before Adoption
Behaviour evaluations in shelters measure stress responses, not personality. This guide explains what tests reveal, their limitations, and how to support a new dog through decompression.
Enrichment Dog Daycare: What to Look For and Ask
Not every dog thrives in free play daycare. Learn how enrichment-based programming uses scent work, puzzle stations, and structured activities to reduce stress and support canine wellbeing.
Should You Adopt a Second Dog in Summer?
Adding a second dog during summer seems convenient, but the timing can backfire. This guide covers readiness assessment, introduction protocols, resource guarding prevention, and budget planning.
AI Pet Cameras for Separation Anxiety: 2026 Guide
AI pet cameras with two-way audio promise real-time separation anxiety monitoring, but do they actually help? This guide compares features, bark detection accuracy, smart home integration, and the behavioural science behind remote soothing.
Spring Enrichment Schedule for Dog Daycare
A science-based framework for structuring rotating activity stations, breed-appropriate play groups, and rest periods at dog daycare during spring. This guide helps staff prevent overstimulation through scent work integration and behavioural monitoring.
Help a Fearful Rescue Cat Build Confidence
Systematic desensitisation can transform a terrified rescue cat into a relaxed companion. This eight week guide covers stress signals, safe base rooms, gradual exposure stages, and progress signs most owners overlook.
How to Socialise a Puppy at Daycare Safely
Puppy daycare socialisation requires careful management of group size, staff ratios, and stress signals. This guide covers age-appropriate protocols, overstimulation warning signs, and essential questions to ask before enrolment.
Canine Body Language: A Guide for Daycare Staff
Daycare staff who can read canine stress signals prevent bites, reduce injuries, and create safer play groups. This guide covers the body language cues, breed play differences, and intervention strategies every handler needs.