Pets, like people,
face emotional and behavioral challenges.
At Mt Airy Animal Hospital and Andorra Veterinary Clinic we offer compassionate and evidence based behavioral medicine services to address issues such as:
Anxiety and Fear-Based Behaviors
Includes separation anxiety, noise phobias, or fear of strangers and other animals. These pets often appear overly nervous, vocal, or destructive when overwhelmed or left alone.
Aggression
Can involve growling, snapping, or biting toward people or other animals is often linked to fear, pain, or resource guarding. Addressing the root cause early is essential for safety and well-being.
Compulsive Behaviors
Repetitive actions like excessive licking, tail chasing, pacing, or shadow chasing may signal underlying stress, neurological issues, or boredom and can become harmful over time.
House Soiling
Inappropriate urination or defecation in the home may be a medical, behavioral, or stress-related issue—not just a training problem.
These behaviors can stress pets and families. We aim to help
you understand your pet’s behavior and find a safe,
compassionate resolution.
Importance of
early intervention
Behavioral issues often worsen over time if not addressed.
Early intervention leads to better outcomes, fewer long-term problems, and a stronger bond between you and your pet.
If you notice any changes in your pet’s behavior—such as sudden aggression, excessive fear, or changes in bathroom habits—it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible.
By identifying underlying medical or environmental triggers early, we can prevent behaviors from becoming deeply ingrained and more difficult to treat.
Diagnosis, consultations, and individualized treatment plans
Training, meds if needed. Each pet is unique—and so are their behavioral needs. Our approach includes:
Thorough Behavioral and Medical Evaluation
We begin with a detailed consultation to review your pet’s medical history, daily routine, environment, and specific concerns.
Diagnosis and Behavior Assessment
We assess whether the behavior has a medical basis, a training issue, or is linked to emotional distress.
Tailored Treatment Plans
We develop an individualized treatment plan that may include:
- Behavior modification training
- Environmental changes
- Stress reduction strategies
- Nutritional support
- Prescription medications, if needed, to support behavior modification
We work closely with you every step of the way to ensure that your pet receives compassionate and consistent care, both in our hospital and at home.
Behavioral issues can be overwhelming, but they are treatable with the right support. Our team is here to provide expert guidance, practical solutions, and ongoing support to help your pet live a more balanced and joyful life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of behavior problems can you treat?
We treat a wide range of behavior issues in dogs and cats, including aggression, anxiety, excessive barking or meowing, house soiling, destructive behavior, compulsive habits, and fear-based behaviors. Our team can create customized plans for each pet, based on a thorough evaluation of their behavior, environment, and overall health.
When should I seek help for my pet’s behavior?
If your pet’s behavior is causing stress, safety concerns, or making daily life difficult, it’s a good idea to reach out. Support early on can make a big difference.
Can behavior problems be caused by medical issues?
Yes. Pain, illness, or neurological conditions can often trigger behavior changes. That’s why we always check for medical causes first.
Will my pet need medication?
Not always. In some cases, medication can help reduce anxiety or reactivity so your pet can better respond to training and behavior work.
How long does behavior treatment usually take?
It depends on your pet and the issue. Some pets improve quickly, while others need steady, long-term support. We’ll guide you every step of the way.
