The discipline of animal behavior has only come into its own within the last five years. And just as human psychology continues to gain more mainstream respect and recognition, so, too, does the science of animal behavior.
As a veterinarian, I am sought out more often now for advice regarding the cat that is preying on human ankles or the dog that chews up the front door every time it’s left alone. Whether appropriate and normal or inappropriate and abnormal, many of our pets’ behaviors can be unacceptable. These behaviors can be unpleasant and sometimes even dangerous.
Such situations present a serious problem. You may be surprised to know that unacceptable behavior, and not disease, is the No. 1 killer of pets.
Sadly, 50 to 70 percent of animals taken to shelters are put to sleep by owners who can’t cope with their pet’s behavior problem. Private veterinary practices average a 15 percent patient loss for behavioral reasons.
Aggression, urine marking, soiling in the house and destruction of property are some examples of the type of behaviors that pet owners need help dealing with. Your veterinarian is the person to turn to for help and solutions.
Behavior changes in a pet may signal illness, and many medical conditions cause or contribute to behavior problems. Most often, however, behavior problems result from environmental factors – that is, the pet’s training and conditioning. The first step is a consultation appointment with the doctor, and a complete physical for your pet. Some basic lab tests may be need to be done.
Correcting behavior problems takes time. Knowledge and expertise by the doctor as well as a commitment of time, effort, and perhaps expense by the owner are essential.
