Specialists in veterinary behavioral medicine have both the medical and behavioral knowledge to evaluate cases to determine if there is a medical component. Additionally, specialists determine which medication(s), if any, would be most appropriate as part of an integrated treatment program that includes behavioral modification plans appropriate to the individual patient. Specialists in veterinary behavioral medicine have the skills and knowledge to take detailed behavioral and medical histories, weed out irrelevant information, and base the treatment plan on the pertinent behavioral and medical information. This ability to take a good history and to ascertain relevant facts is essential and is often overlooked as a necessary skill when working with behavior problems. To Find a Board Certified Behaviorist, click here.

 

How does someone become a Veterinary Behaviorist?

Veterinary Behaviorists are licensed veterinarians who have graduated from a recognized college of veterinary medicine and completed at least one year of internship or primary care practice. They have also undergone additional behavior-specific training which includes at least 3 years of case supervision by an established Diplomate, conducting original behavior research which earns publication in a peer reviewed journal, authored 3 formal case reports that were approved by a review committee of Diplomates, and passed a rigorous 2-day Board Examination.

As part of this program they have studied topics including: sociobiology, psychology of learning, behavioral genetics, behavioral physiology, psychopharmacology, ethology, and behavioral endocrinology.

All standards and procedures of ACVB are approved by the American Board of Veterinary Specialties (ABVS) which is an organization within the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Professional conduct standards are set by both the AVMA and the ABVS, as are requirements for training programs. Specialists in veterinary behavioral medicine are also held accountable to local and state laws of veterinary practice.

 

Why is behavioral medicine important?

Behavioral problems are a leading cause of relinquishment of dogs and cats to animal shelters in the United States. While animals with behavioral problems often are considered to “misbehave”, they may have a physical cause for the problem, be responding to inconsistent interactions with the people around them, and/or have had a poor upbringing. Behavioral problems are complex and can have many causes; and it takes a concerted effort under the guidance of a trained professional to bring about change. Behavioral medicine requires a broad knowledge of the physical and emotional health of animals, as well as the knowledge of how to help clients implement the prescribed treatment plan.

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What Kind of behavioral problems are treated by a Veterinary Behaviorist?

Veterinary behaviorists are trained to treat behavioral problems in all types of animals, from dogs and cats to horses and birds. Below are some examples of the problems that are best evaluated and treated by a Veterinary Behaviorist.

Aggression Toward People
Aggression is a complex problem, and there are many different reasons why an animal may display aggressive behavior. Additionally, it can be a sign of an underlying physical problem.

If aggression is mismanaged, or if help is not sought early on in the progression of the problem, it often worsens. Because the potential consequences and liability are so serious, it is recommended that you get professional help from a Veterinary Behaviorist for any animal displaying aggressive behaviors.

Aggression Toward Other Animals
This problem is common in animals, and can be due to various causes. Aggressive behavior can lead to big problems for owners and animals alike. In order to prevent serious consequences, it is imperative to seek help before the behavior progresses.

Anxiety
Anxiety, fears and phobias are considered common primary or underlying causes of many behavioral conditions. For example, it is estimated that 17% of dogs suffer from separation anxiety, a primary anxiety related condition. Noise or storm phobias are also common primary phobias. Other behaviors such as aggression or compulsive disorders may be secondary to an underlying anxiety or fear. Additionally, stress or anxiety can aggravate certain medical conditions. When animals suffer from anxiety it is critical to seek help from a Veterinary Behaviorists as they have the ability to prescribe medications, if indicated, in combination with behavioral modification.

Urine Marking and Inappropriate Elimination
Urine marking is often related to stressors in a pet’s household. Attempting to resolve this problem may require help from a Veterinary Behaviorist, who will take the entire situation into consideration, and can prescribe specific behavior modification techniques, with or without medication. In regards to other types of inappropriate elimination in pets, the many possible causes of these problems are most appropriately diagnosed by a Veterinary Behaviorist.

Other Problem Behaviors
Other behavior problems that are treated by Veterinary Behaviorists include, but are not limited to, excessive barking, phobias, eating of non-food objects, over grooming, excessive vocalization, and repetitive behaviors (such as those due to an underlying obsessive-compulsive disorder).