Two of our AMC doctors, Dr. Carraway and Dr. Bowden have a special interest in canine and feline behavior, and have done extra study in this area to help clients solve behavior problems in their pets. Note: we can’t help you with human teenagers!
Behavior consultations involve a detailed behavioral history, behavior profile with temperament evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment plan. A treatment plan is provided that includes behavioral and environmental modification and training recommendations. Anxiety-relieving medications may be prescribed/recommended pending your pet’s condition.
Some of the common types of behavior disorders we treat are:
- Anxiety – separation anxiety, generalized anxiety, thunderstorm phobia, specific fears
- Inappropriate elimination – house soiling, marking, litterbox training submissive/excitement urination
- Scratching
- Interpet conflict
- Shyness
- Barking
- Digging and escaping
- Begging
- Jumping on people
- Chewing
It is important to intervene early with behavioral issues, before the behavior becomes a learned habit. It is also important to realize that there are no magic pills that will change your pet’s behavior, and change will not happen overnight. It requires a multi-modal approach, including behavior modification techniques, and must be individualized to each animal.
When you make your appointment for a behavioral consultation, we will send you a behavior history questionnaire to complete. This questionnaire needs to be completed and returned 48 hours prior to your scheduled appointment time. We recommend that you bring in a stool or urine sample if your behavior consultation is regarding inappropriate elimination. Each appointment is about an hour long. Please bring your pet with you.