Do I need a vet or a trainer?

Problem behaviours such as digging, jumping, barking and scratching furniture may be handled well by a trainer. Experienced and qualified trainers can manage and prevent many problem behaviours.

Understanding how animals learn, how to teach them, and how to teach you, are the core ingredients of effective and skilled training.

“If the only tool you have is a hammer, you tend to see every problem as a nail.” - Abraham Harold Maslow

More complex problems need expert help

Behavioural problems however, such as those related to anxiety and aggression, repetitive behaviours such as tail chasing and self-mutilation, dementia and elimination problems (toileting in inappropriate places) can be both mental and/or physical diseases which require expert help.

A Behaviour Veterinarian has the skills to diagnose psychological problems, develop an appropriate behaviour modification plan and prognosis and provide or manage drug therapy. Medical conditions which may be contributing to the behaviour can also be assessed and addressed accordingly.

Is this an urgent problem?

For vets and owners who are in need of urgent attention, in times when I cannot provide it, I can offer the assistance of abadog, a service which provides quick front-line advice. A questionnaire is completed by the owner and they will promptly receive a full behaviour report plus excellent behaviour modification advice. A report is also shared with the vet. The vet and client can then review this and decide if referral to me is required or what the next steps will be. All I need to assist with this process is the client's email and pet's name to get this into action. Cost is under $50. Email me at admin@katrinaward.com.au