Behavioral Modification
Behavior Modification and Pet Training in Campbell and Saratoga
Happy & Healthy Pets
Behavior modification in an unruly pet is not a process that happens overnight. Changing a pet’s behaviors will require an ongoing and consistent routine of positive reinforcement and, in some cases, prescription medication to build better habits and allow you to strengthen your bond. If you are struggling to manage your cat or dog’s behavior at home, Reed Animal Hospital can help you identify the source of bad behaviors to create a specialized behavior modification program that will work for your pet.
Types of Bad Animal Behavior
Behavioral Problems in Dogs There are a variety of situations that may prompt you to seek behavior modification for your pet. Aggressive behavior, destructive chewing, food guarding, biting, compulsive barking, and howling can pose problems in your home, but these are manageable behaviors with the right approach.
Causes of Behavioral Issues in Pets
To design an effective behavior modification program, your veterinarian at Reed Animal Hospital will evaluate your pet to seek underlying issues that may manifest bad behaviors. In many cases, there is a physical medical issue or generalized anxiety at the heart of destructive or aggressive behaviors. Treating these issues can improve behavior and allow you to spend more time with your pet.
Separation Anxiety
If your pet primarily acts out when you are gone or about to leave the house, separation anxiety may be to blame. When separation anxiety is severe, it could lead to the destruction of your household when you are away. By identifying the problem and using medication and counterconditioning to address it, you can make leaving home more practical for you and your dog.
Medical Problems
When dealing with any type of behavioral issue, you will want to rule out physical health problems as the cause. Dogs and cats are not capable of vocalizing when something is wrong, so negative behaviors could be a cry for help.
Environmental Inconsistencies
After moving, adopting a new pet, or other changes at home, pets can build up anxiety that may inspire a number of undesirable behaviors. Providing your pet with familiar toys, blankets, or bedding can be helpful, but you may need to spend more time building a consistent routine for your pet. Daily exercise, consistent commands and boundaries, and regular positive reinforcement will comfort your pet and ease the transition to a new environment. Remember that pets respond positively to consistency, so allowing your pet special treats or letting him on the couch just once could do more harm than good. Contact us today at Reed Animal Hospital for more tips on managing your pet’s environmental inconsistencies.
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