Benefits of Pet Behavioral Consultations

Just like humans, animals experience anxiety, stress, and other behavioral disorders. Behavior modification helps treat pets that have experienced something traumatic. Cats and dogs can benefit from behavioral treatment. Pet behavioral consultants often design programs that help pets and can prescribe medication when necessary. There are several benefits to receiving pet behavioral consultations.

 

Anxiety and Stress in Pets

Anxiety and stress are common behavioral issues that pets face. Fortunately, some treatments can manage these conditions. The specialist often helps identify triggers that cause anxiety. They then work on a plan that includes calming aids, anti-anxiety medication, and lifestyle changes. They can also come up with desensitization plans to help the pet learn how to be happy and calm.

 

Separation Anxiety in Pets

Pets experience a form of separation anxiety, especially dogs and cats. This happens when their owners leave them alone for long. Separation anxiety may leave the pet owner feeling overwhelmed. However, there are simple techniques to help the animal. They include socialization, providing stimulating distractions, crate training, increasing exercise, and remaining calm during departures and arrivals. Calming aids and anti-anxiety medication can also help.

 

Territorial and Aggressive Behavior

Pets often exhibit territorial or aggressive behavior when they feel threatened or anxious. First, it is important to find out the root cause of the behavior to deal with it. Different steps can be used to help your aggressive pet. Removing triggers of the behavior and other lifestyle changes can help. Working with a licensed pet trainer can be helpful. Behavioral consultants can map out a program that will work for each specific animal.

 

Behavioral Consultation Process

During the behavioral consultation, the expert will ask about the pet’s history and behavior. They will also conduct a thorough exam to look for physical issues causing the problem. In some cases, a health condition or pain may be causing anxiety or aggression. The vet needs to rule out physical causes or illness before starting treatment for the behavioral conditions.

 

Complete Treatment Plan

After consultation, the doctor will come up with the best treatment plan for your animal. Having a video of the pet’s behavior can be helpful during consultation. The doctor will review the video alongside other test results. This will help them come up with a complete treatment plan. The plan may include calming aids, medication, training exercises, and lifestyle changes.

 

There are some important questions that you need to ask during the behavioral consultation. You need to know if your pet will require medication for the behavioral issue. Find out about the anti-anxiety medications available and ask how long the animal will need the medication. If you have several pets that are not getting along, a behavioral consultant can help you to find a solution. The consultant can also recommend a dog trainer you can work with.

 

Learn more about the benefits of pet behavioral consultations, contact Lakeville Family Pet Clinic in Lakeville, MN at (952) 595-6500.