There can be significant differences in the background, training and expertise of those providing behavioural advice. The veterinary psychiatrist/behaviourist must first be a graduate of an accredited veterinary college. A veterinary degree ensures a comprehensive background in anatomy, neurology, physiology, medicine, and pharmacology, as well as any medical problems that might affect the behaviour of your pet. Following the completion of a veterinary degree, a one-year internship in all species must take place. The next step is a residency program that can take three to five years. The veterinary psychiatrist must also receive training in normal species typical behaviour, comparative animal behaviour, the principles of learning and behaviour modification, psychology, abnormal behaviour, psychopharmacology and the effects of disease on behaviour, and must work for at least three years seeing cases under the mentorship of a board-certified behaviourist.
Publications, presentations to other veterinarians, case histories and an extensive four-part examination are all then required to achieve board certification (seewww.dacvb.organdwww.ecawbm.comfor details). It takes approximately 12 years of postsecondary education to achieve the level of a veterinary psychiatrist. In short, the veterinary psychiatrist has a unique combination of education and training, clinical expertise and medical knowledge to be able to diagnose and design a treatment program for your pet’s behaviour problem.
Only Veterinary psychiatrists can legally diagnose behaviour problems, assess medical complications, and prescribe medications. If you received advice from a non-veterinary animal behaviourist about the use of medications, keep in mind that they are engaging in veterinary practice without a license. Not only it is illegal, but it is also potentially dangerous.
These are individuals who have a Master’s or Ph.D. degree in animal behaviour. They are not veterinarians. A certified applied animal behaviourist must take courses in psychology, biology, animal behaviour and behavioural ecology, and pass the certification program for theAnimal Behavior Society.
It is difficult to say. These terms require no specific education or qualification. The terms ‘Veterinary’ or Certified Applied Animal’ (see above) require formal education. Anyone, even individuals without any formal qualification or training can refer to themselves as “animal behaviourist” or “behaviour specialist” and make claims about knowledge and expertise.
A dog trainer works on changing basic obedience or teaching new behaviours. For example, following commands such as sit, stay, come, or shake a paw.
A veterinary psychiatrist addresses motivations, emotions, and pathological conditions such as anxiety, fear and panic, and compulsions.
Anyone can refer to themselves as a “dog trainer"; no formal training or education is required to do so. There are, however, voluntary certification programs that individuals may pursue. Dog trainers who take these programs generally demonstrate a higher level of knowledge and experience than those who do not. There are excellent dog trainers that we can help you choose from if your pet’s problem is training-related.
No. We recommend against sending dogs to these facilities for several reasons.
First, you are not there to see what is happening. The training may include punishment or negative-based techniques. Unfortunately, this is more common than you think.
Second, your dog may not show the same behaviour in a different environment, with different people, when you are not present. Most problems are associated with specific triggers (people, environment, other animals, and you) that are not likely to be present in “boot camps”.
Third, training, even with a highly-skilled, positive-based trainer is not likely to solve your pet’s problem when other measures are not in place.
Finally, it is you, not the trainer (even a very competent one), that must work with your dog, in your home environment. Sending your dog for training by someone else, in a different facility, rarely translates into real-life when your dog returns home.
You may have heard the terms “behaviour modification” and “training” used interchangeably, but they are not the same.
With training, you are changing basic learned behaviours or teach a new behaviour. For example, you may train your dog to sit, come, or stay.
Behaviour modification - changing the way your pet feels and behaves – is based on learning principles, restoring normal behaviour patterns, and reducing arousal.
Behaviour modification may include training, but it also includes environmental changes, routine changes, and the way you, and other people approach and interact with your pet. Medications may also be a part of behaviour modification. When discussing behaviour modification as part of the treatment plan, we do that in simple and practical terms that are easy to follow and implement.
Training is part of what we do. Many dogs that come to us are well trained. In most cases, even a well-trained dog cannot respond appropriately when presented with triggers that elicit the problem. Even dogs who are not well trained can improve when you apply our treatment plan. Our initial consultation aims to assess your pet, the problem, and the needs to solve it. We do not do much training during this consultation.
When necessary, we suggest basic obedience training. We only need a few primary signals that you can use with your pet. We also recommend training cats when it may be useful. We can demonstrate and go with you over the needed training. Moreover, we have qualified veterinary technicians that can work with you, in your home (depending on where you live), and help you through implementing the training and behaviour modification. It may be challenging to implement behaviour modification if you have never attempted it. It is not uncommon for owners to seek more hands-on help when they reach this stage. We are happy to help.
If you are not working with a trainer currently, please do not hire one until you talk to us. We want to ensure you are hiring the right person for you and your pet. Not all trainers are truly qualified; see below. If you are working with a trainer, please let us know that we can review your current training and make suggestions so your trainer can be part of the treatment plan.
Positive training methods teach your pet what to do and increase their desire to keep doing it. You will learn how to encourage your pet to repeat those desirable behaviours instead of engaging in undesired behaviours. We often use reward-based methods as part of the treatment plan. Rewards provide your pet with something they want once your pet showed the desired behaviour. Not only it encourages your pet to repeat the behaviour, but it also changes its mood towards being more positive, calm, and engaged.
Negative training methods are based on punishment and aversive tools, e.g. choke or prong collars. The outcome of these methods is fear, anxiety, increasing distance from the person who is training the pet and may lead to aggression. After all, when you use these techniques you cause pain and discomfort to your pet. These techniques do not teach your pet what to do. They discourage your pet from showing any behaviour by making it afraid of the consequences. While your pet may stop showing undesired behaviour, it will be due to fear, anxiety, and pain. When you hear or read about training techniques and notice words like “corrective”, “packleader”, “alpha role”, or “nature’s template”, we advise you to be very cautious. These are just some of the phrases used when applying negative training methods. At NTVBSC, we are against the use of any negative training methods. Ample research evidence proves that they are not efficient in addressing undesired behaviours and damage the owner per relationship.
We use evidence-based, scientific methods to improve your pet’s condition.
First, we rule out any physical pathology (e.g. pain, gastrointestinal disease, neurological abnormalities).
Next, we look at normal behavioural patterns, such us eating, sleeping, and interaction with the environment.
Finally, we address the presenting problematic behaviour. We use positive methods that are non confrontational to address the problem.
We tailor a mixture of behaviour modification, training, relaxation and settle exercises, arousal reducing techniques, and environmental and routine changes. Each pet and owner are individuals, and we aim to work with you and your pet to improve the situation, not discourage any behaviours or activities that are positive and enjoyable to you and your pet.
When using positive based training to teach your pet the desired behaviour and encourage it to continue, we choose a reward that motivates your pet. While it is true that food (including treats) is highly motivating for most pets, it is not the only available reward. Some pets are motivated by toys, play, affection, or praises. Together, we identify what would work best for your pet in different situations.
In bite cases, the first step we take is risk analysis. We approach each pet and owner individually, reviewing all the details and circumstances specific to their situation.
To be able to help you, we ask that you provide us with as much information as possible (all information is confidential).
Next, we identify ways that help you reduce the risk through prevention and management.
Successful management is possible in most cases. Therefore, recommending euthanasia is very uncommon.
Behaviour modification, environmental and routine changes, and training often suffice to address your pet’s behavioural problem. However, there are also many cases when the pet will not improve without the use of medication. We never rely on medication alone as the course of treatment; it is always an integral part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Medication can be particularly beneficial in cases of anxiety, fear and phobias, high arousal and impulsivity, compulsive behaviours, and brain pathologies. Medication can improve your pet’s life quality and welfare, so both your pet and you can enjoy your life together.
During the consultation, we will discuss the benefits, potential side effects, expectations, and any reservations you my have regarding medication use.
The younger the pet is at the onset of the behavioural problem, the worse it may get. This is especially true when dealing with cases of anxiety, fear, and aggression.
Pets try to avoid situations that cause these emotions or negative outcomes, and continuous or frequent exposure may further sensitize them. Sensitization means that your pet’s reaction will escalate even if the trigger is minimal.
Prompt intervention is the key to successful management.
Absolutely! It is never too late. It is true that in some cases the longer the behavioural problem is present, the more difficult it may be to manage it. Nevertheless, the duration of the problem is not the only, or the most important factor influencing our ability to manage the problem successfully.
Veterinary psychiatry is a more comprehensive approach. Once we review what was done so far, how your pet responded, and the current situation, we can formulate a treatment plan with you. We may suggest a few changes to the previous program or design a completely different one.
At times, the previous program was good but the implementation was inconsistent or lacking due to various reasons. We can help you develop a strategy that suits your individual needs, time, and circumstances.
We use evidence-based techniques and tools to implement your treatment plan. In veterinary psychiatry, we evaluate not only the problem but also rule out pathological conditions, both physical and mental, that contribute to your pet’s behaviour. Moreover, we assess your pet’s normal behaviour patterns and restore them if necessary.
Finally, we can offer medications if needed.
Although we receive many referrals from veterinarians, you can contact us directly to request a consultation.
We do require your veterinarian to fill out a referral form; however, this can be arranged once you have booked your appointment.
The regulations of the Ontario Veterinary Act prevent us from advertising our prices online. We follow the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association fee guide to set our service prices. Our product prices depend on the prices of the product distributor.
While dogs and cats are our most common patients, we also see birds, rabbits, ferrets, and other exotics and small mammals.
Dogs' behaviour problems: we offer management for problems such as fear and anxiety, noise phobias, separation distress, sleep disorders, house-soiling, repetitive and compulsive disorders, and aggression.
Cats' behaviour problems: we offer management for problems such as house-soiling, urine marking, aggression, fearful behaviour (avoidance), eating disorders (such as excessive sucking or chewing) and repetitive or compulsive behaviours.
New Introductions: these consultations include bringing home a baby, introducing pets to other pets, and moving. This consultation is approximately 60 minutes and will help you with the transition and preparation or prevention of potential problems.
New pet consultations: if you are obtaining a puppy or kitten or are a first-time pet owner, we offer a "new pet" consultation of approximately 60 minutes. We provide you with behavioural guidance on problem prevention, setting up to succeed, reward-based training and how to deal with emerging problems such as house-soiling, destruction, stealing, and play biting. If you are considering obtaining a new dog, we offer a 60 minutes selection consultation to help you choose a pet that is appropriate for your needs (breed, age, sex, source) as well as advice on preventing and dealing with common behaviour problems. We ask that you narrow your choice to up to 5 breeds before the visit.
Senior pet behaviour problems: a variety of behaviour problems may begin to emerge as your pet reaches its senior or geriatric years. Common signs range from decreased awareness and disorientation to repetitive activities, anxiety and night waking. Assessment, diagnostic and treatment advice for these cases generally takes 60 minutes.
Life-ending decisions: it is sometimes difficult to know if this is the time to say goodbye to our friends. If you are not sure about your pet's quality of life and what to do, we may be able to offer advice. Having a professional and objective view of your situation may help.
Yes. Dr. Denenberg has served as an expert witness and was involved with many cases that required an expert opinion in a wide range of situations including canine aggression, risk analysis, breed-specific legislation, and more.
Acute pain, neurological, internal, or dermatological abnormalities may all lead to sudden changes in your pet’s behaviour. True emergencies must be first addressed by your veterinarian to rule out any physical pathology that leads to behaviour changes.
We are happy to try and find an appointment for you as quickly as possible. If scheduling an urgent appointment requires us to reschedule an already booked appointment, an additional fee may be incurred.
First, be prepared to spend two to three hours at the consultation. You should bring the collar or harness, and leash that you normally use when walking your dog.
When coming with a cat, ensure your cat is in a secure carrier until inside the consulting room.
Please bring any accessories or tools you use with your pet. These may include a muzzle, clicker, favourite toys, and a body wrap. You may also bring your pet’s bed with you.
Lastly, while we have many types of treats available, it helps to have your pet’s favourite treats at hand.
Videos and photos can be valuable in that they allow us to observe your pet’s behaviour in the environment(s) where the behaviour is likely to occur. However, please refrain from trying to capture the behaviour if doing so may put you, your pet(s), or anybody else, at risk.
We do not have to see the problem behaviour in order to be able to address it.
You, your pet, and other family members or people involved with your pet (e.g., your trainer or dog walker). We have room for up to four people in the consultation room.
If you have other pets at home that are directly linked to the problem, you may bring them with you as well (regarding your other pets attending the consultation, please refer to the information below).
Our consultation fees are based on a presenting problem, not the number of pets. That is, if you have two dogs or two cats that fight with each other, we only charge one consultation fee.
However, if you have two pets with two different problems (e.g., one with aggression, the other one with noise phobia), it would require two separate consultations and you would be charged for two cases.
To ensure safety in cases of inter- pet aggression, please refer to the next question.
Bringing your other pets may help us evaluate the relationship between them and the pet you wish to evaluate. You should bring both your pets at the same time only if it is safe to do so.
If you suspect your pets might fight during your travel to the clinic, or during the consultation, you should leave one of them at home.
If necessary, use muzzles, leashes, and carriers to ensure safety.
Please note that due to the regulations of the College of Veterinarians of Ontario, we can only provide a treatment plan or prescribe medications for a pet we saw during the consultation.
Please let us know in advance if you are concerned.
Often, we ask owners to leave their pet in the car for a few minutes while registering at the reception. Then you can bring your pet directly into the consultation room. We can let you in through our back entrance to avoid the crowded reception area.
In fair weather, you may take your dog for a short walk in the park near the clinic.
The consultation is divided into several parts including assessment, diagnosis, and designing a treatment plan.
Each part requires time to evaluate the information and discuss it with you. Some problems require more time than others as the problem, or the circumstances might be more complicated.
You are welcome to take notes during the consultation. However, we will provide you with a detailed report following the consultation. We also send your veterinarian a summary of the consultation.
Many factors come into play when assessing, diagnosing and managing behaviour problems. These include the problem itself and your pet, you and other people and animals involved, the environment, and any previous attempts to address the problem. To help you, we need to gather this information and assess it. Not all of it can be collected during the appointment as it would be unnecessarily time consuming. Therefore, we review this questionnaire before your appointment, so we are better prepared to help you.
During the initial visit, we ask you to embark on a new or different path. These changes require time and adjustments. Follow-up appointments are necessary to evaluate the implementation of the treatment plan, and the progress of your pet. We also assess how the medication (if prescribed) affects your pet. Follow-up appointments are scheduled as needed, based on the problem, the type of treatment, risk factors, and prescribed medications.
Managing behaviour problems requires your time and commitment. However, even with as little as 15-30 minutes daily you can see improvement. In most cases the time you will need to spend with your pet working to solve the problem can be spread throughout the day. Of course, the more time you can dedicate to working with your pet the faster you will see results. Behaviour modification takes time and preparation. Training can take a few minutes each day and can be a part of your regular routine with your pet.
If you are registered with us as an existing owner, we can help you. It also depends on the type of medication your pet is on. If your pet is on a veterinary approved medication, you must obtain it through your veterinarian or us.
If your pet is on a generic product, you might be able to get it through your local pharmacy.
Some pets receive a compounded medication (made especially for your pet). Your veterinarian or we can get it for you, or you can get the medication from a compounding pharmacy. To obtain any medication (generic or compounded) from the pharmacy, you will need a written prescription.
Most prescription refills require 72 hours (three days) notice. In many cases, we can email you a prescription. If your pharmacy requires a hardcopy (for controlled substances for example), we can mail one for you. Please note that there is a charge for postage. We can also send the medication directly to you for an additional fee. Urgent prescriptions requests (less than 72 hours) may incur an additional processing fee. If you require us to call your pharmacy for a refill, a service charge will apply.
If your pet takes the medication daily, it is essential that you do not stop it abruptly. Side effects and withdrawal effect may occur. These depend on the medication, and how long your pet was receiving it. Please make sure to contact us on time to ensure your pet receives the medication without any interruptions.
There are four components to a behaviour consultation.
1. Diagnosis: to explain why your pet might be exhibiting his or her problem(s), we must first determine the cause as well as any factors that might be reinforcing or aggravating the situation. Our diagnosis will be based on the information you provide in your questionnaire, the information you provide at the visit, and observation of your pet’s behaviour at our clinic. We also advise that, whenever possible, you capture videos of the problem so that we can best assess the pet's actions as well as your interactions. If an underlying medical problem exists, additional diagnostic tests may be recommended.
2. Risk assessment: the next step is to determine the different risks involved in each case. These risks exist in cases of aggression and in many other cases. These risks include risks for the pet, you, and other people and animals. We also try determining the risk of implementing different steps of the management plan or leaving the situation as it is. Unfortunately, many pets are euthanized or relinquished due to behaviour problems. We consider this factor in our risk assessment.
3. Treatment plan: next, we will help you implement a treatment program suited to your pet and your household. Often by achieving a better understanding of canine and feline behaviour and how pets learn, you will be able to understand better how to manage the problem. A treatment program generally involves behaviour modification techniques based primarily on positive reinforcement and shaping (i.e. what to do and what not to do) and environmental management (i.e. adjustments to your environment to better manage the situation). We might also suggest using products such as a head halter, body harness or clicker to help modify your pet’s behaviour, or in some cases, medications, pheromones, or other natural products. Following your appointment, we will provide you and your veterinarian with a complete behavioural and environmental management program.
4. Follow-up: the final aspect of the consultation is the follow-up on the case so that we help to guide you through the program and monitor the pet’s response. Email support for minor adjustments or modifications to the initial program will also be available for the first two months following your visit. If a follow-up in-person visit is required, we will schedule a 50-minute follow-up visit. Our staff can also meet with you and provide you with hands-on help to implement training and behaviour modification. If you are working with a trainer to assist and guide you in the implementation of the program, we can help guide you in the selection of an appropriate trainer and, with your permission, will communicate our findings and suggestions.
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