Animal Behaviour

Behaviour Consultations

I enjoy working with owners to help resolve behaviour problems in a variety of species. The common problems seen are aggression in dogs, house soiling in cats and stable vices such as self-mutilation in horses.

Behaviour consultation appointments are made by referring veterinarians or directly by the owners. The appointments last up to 2 hours. It is always advised that a complete physical exam +/- bloodwork be performed prior to the consultation to rule out any medical causes of the behaviour problem. If it is possible to videotape the behaviour safely, please do so as it will greatly aid in the diagnosing and treatment of the animal.

During the appointment, a diagnosis is made and owners learn how to control the problem behaviours. Owners are given a variety of specific behaviour modifying exercises to work on at home. Following the consultation, your animal's veterinarian is informed of the appointment and its outcome. If it is determined during the consultation that pharmacological support would aid in the initial treatment of the animal (such as separation anxiety), I work in conjunction with your veterinarian. Review sessions are set up to aid in the continuing treatment of your animal.