Behavioral Medicine
Behavioral medicine focuses on the physical and emotional health of domestic animals so they can determine the cause of a behavioral problem.
Overview
Behavioral medicine focuses on the physical and emotional health of domestic animals so they can determine the cause of the behavioral problem and create a treatment plan to get you and your pet back onto a normal routine.
Why should I consider behavioral medicine for my pet?
The goal of behavioral medicine is to diagnose the physical or emotional condition and to enable the pet owner and pet to lead happier and safer lives. The types of conditions veterinary behavioral medicine treats are: fears and anxiety, aggression, bathroom accidents, compulsive or repetitive behaviors, cognitive dysfunction, basic manners, and socialization.
You should look out for any deviations from your pet’s normal behavior, including:
Sluggishness or tiredness
Aggression towards people or other animals
Chewing, biting, or scratching themselves or furniture
Excessive barking or meowing
Spraying or marking furniture
When should I consider behavioral medicine for my pet?
If your pet is behaving in an undesirable way or you believe your pet's behavior puts them or others at risk, then you should consider seeing a behavioral specialist.
How is my pet cared for during behavioral medicine therapy?
There are many types of behavioral therapy to treat your pets depending on what behavior they are displaying. This is done under strict supervision and they are given plenty of space. These protocols can help your pet become more comfortable when surrounded by other pets and humans.For more information, please contact us and we will help you understand and address your pet’s behaviors.
Knowing Your Pet
Pets can’t tell you something is wrong, so it’s important you are able to spot unusual shifts in mood or behavior. These changes are often a symptom of an underlying medical issue and could indicate more serious health problems.
Our experienced staff can determine the medical cause for your pet’s unusual behavior and work thoroughly to fix the problem, helping them return to their happy and loving selves. We counsel pet owners on the best ways to care for and train their pets to keep behavioral issues from returning. We’ll also get to know your pet, learning what’s normal for them and prioritizing their needs.
If you notice your pet acting abnormally you should schedule an appointment with Blue Ridge Veterinary Associates immediately. Call (540) 269-4656 or contact us online.
