Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a vet focusing on behavioral care different from an animal trainer?
- Advanced Medical Training – A vet focusing on behavioral care has advanced medical education, allowing them to diagnose and treat health issues that may contribute to behavior problems.
- Medical & Behavioral Approach – They have the ability to address both the medical and behavioral aspects. A large percentage of behavioral disorders have medical roots that contribute to issues, even if they aren’t apparent at home.
- Ability to Prescribe Medication – A vet focusing on behavioral care can prescribe medications when necessary to support treatment, while trainers focus on teaching behaviors and commands.
- Diagnostic Expertise – They know which specific medical tests to recommend in order to identify underlying health conditions that may affect behavior.
- Therapy & Treatment Plans – Their approach often combines therapy, behavior modification, and medical interventions for lasting results.
Do you always use medication?
Not always! A common misconception is vets focusing on behavioral care rely on medication for every case. While it can be helpful in certain situations, it’s never prescribed lightly.
- Medication is a tool, not a solution – When recommended, it’s to support your pet’s progress, not to sedate them.
- Supports learning & well-being – It helps reduce anxiety and makes pets more receptive to training, especially when stress has blocked their ability to learn.
- Part of a bigger plan – Medication alone isn’t enough. We combine it with behavior modification, training, and lifestyle changes for lasting results.
- Safety first – Side effects are rare, and we closely monitor your pet’s response to support their well-being.
Every pet is different, and our approach is always tailored to their unique needs!
How fast can I expect to see progress?
Every pet is unique, so progress depends on factors like the severity of their behavior, consistency in training, and their individual response to treatment.
- Some pets show improvement within a few weeks, especially with structured guidance and management.
- For more complex cases, progress may take months, as behavioral changes require patience and consistency.
- Medication (if recommended) can take time to reach full effectiveness, and adjustments may be needed along the way.
Our goal is lasting, meaningful change, and we’ll support you throughout the process to ensure the best outcome for your pet.
Do I need a referral from my regular vet?
No, a referral is not required! However, we strongly recommend:
- Sending your pet’s veterinary records to our email in advance for review.
- Having recent bloodwork (within the last 3 months) to ensure a thorough evaluation.
This helps us get a complete picture of your pet’s health and provide the best possible care.
Will muzzle training have a negative effect on my dog?
Not at all! When introduced properly, muzzle training can be a positive and stress-free experience for your dog.
- Muzzles are a safety tool, not a punishment – They protect both your dog and others in certain situations, like vet visits or high-stress environments.
- Prevents negative associations – Proper training ensures your dog sees the muzzle as a normal and even rewarding experience.
- Encourages confidence – Many dogs feel more relaxed when they and their owners feel safe in unpredictable situations.
With positive reinforcement, your dog can learn to wear a muzzle comfortably, just like a harness or collar!
