Dr. Liam Clay
Canine Behaviour Scientist & Veterinary Behaviour Technician
Dr. Liam Clay is a canine behaviour scientist and veterinary behaviour technician with a background in dog training, shelter welfare and clinical behaviour.
He works closely with shelters, veterinary teams, councils and industry partners to develop and refine behaviour assessments, training programs and welfare frameworks. He continues to teach and supervise in animal behaviour and research, and is committed to making evidence-based behaviour knowledge accessible to both professionals and the wider community.
Qualifications
PhD in Canine Behaviour
University of Queensland
Thesis: The application/evaluation of behavioural assessments in shelter environments to recognise behavioural problems and adoption suitability.
VTS (Behavior)
Academy of Veterinary Behaviour Technicians, 2020
First Veterinary Behaviour Technician in Australia — specialising in clinical behaviour support and behaviour modification.
Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours)
University of Queensland
Honours in Canine Behavioural Problems and Stress in Shelters. Research conducted at the RSPCA Wacol Animal Campus.
Bachelor of Applied Science
University of Queensland
Major in Veterinary Technology — clinical veterinary skills combined with animal behaviour foundations.
Experience & roles
AABA Consultants — Owner
Consulting on behaviour programs for industry and private organisations including RSPCA, private shelters, veterinary clinics, councils and legal professionals.
Future Proof Training Academy — Director / Co-founder
Behaviour consultations from veterinary referrals, behaviour modification for severe cases, workshops, behaviour daycare and training, and staff education.
Research & Teaching
Ongoing research in canine behaviour, shelter welfare and behaviour assessment. Teaching and supervising in animal behaviour at university and industry level.
Industry Contributions
Behaviour and welfare auditing and programme development across shelters and veterinary settings. Dangerous dog behavioural assessments for local government. Public access and obedience testing.
Our approach
Applied Animal Behaviour Analysis (AABA) uses the principles of learning and behaviour science to understand why animals behave the way they do — and how we can change behaviour humanely and effectively.
At AABA, we use this approach to:
- Identify the underlying motivation and function of behaviour
- Design tailored behaviour modification plans for individual dogs and households
- Develop robust behaviour and temperament assessments for shelters, councils and legal contexts
- Support One Welfare and Five Domains frameworks in everyday practice
The goal is simple: better welfare, clearer decisions and safer, more sustainable outcomes for dogs and people.
Work with Dr. Clay
Whether you need a behaviour assessment, expert opinion, or education support — get in touch to discuss your case.
Get in Touch