From Whales with Fur to A Dolphin in Front of You: A primer on animal training and landing a job as a dolphin trainer

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A compilation of two books: Whales with Fur and A Dolphin in Front of You. The first, Whales with Fur, is used as a training primer by marine mammal trainers, zookeepers and pet owners around the globe. The second book, A Dolphin in Front of You, is a simple how-to guide to starting a career in the animal training field, specifically with marine mammals. Both books are written by Pete Davey, a trainer who worked for close to two decades with whales, dolphins, sea lions, seals, tigers, sea otters, river otters, birds and more. He worked at four major oceanariums, and as a curator and director of training, designed training programs and hired and trained dozens of trainers. He is currently a professor of marine mammal behavior for the Animal Behavior Institute.
Foreword for Whales with Fur by Jack Hanna:
I’ve been around animals all my life – both domestic and wild. One thing I’ve learned is that they are all different, not only as species, but as individuals, as well. And even though animals can be so different, in my travels and through all my experiences with animals, I’ve noticed a common thread. One of the best ways to take care of any animal is through training – training is just teaching, whether for physical and mental stimulation, or for the best care of the animal. Animal training, although pioneered through amazing work with dolphins and whales, is now used successfully with many species of animals. In fact, training programs are becoming common at many zoos.
So even though each animal is unique as a species, and even each individual can be unique, one can look at working with the animals in a consistent, clear manner. This is exactly what Whales with Fur is all about.
Pete Davey has trained whales and dolphins for several years, and used the same training approach for tigers, otters, and other animals. And now you can learn how to use it as well! Pete discusses training approaches in a fun way that will make your relationship with your pet much happier and healthier.
It is imperative that your pet knows what you want – and don’t want – from it. This is an important relationship and your pets should not go from day to day with mixed messages that don’t make sense. So enjoy Whales with Fur and soon you’ll be enjoying everything you wanted from your pet – and maybe even more!
Jack Hanna,
Director Emeritus, Columbus Zoo and host of TV’ s “Animal Adventures”

Reviews for Whales with Fur:
"Whether you struggling to train your new puppy to sit, or have aspirations of a career in professional animal training, Pete Davey's Whales with Fur is definitely a book that demands your attention. Pete's great insights to the animal world and training techniques make this a must read!"
Jack Hanna
Host, Animal Adventures

"Whales with Fur is not your typical animal training book! Pete takes a creative approach to discussing training your pet or any other animal, by drawing on his experience with exotic animals. His writing style and unique wit make this book a fun and informative read."
Ken Ramirez
Vice-President of Training and Husbandry
Shedd Aquarium, and author of "Animal Training"

"Pete Davey has managed to write a training manual that details the basic principles used in marine mammal training in a manner that is humorous and easy to read and understand. Whales with Fur is a book that any pet owner interested in training his or her pet must own. This book is also a value to anyone with an interest in animal behavior."
Terry W. Campbell, MS, DVM, PhD
Service Chairman of Zoological Medicine
Colorado State University