Our pets live alongside us in our homes, and most of us think of them as small, furry humans. Despite our close connection, pets belong to another species with different communication methods and behavioral traits. Sometimes, a pet’s behavior clashes with our human expectations or becomes problematic for people and other pets in the home. 

Resolving behavior issues requires a thorough understanding of normal pet behavior. Our Westerville Veterinary Clinic team will begin with a complete physical exam and address any underlying health issues we find. Then, we will work closely with pet owners to find practical solutions for behavioral disorders. Good communication is the foundation for successful outcomes. Here, we provide tips for preparing for your pet’s veterinary visit and discussing behavioral concerns with our team.

The importance of addressing pet behavior issues

Behavioral issues in pets can stem from medical conditions, genetic predispositions, environmental factors, poor socialization, ongoing stress, or a combination. Ignoring behavior problems can delay the diagnosis of a health problem, damage your bond with your pet, and reduce quality of life for all household members. Our veterinarians are trained to recognize abnormal behaviors, diagnose underlying health conditions that might contribute to behavior changes, and develop treatment plans to address problem behaviors. We can also determine if or when your pet requires specialty treatment for complex behavioral disorders.

Preparing for your pet’s visit

Before your visit, we recommend that you gather as much detailed information about your pet’s behavior as possible. Consider these suggestions:

  • Keep a behavior log — Document the problem behavior in detail, including each incident’s time, frequency, duration, and context. 
  • Video the event — A video can help us determine the cause and rule out some medical issues, such as partial seizures.
  • Clarify health history — Our team must have a clear health history, especially if other veterinarians or specialists have seen your pet. Ensure the pet’s primary caregiver can attend the appointment rather than a spouse or child.

Communicating effectively during your pet’s visit

Effective communication with our team is key. Good communication ensures we understand the true scope of the problem, including how the behavior affects you, your pet, and the rest of the household. Here are a few tips to get the most out of your visit:

  • Be honest and specific — Provide a truthful account of your pet’s behavior and its impact on your daily life. Exact details can help ensure an accurate diagnosis.
  • Trust the team — Some pet owners worry that their pet’s behavior is a reflection of their caregiving or they fear being judged by the veterinary team. We understand behavior issues are multifactorial, and we’re here to help. 
  • Ask questions — Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you don’t understand or agree with our suggestions. Addressing behavior issues requires collaboration, and we want you to understand and feel comfortable with the plan.

What to do after your pet’s visit

You must fully commit to your pet’s treatment plan for the best results. After your visit, we recommend:

  • Sharing the plan with family — For behavior treatments to work, the whole household must be on board. 
  • Adhere to the plan — Administer medications, perform training exercises, and schedule follow-up visits as directed.
  • Monitor progress —Track your pet’s progress, including wins and setbacks, so we can adjust as needed. 

When to see a veterinary behavior specialist

We may refer you to a veterinary behaviorist for complex cases, or if your pet’s behavior is potentially dangerous. These specialists are experienced at treating serious disorders and can provide intensive treatment plans. They often partner with professional trainers in implementing a plan. 

Good communication between pet owners and our Westerville Veterinary Clinic team can help ensure effective behavioral condition management for your furry pal. If you have concerns about your pet’s behavioral or physical health, contact us to schedule a visit.