Take-home messages
Topics and methods discussed in these guidelines are not part of the traditional curriculum in many veterinary medical schools.
Topics and methods discussed in these guidelines are not part of the traditional curriculum in many veterinary medical schools.
All veterinary visits should include a behavioral assessment. Such assessments encourage the client to talk to the veterinarian regarding any concerns or questions they may have about their pet’s behavior and allow the staff to better meet the behavioral needs of their patients during and after the evaluation.
Working with a qualified trainer, the role of technicians and specialists in veterinary behavioral medicine.
Learning theory, operant conditioning, and classical Pavlovian conditioning are mature sciences and offer a wealth of information to veterinarians.
Medications commonly used to treat behavioral conditions in dogs and cats.
Common behavioral problems include aggression, elimination disorders, separation anxiety, noise phobia and cat-to-cat aggression.
All veterinary personnel should be able to use standardized behavior assessment tools and provide general guidance on managing canine and feline behavioral problems.
One study reported that 106 out of 135 canine patients (78.5%) were fearful on the examination table.
Veterinarians who understand that the examination experience can be stressful for their patients and who instead emphasize low-stress handling will increase their credibility with clients.