Help for Pet Behaviour Concerns
If you’re worried about your pet’s behaviour, know that you’re not alone—and we’re here to help. Many pet owners feel unsure or embarrassed when reaching out, but your concern shows how much you care. We’ll listen, offer guidance, and work with you to find solutions.
Addressing Behavioural Challenges in Dogs & Cats
At Barrhaven Veterinary Hospital, we are proud to offer behaviour consultations for dogs and cats. We approach challenging pet behaviors with the following principals.
We Choose an Empathy First Approach
Behavioral issues can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that it’s not your fault. Sometimes, adjusting how you interact with your pet can help, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Whether through our hospital or a referral to a trusted veterinary behavior specialist or certified professional dog trainers (CPDTs), support is available. Our goal is to provide you with advice that can prevent the issue from getting worse.
Safety Comes First with Fearful, Anxious and Aggressive Behaviour
If your pet is showing signs of aggression, keeping everyone safe is our top priority. We recommend keeping your pet out of situations that might trigger aggressive reactions, like separating them from visitors or using barriers to keep them apart from children or other pets. If certain actions make your pet aggressive, try to avoid those until you can get professional help.
Referring to a Veterinary Behaviour Specialist
For more complex behaviour problems, we may refer your pet to a board-certified veterinary behaviourist. Just like you would see an orthopedic surgeon for a broken leg, a veterinary behaviour specialist is trained to handle serious behavioural concerns. These specialists are certified by the American College of Veterinary Behaviourists (ACVB) and hold the title DACVB (Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviourists), meaning they’ve completed advanced training and have a unique combination of education, clinical expertise, and medical knowledge to diagnose and design a treatment plan for your pet. Referring your pet to a behaviour specialist is an important step toward finding the right solution.
No Punishment, Just Patience
Studies show that punishing your pet can actually increase fearful, anxious and aggressive behaviour. Instead, we focus on keeping them calm and out of trouble while you wait for professional advice on a long-term plan.
Behavioural modification techniques are the primary treatment, but in some cases, medications can also be recommended to aid in the management of the problem. We offer individualized dog and cat behavioural counselling.
What to Expect During a Behaviour Consultation with our Veterinarian
If you're concerned about your pet’s behaviour, a consultation with our veterinarian can help you take the first steps toward understanding and addressing the issue.
We can offer valuable guidance and help you take important steps toward improving your pet’s behavior and overall well-being. Throughout the consultation, pet parents can expect a judgment-free, supportive environment where the well-being of both the pet and the family is the top priority.
The Benefits of a Behaviour Consultation
Addressing behaviour concerns through a veterinary behaviour consultation can significantly strengthen the bond between you and your pet, fostering a more harmonious home environment.
Here are some key benefits of such a consultation and the positive impact they can have on your pet's well-being:
New Patients Welcome
Our veterinary team would love to get to know your dog or cat and provide them with high-quality veterinary care. Contact us today to book an appointment for your companion.