With classical counterconditioning we train the pet to associate the handling with things they like such as food, treats, petting, or play so that they are in a positive emotional state rather than feeling fearful or angry. We generally combine counterconditioning with desensitization, meaning that we start by introducing the handling or aversive stimulus at a level that the pet always acts as though they don't even notice the handling or stimulus that they previously disliked.
With classical counterconditioning we train the pet to associate the handling with things they like such as food, treats, petting, or play so that they are in a positive emotional state rather than feeling fearful or angry. We generally combine counterconditioning with desensitization, meaning that we start by introducing the handling or aversive stimulus at a level that the pet always acts as though they don't even notice the handling or stimulus that they previously disliked.