Pet Behavior Corrected Through Pet Counseling
Pet behavior therapy, also known as pet behavior counseling, is a treatment that aims to address and improve unwanted or problematic behaviors in pets. It is an essential aspect of pet care that can help improve the quality of life for both pets and their owners.
Our veterinarian at Connolly Animal Clinic in Florence, AL, will assess your pet to determine the underlying causes of the pet's behavior problems and develop effective treatment plans. Contact us today if you notice the following behavioral issues in your pet for professional pet behavior counseling.
Aggression
Aggressive behavior in pets is a common problem that can be directed toward other animals, humans, or both. Signs of aggressive behavior in pets may include tendencies such as growling, biting, snapping, and lunging. There are different types of aggression, each with its causes and triggers:
- Territorial Aggression - This occurs when a pet feels threatened by an intrusion into its space, such as a new pet or person in the home.
- Possessive Aggression - Portrayed when a pet becomes protective of a particular object, such as a toy or food bowl.
- Fear-based Aggression - When a pet feels threatened or scared and may lash out in self-defense.
- Redirected Aggression - This aggression is when a pet is prevented from reaching the source of its aggression, such as another animal or person. nstead turns its aggression towards a nearby target.
Anxiety and Phobias
Anxiety and phobias in pets can be caused by various triggers, such as loud noises, being alone, or specific people or animals. These behaviors can manifest in different ways, such as excessive barking or whining, shaking or trembling, hiding or avoiding certain areas or people, and even urination or defecation in the house.
House Soiling
House soiling, or defecation outside the designated toilet area, can be caused by various factors, such as medical problems, lack of training, or changes in the pet's routine or environment. Pets may also start soiling in the house due to a lack of access to the designated toilet area or if they perceive the place to be too dirty or uncomfortable.
Destructive Behavior
Destructive behavior in pets, such as chewing, digging, or scratching, can cause damage to household items or furniture. Various factors, such as boredom, anxiety, or lack of mental and physical stimulation, can cause these behaviors.
Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is when a pet becomes anxious or stressed when left alone. This behavior can lead to destruction and vocalization, such as barking or whining.
It can be caused by various factors, including a lack of early socialization, past traumatic experiences, a history of being re-homed, or a sudden change in the pet's routine or environment. Additionally, pets with a strong bond with their owners may develop separation anxiety if their owner is frequently away or spends less time with them. You can control the behavior through boarding services to reduce the pet’s boredom when alone.
Help Your Pet Overcome Behavioral Vices Through Pet Counseling
A professional pet behaviorist can help identify the underlying causes of behavioral problems in pets and develop a customized behavior modification plan. Our veterinarian in Florence, AL, combines various behavior modification techniques, such as desensitization and counter-conditioning to change the pet's response to multiple triggers.
They also employ positive reinforcement training to encourage more appropriate behaviors for a more holistic outcome and a well-mannered pet. A pet wellness exam can also help tell whether the pet may have other underlying medical conditions contributing to undesirable behaviors. Contact us today at (256) 757-5376 for professional pet behavior counseling to help get your pet on your desired behavior patterns.
