There may be times that you or your veterinarian voices concern over a behavior that your pet may be exhibiting. While your veterinarian may be able to give you some advice and troubleshooting tips it may be best to schedule a separate behavior consultation. Addressing behavior concerns can be very time-consuming as behavior problems often have complex histories and there are many variables involved that need to be figured out. By scheduling a behavior consultation you not only give yourself ample to time to discuss your pets' behavioral health, but you also get to work with a veterinarian that has specialized training in the field of behavior medicine. You wouldn't hesitate to schedule an appointment if your pet was limping or ill, why wait to address your pets' behavioral concerns that could be as life threatening as a disease?
Behavior Consults
How long is a behavior consult?
Once you or your veterinarian has determined a need for a behavior consult the next step is to determine how long of a consult do you need? Use the following guidelines to help you decide whether you would benefit from a 30 minute or a 60 minute consultation.
30 minute consults for dogs: Puppy/adolescent problems such as mouthing/biting, jumping up, pulling on leash, barking, digging, escaping/bolting through doors, chewing, hyperactivity, and stealing.
30 minute consults for cats: Kitten/adolescent problems such as mouthing/biting, jumping up on counters or tables, scratching furniture, nightime hyperactivity, and introductions to new pets.
60 minute consults for dogs: More than one puppy/adolescent behavior, fearful behavior*(fear of people, fear of vet or vet clinic, fear of strangers, fear of cars/trucks, fear of bicycles/skateboards, fear of noises), thunderstorm phobias, separation anxiety, protecting the food bowl or toys, protecting people, house-soiling, aggression to other dogs in the household, and aggression when being handled/moved/disturbed/groomed.
60 minute consults for cats: More than one kitten/adolescent behavior, fear of people, litter box problems, aggression to people or other cats in the household.
*Please note that any dog that is showing aggression to people or other dogs outside the home are recommended to have an at-home private behavior consultation.
How much does a behavior consult cost?
A 30 minute in hospital consult is $52.50.
A 60 minute in hospital consult is $105.
How do I set up an appointment?
You can contact the front desk of Flagler Animal Hospital to arrange for your appointment or you can call me directly at 386--585-0233. Once you have set up your appointment please download and fill out the appropriate history form and return it to me before your designated appointment.
