Pets act out in a number of ways, and many of their behaviors can be quite unpleasant. Whether it's a simple house training issue or serious aggression, behavioral problems can damage the bond you share with your companion.
Behavioral problems are among the leading reasons pets are surrendered to animal shelters. At Angel Animal Hospital, we want to help you address and resolve these issues before they become unmanageable.
Our behavioral counseling services help pet owners identify the underlying causes of problem behaviors—including fear, anxiety, medical conditions, and environmental stress.
We offer compassionate, science-based behavioral modification plans for separation anxiety, noise phobias (thunderstorms and fireworks), destructive chewing, litter box aversion, inter-pet conflict, and compulsive behaviors.
Rule Out Medical Causes First
A crucial first step in any behavioral change is scheduling a comprehensive medical examination with Dr. Candace Fisher. Many sudden or distressing behavioral changes are actually secondary symptoms of underlying physical pain or illness:
- Inappropriate Urination / House Soiling: Frequently caused by painful urinary tract infections (UTIs), sterile cystitis, bladder stones, kidney failure, or feline idiopathic cystitis.
- Sudden Irritability or Aggression: Often triggered by hidden dental root abscesses, spinal disc pain, arthritis, or ear infections when touched.
- Pacing & Nocturnal Restlessness: Common in senior dogs suffering from Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD/pet dementia) or hypertension.
- Excessive Licking or Flank Sucking: Can indicate neuropathic pain, gastrointestinal nausea, or severe dermatological allergies.
Common Behavioral Challenges We Help Resolve
Comprehensive Behavioral Modification Protocols
Dr. Fisher crafts individualized behavioral therapy plans combining:
- Environmental Modification: Providing mental enrichment, food puzzle toys, pheromone diffusers (Adaptil / Feliway), and safe retreat spaces.
- Desensitization & Counter-Conditioning: Gradually exposing pets to anxiety triggers at sub-threshold levels while rewarding calm responses with high-value treats.
- Targeted Behavioral Pharmaceuticals: For severe anxiety, safe medications (such as SSRIs, gabapentin, or trazodone) can help lower neurotransmitter reactivity, allowing your pet to learn and respond to positive training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will behavioral medications change my pet's personality or make them a zombie?
No. The goal of modern veterinary behavioral pharmacology is never sedation; it is to normalize neurotransmitter imbalances (like serotonin and GABA) so your pet feels calm, secure, and capable of learning without overwhelming panic.
What is the best way to stop my dog from jumping on guests?
Teach and reward an alternate incompatible behavior, such as 'Sit' or 'Go to your mat'. Never push, yell, or touch an excited jumping dog, as any physical attention reinforces the behavior.