Frequently Asked Questions
Who can use button training?
Almost any animal can be trained to communicate with AAC buttons. Right now researchers are studying dogs, cats, horses and birds, but social media has even shown us a guinea pig that uses buttons! If you and your pet are both motivated to learn, we are here to help!
How long will it take?
Button training with your pet can take anywhere from a few days to a few months. It should be a FUN project that you both look forward to and enjoy! The real end goal is for you to build a better and more communicative relationship with your pet. Expect to spend at least 10-15 minutes a day, every day, working on this with your pet. Consistency and patience are key!
Is this training teaching my pet to speak?
Button training IS NOT language or speech acquisition. It is also not a 1:1 form of communication between you and your pet. What you think the “outside” button represents could mean “sky” or “freedom” or a number of different similar concepts to your pet. This is also why it’s important to avoid loaded emotional words or complex concepts.