Behavior consultation
Many dogs struggle with serious or potentially serious behavior problems, damaging the bond between the pet and their owners. Engmann Veterinary Behavior Consulting offers 2-hour behavioral consultations where we will discuss in-depth your concerns, potential underlying causes, and strategies to obtain a good quality of life for both you and your dog.
Behavioral problems are best helped through a combination approach of management (safety and environment), behavior modification (reward-based), and medication when needed.
What to expect
Dr. Engmann will discuss the diagnosis and prognosis, as well as safety, management, and behavior modification. In some cases, she may recommend anti-anxiety medication in addition to the behavior modification plan. Any medical problems that may be contributing to your pet’s behavior problem also will be discussed.
After the consultation, you will receive a detailed, written summary of everything discussed. This document will serve as a valuable reference for you and your primary care veterinarian. Additionally, a copy of the summary will be sent to your primary care veterinarian, allowing them to stay informed and collaborate effectively in your pet's care.
Throughout the entire process, Dr. Engmann will provide a friendly and supportive environment, ensuring that you feel comfortable and well-informed about your pet's behavioral journey. Her goal is to improve your pet's quality of life and strengthen the bond between you and your furry companion.
Preparing for the consultation
- We request that you complete a behavior history form 72 hours prior to your consultation. Also, please ask your veterinarian to send your pet’s full medical record in advance. This is essential so that Dr. Engmann can review ALL of your pet’s relevant information prior to your consultation.
- Let us know if you are not certain whether a particular pet and/or person should attend the consultation. Once Dr. Engmann has reviewed your completed behavioral history form, she will be able to advise you.
- You are encouraged to send photos of your home environment. Please include video recordings of interactions and behaviors that you would like Dr. Engmann to see directly. Short video recordings can be sent by sharing a Dropbox file.
NOTE: Do NOT put yourself, your pet, or other people/animals at risk to capture a picture and/or video recording of the undesirable behavior.
What to have at the consultation
- You and your pet
- Special equipment that you use for training and/or the behavior problem
- Favorite treats
- Favorite toy and a comfortable mat (not required)
- Any written training plans/notes from previous trainers or behaviorists
Who should attend
Please consider having the members of your household present who directly interact with your dog so that they can hear Dr. Engmann’s diagnosis and recommendations and ask any questions.
As the initial consultation lasts 2 hours, young children may not be able to sit through the consultation.
After the visit
Follow-up communication is critical to a successful outcome!
Behavior problems tend to be very complex. In most cases progress takes time and there are no quick simple solutions. Follow up communications and consultations are strongly recommended to review your pet’s progress and ensure you are satisfied with the progress being made.
The degree of progress is variable and is a combination of the individual pet, how long the problem has been occurring, and quite possibly most importantly, the commitment of the owner/family to the treatment plan.
