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Most pet owners, at one time or another, have been confronted with a pet that has behaved less than desirably and can relate to frustration over unsuccessful attempts to modify negative behavior. The intervention that we offer will enable an owner to provide clear and consistent direction towards desirable behavior and restore a loving human-animal bond. Your pet’s behavior problems will be treated by a veterinarian who specializes in behavior medicine and is capable of assessing undiagnosed medical conditions. Some behavior problems, for example, have roots in a medical illness that must first be addressed in order to resolve unwanted behavior. We will diagnose the “trigger” that causes your pet’s behavior problem and formulate behavior modification and re-training techniques to be implemented into your daily life.
Behavior consultation is an opportunity to thoroughly review your pet’s behavior problem with a veterinarian who is specially trained in animal behavior. A behavioral diagnosis will be made and explained, and treatment options discussed. A treatment period of three months will follow, during which time your pet’s progress will be monitored via brief phone or email communication. Treatment plans may include behavior modification, environment/management changes, and/or medication.
What to expect from a pet behavior consultation
Consultation
- Initial consultations will last 1 ½ to 2 hours.
- All members of the household are encouraged to attend.
- You will be asked to complete a behavioral questionnaire before your appointment.
- Problem behaviors and prior pet management will be discussed in detail.
Observation
- Your pet will be observed during the interview.
- Temperament testing is performed when appropriate.
- Videotaped recordings of problem behavior are encouraged.
- Observing some types of behavior may not be possible, desirable or necessary.
Behavior diagnosis
- Problem behaviors are defined and explained.
- Initiating and motivating factors are identified.
- Prognosis for improvement is provided.
Personalized treatment plan
- Behavior modification techniques will be recommended
- Management changes will be recommended.
- Medication may be discussed if appropriate.
- Additional reading material will be provided.
- Written copies of the treatment plan will be given to you and your pet’s veterinarian.
Follow-up
- Three months brief phone or email follow-up is included.
- Your pet’s progress will be monitored.
- Treatment recommendations are modified if necessary.
Pre-purchase counseling allows you to make a wise decision about including a new pet as part of your family, fitting into your personal lifestyle and creating a positive and predictable human-animal bond.
Acquiring a new pet requires developing behavior patterns through clear and consistent direction. AMCNE provides “Puppy Kindergarten,” a seven-week class to teach obedience and socialization in a fun and positive environment. The kindergarten program, developed by Dr. Michelle Posage, a member of the American Veterinary Society for Animal Behaviorists, is designed for puppies three to six months of age. The class meets weekly for 60 minutes; classes are kept small for individual attention when needed. We have a large, air conditioned space within the hospital to accommodate puppies and families alike. All family members are invited to participate in class and learn how to raise a behaviorally healthy puppy. Because the puppies have such a good time during class, they learn to enjoy coming to the hospital – even for vaccinations!
To register for our next Puppy Kindergarten, check our calendar for dates and times.
If you are expecting a new baby, advanced preparation with your pet will significantly improve the homecoming experience. Here are a few tips to prepare for the baby’s arrival:
- Try to imitate the new schedule that you will have with your baby so that your pet becomes accustomed to the new routine. For your dog, implement a time of 20 minutes or more each day when you can entirely devote your attention to your pet. Keep this routine in place after the baby arrives so that your pet will feel included as a valued family member.
- Take your pet to the family veterinarian to be sure that he/she is healthy and up-to-date on all vaccines.
- Before the baby comes home, bring an article of clothing that smells like the hospital (or the baby) for your pet to get acquainted with.
Dr. Posage can help you to thoroughly prepare for your baby’s homecoming and make the event a pleasant experience that fully includes your pet companions.
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