Comprehensive Behavior Evaluation
Step-by-step support for you and your dog.
We often hear from owners who feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or even guilty about their dog’s behavior. But we’re here to remind you: it’s not your fault, and you’re not alone.
Many behavioral challenges stem from your dog’s unique brain structure, not from a lack of training or effort. Our job at Engmann Veterinary Behavior Consulting is to help you understand your dog’s behavior in a new light, giving you the tools to work with them in a more effective, supportive way. Read more about our philosophy and process for developing personal behavior strategies here.
What to Expect from Our Behavior Consultations
Our behavior consultations take a detailed, multimodal approach, ensuring that we fully understand your dog’s behavior and provide an effective, customized treatment plan. Here’s what you can expect:
Your journey with us begins with a two-hour initial evaluation at our clinic. During this time, you’ll meet one-on-one with Dr. Cassie Engmann, who will conduct a thorough assessment of your dog’s behavior. This includes:
- A detailed history evaluation
- An in-depth interview with you and your family
- Observation of your dog’s behavior
Dr. Engmann will use this information to achieve a clear behavioral diagnosis. From there, she will create a tailored treatment plan using a multimodal approach that includes behavior modification protocols, owner education, training aids, and medication when necessary.
While additional appointments are optional, we highly recommend scheduling one or more progress appointments over the first year following the initial comprehensive evaluation. These 45-60 minute appointments are done via Zoom or in-person and provide an opportunity to review your dog’s progress, discuss behavior modifications, and adjust medications if applicable. These additional appointments also include another four months of email support. They are not included in the cost of the initial evaluation and come with an associated fee.
For many dogs, behavior modification is a long-term process. While some improvements may occur quickly, many behaviors take time to change. Because every dog is unique, adjustments to the treatment plan may be necessary as your dog progresses.
We recommend scheduling ongoing support appointments every 4-12 months, depending on your dog’s individual needs and response to treatment. These appointments provide continued guidance with an opportunity to have back-and-forth discussion about your dog’s progress. Adjustments to your dog’s treatment plan can then be made based on your dog’s progress, challenges, and changes to your household.
As part of our commitment to your dog’s success, we also offer Behavior Training sessions with our behavior trainer. These sessions are designed to improve communication between you and your dog and help them navigate everyday challenges by guiding you through implementation of the behavior modification strategies from your personalized treatment plan.
Please note that all additional appointments and training sessions come with an associated fee.
Your journey with us begins with a two-hour initial evaluation at our clinic. During this time, you’ll meet one-on-one with Dr. Cassie Engmann, who will conduct a thorough assessment of your dog’s behavior. This includes:
- A detailed history evaluation
- An in-depth interview with you and your family
- Observation of your dog’s behavior
Dr. Engmann will use this information to achieve a clear behavioral diagnosis. From there, she will create a tailored treatment plan using a multimodal approach that includes behavior modification protocols, owner education, training aids, and medication when necessary.
While additional appointments are optional, we highly recommend scheduling one or more progress appointments over the first year following the initial comprehensive evaluation. These 45-60 minute appointments are done via Zoom or in-person and provide an opportunity to review your dog’s progress, discuss behavior modifications, and adjust medications if applicable. These additional appointments also include another four months of email support. They are not included in the cost of the initial evaluation and come with an associated fee.
For many dogs, behavior modification is a long-term process. While some improvements may occur quickly, many behaviors take time to change. Because every dog is unique, adjustments to the treatment plan may be necessary as your dog progresses.
We recommend scheduling ongoing support appointments every 4-12 months, depending on your dog’s individual needs and response to treatment. These appointments provide continued guidance with an opportunity to have back-and-forth discussion about your dog’s progress. Adjustments to your dog’s treatment plan can then be made based on your dog’s progress, challenges, and changes to your household.
As part of our commitment to your dog’s success, we also offer Behavior Training sessions with our behavior trainer. These sessions are designed to improve communication between you and your dog and help them navigate everyday challenges by guiding you through implementation of the behavior modification strategies from your personalized treatment plan.
Please note that all additional appointments and training sessions come with an associated fee.
Additional Details
-
Initial Evaluations take place in-person at our clinic in Eden Prairie. Virtual initial consultations may be available for those with extenuating circumstances, such as distance to travel or safety issues.
-
Ongoing Appointments are virtual or in-person pending owner preference and the individual dog’s needs.
-
An in-person visit must occur every 12 months; this is legally required to maintain a Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR). Without this, Dr. Engmann cannot continue to prescribe any medications or provide advice for your dog.
- Rescheduling greater than 14 days prior to the appointment: The reservation fee carries over to the new appointment one time at no additional cost.
- Rescheduling within 14 days or for a second time: The reservation fee will be forfeited.
- Cancellations greater than 14 days before the appointment will result in a refund of the reservation fee minus a $50 preparation fee.
- Cancellations less than 14 days before the appointment will result in forfeiture of the entire reservation fee.
Set your pet up for success by bringing along a few specific items:
- You and your pet, plus other involved caregivers or family members
- Special equipment used for training or this behavior problem
- Favorite treats
- Favorite toy and/or a comfortable mat to lay on (optional)
- Any notes or records from previous trainers or behaviorists
We provide water dishes and beds, though many pets who are anxious will prefer their own.
We ask that clients fill out all necessary forms at least three weeks before their scheduled appointment. This helps us prepare and ensures we can make the most of our time together. Read our FAQ page to learn more.
-
Initial Evaluations take place in-person at our clinic in Eden Prairie. Virtual initial consultations may be available for those with extenuating circumstances, such as distance to travel or safety issues.
-
Ongoing Appointments are virtual or in-person pending owner preference and the individual dog’s needs.
-
An in-person visit must occur every 12 months; this is legally required to maintain a Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR). Without this, Dr. Engmann cannot continue to prescribe any medications or provide advice for your dog.
- Rescheduling greater than 14 days prior to the appointment: The reservation fee carries over to the new appointment one time at no additional cost.
- Rescheduling within 14 days or for a second time: The reservation fee will be forfeited.
- Cancellations greater than 14 days before the appointment will result in a refund of the reservation fee minus a $50 preparation fee.
- Cancellations less than 14 days before the appointment will result in forfeiture of the entire reservation fee.
Set your pet up for success by bringing along a few specific items:
- You and your pet, plus other involved caregivers or family members
- Special equipment used for training or this behavior problem
- Favorite treats
- Favorite toy and/or a comfortable mat to lay on (optional)
- Any notes or records from previous trainers or behaviorists
We provide water dishes and beds, though many pets who are anxious will prefer their own.
Your Commitment to the Process
Behavioral change takes time, dedication, and consistency. While we do everything in our power to provide the most effective treatment, success ultimately depends on your commitment to following through with the treatment plan. Every dog is different, and responses to behavioral management and medications vary. We’re here to support you every step of the way, but lasting change requires collaboration, patience, and the willingness to adjust as your dog progresses.
Let’s Get Started
When you’re ready to begin your journey with us, we’re ready to walk beside you. Together, we’ll work toward creating a calmer, happier life for you and your dog.
