Specialty Center: Pet Behavior

Jeff Nichol, DVM
Resident in Veterinary Behavior Medicine

Pets and their people can struggle with deeply frustrating, and in some cases, dangerous behavior disorders.  Recent advancements in behavior modification and medication have enabled significant improvements in pets with serious problems.  Many abnormal behaviors are a direct result of physical diseases.  Skills in behavior management, as well as general medicine, are a big advantage for pets treated by a veterinary behavior practitioner.  Behavior work is rewarding but it is often challenging.

Behavior symptoms requiring veterinary care:

• Aggression toward humans or other animals
• House soiling
• Destructive behavior
• Anxiety and fear
• Geriatric pets who house-soil, become dull/consumed/agitated, interact less, and sleep more
• Pacing, circling, sky gazing, chasing shadows, and eating non-food items including stool
• Licking, chewing, and self-inflicting wounds
• Unruly behaviors: mouthing, nipping, jumping up, escaping, and excessive barking/yowling/crying
• Noise phobias: fireworks, thunderstorms, and hot air balloons

Behavior consultation services include:

• Pre-consultation review of a detailed per owner questionnaire
• Two hour in-depth consultation and thorough evaluation of the pet
• Full explanation of the behavioral diagnosis
• Custom-tailored behavior modification plan
• Medications prescribed as needed
• Detailed written instructions
• Full written report to the referring veterinarian
• Follow-up consultations for pet and owner as needed

To refer a patient for animal behavior services or to learn more about veterinary pet behavior, please visit www.drjeffnichol.com.