Behavior Counseling

Veterinary behaviorists are highly trained specialists in both animal behavior and medicine, uniquely qualified to address complex issues like anxiety and aggression. Their extensive training includes a veterinary degree, a residency in animal behavior and behavioral pharmacology, and rigorous board certification. They are skilled at identifying and treating medical causes of behavioral problems, and, if needed, the use of medication to treat behavioral problems. With expertise in psychopharmacology, medical treatment, and training techniques, veterinary behaviorists address behavioral issues of all types, improving animal well-being and strengthening bonds with their families. We see all species for behavioral concerns.

Veterinary behaviorists are trained to treat a wide range of problem behaviors in all species, including but not limited to:

• Aggression toward people or other animals
• Anxiety and fear-based behaviors, such as phobias or separation anxiety
• Compulsive disorders, such as tail chasing or over-grooming
• House-soiling or inappropriate elimination
• Excessive barking, meowing, or vocalization
• Resource guarding of food, toys, or spaces
• Attention-seeking or overly dependent behaviors
• Socialization issues, including fear of new people, pets, or environments
• Behavioral changes due to medical or neurological conditions
• Fear or aggression with veterinary handling

Our hospital is able to address these behaviors often through a combination of medical treatment and customized behavior modification plans.