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Behavior problems are a leading cause of pet relinquishment and euthanasia. Conditions such as anxiety, compulsive disorders or aggression can be stressful on a family and result in a breakdown of the human-animal bond. These are not “training” or “obedience” problems, but rather deep emotional issues which require careful, methodical, targeted, evidence-based, humane, fear-free, positive, and non-confrontational treatments for our patients.
Veterinarians are in a unique position to diagnose and treat your pet’s behavior problem, thanks to their formal training in behavioral neuroscience, psychology, genetics, learning theory, animal welfare, and current research. Behavioral issues are complex and multifactorial, and can result from historical circumstances, environmental triggers, neurochemical imbalances, emotional stressors, medical conditions, learned associations, or conflicts over social structures. Unfortunately, many self-proclaimed animal trainers are unlicensed and unregulated, lack adequate credentials, and continue to spread biased myths and methodologies about animal behavior that have long been debunked. Behavioral problems are often are not easily solvable and require a broad knowledge of factors associated with both animals and humans. Seeking competent, qualified, professional guidance can help you achieve the best possible learning outcomes for everyone involved.
Though dogs and cats are our most frequent visitors, we will also see birds, reptiles, exotic mammals, and permitted wildlife. We can assist in the development of behavior modification techniques, environmental enrichment, management strategies, hands-on exercises, and specialized systems to improve the behavior and well-being of any animal in your care. We are committed to helping you understand your pet’s behavior and achieve realistic goals which provide safety, harmony and comfort for everyone in the home. We can also provide home-visits for an additional fee.
Please fill out our behavior consultation request form below as completely and accurately as possible. The information you provide will be very important in understanding the needs of your pet and family, as well as for diagnosing and treating your pet’s behavior problem.
Once we have received this form from you, Dr. Tereza DeMuth will review and then contact you to schedule an appointment. Thank you!
***Please fast your pet prior to our appointment (exceptions to this include rabbits, rodents, ferrets, and if medically necessary) and bring a large bag of their favorite treats from home with you.
***Please be aware that a physical examination and some lab work may be recommended if a medical condition is suspected and/or if prescription medications are deemed an appropriate option for your pet.
***IF IT IS SAFE TO DO SO, please try to capture video(s) of your pet’s behavioral issue (including the events preceding and following the problem) which we can review together to try and help us understand the pet’s environment, pinpoint variables at play, observe human/animal body language, identify potential triggers, and implement some management tools and strategies into practice.
We look forward to seeing you!