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Veterinary Behaviour Consultation Service

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FAQS

What is the difference between your services and that of a Dog Trainer?

Animal Behaviour problems are not the same as training problems. In practice I often see the most obedient, highly trained dogs or cats that unfortunately suffer from anxiety and so may display Behaviours that their owners find problematic.

Unlike a Dog Trainer, I have the skills and training required to expertly diagnose underlying psychological problems and am able to prescribe medications (if necessary).

What does an average behavior consult look like?

The average initial behaviour consult usually lasts about 2-3 hours. Depending on Coronavirus restrictions, the majority of these first consultations are carried out as a home visit.

During the consult we take time discussing your pet’s past experiences, the problem behaviour and their environment to allow me to make an initial determination. We then discuss the prognosis, target goals and strategies to modify that behaviour as well as any medications that might support our objectives.

After the session I will thoroughly document the case and provide you materials including instructions, techniques and goals to begin implementing at home. In our next session we have a quick “debrief” on progress and any challenges you faced before progressing with our strategy. Behaviour is all about teamwork. My aim is to ensure you feel supported and confident at all times.

Will my pet be fixed after the session?

It depends on the problem! Behavioural problems are usually quite complex and chances are, if you have come to me, you consider it to be significant. Experience shows that a collaborative approach involving smaller, gradual goal setting and achievement is the most effective way to make a lasting behavioural change. For those of you with children, you will know what I mean!

I prefer to see my patients on an ongoing basis to work through the behavioural modification process together. This prevents you feeling isolated or burdened and helps me to provide the most current, targeted support.

Most behavioural problems involve some ongoing work at home.

Do you guarantee to fix my pet’s behavioural problem?

All animals are different. Some behavioural problems are extremely hard to eliminate and the prognosis depends on a number of factors. In almost all cases it should be expected to see demonstrable improvement even if the target problem is not entirely eliminated.

We discuss your pet’s prognosis and agree a target outcome during consultations.

Do you see aggressive dogs?

Yes! I often see dogs that are aggressive to both other dogs and also people. Special care and attention is required, but I do not believe it fair to apply a surcharge just because of their particular condition.

Where do you hold consultations?

I currently do the majority of my initial consultations via House Calls (Covid restrictions dependent!) Follow ups are performed either via Zoom or in person as required.

Is there any preparation I should undertake prior to a consultation?

Yes. Prior to the initial consultation, I will need a referral from your GP Veterinarian.

I will also provide you with a basic questionnaire to complete prior.

What are the typical behavioural problems you manage?

I see a wide range of behavioural problems. The most common include:
• Urine spraying/ inappropriate urination in cats
• Aggression in cats and dogs
• Overgrooming in cats
• Barking dogs
• Thunderstorm phobias
• Separation issues

I am extensively experienced in managing a whole range of behavioural problems, as well as providing instruction and support on preventative behaviour management.

I most often see dogs and cats but am fully qualified in many other species (birds, reptiles, rabbits even your pet fish!). If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me to discuss.

Will medication be required? Can you prescribe this?

It depends! Lots of patients do not need medication – but this is almost never used in isolation. In many cases medication is essential to reduce an animal’s anxiety levels and enables them to learn as part of a behavioural modification program.

As a fully qualified and practicing Veterinarian, I am able to write prescriptions as required.

What do all your qualifications mean?!

BVSc: I am a degree-qualified Veterinary Surgeon, registered with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons 

BSc (Hons): I hold a first class degree in Animal Behaviour and Welfare

MANZCVS (Veterinary Behaviour): I am a member (by examination) of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists. This is a further qualification which demonstrates an in-depth knowledge in a certain subject (in my case Behaviour)

ABTC (Animal Behaviour and Training Council) Registered Veterinary Behaviourist and Clinical Animal Behaviourist. 

ASAB (Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour) Accredited Clinical Animal Behaviourist 

Full member of both the APBC (Association of Pet Behaviour Councillors) and FABC (Fellowship of Animal Behaviour Clinicians) 

 

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