Veterinary Behaviour Consults

We’ll help get your fur family back on track

Having a pet is one of life’s greatest joys, but when a furry family member struggles with anxiety or behavioural issues, it can affect the whole household. Common challenges like separation anxiety, reactivity, fears, and hyperactivity can be stressful for both pets and their owners.

Treating anxiety is essential for your pet’s happiness and health. Left untreated, it can lead to destructive behaviours, withdrawal, or long-term health problems. Helping your pet feel calmer not only improves their well-being but also strengthens your bond and brings peace to your home.

At Advanced Vet Care, Dr Caitlin works with your family to create a simple, personalised plan to address your pet’s needs. Together, we’ll help your pet feel safe, confident, and happy, making life better for everyone.

Call to start the journey on 8552 7800

Start Your Behavioural Journey Today!

For just $125, let’s work together to help your pet feel happier and more relaxed. Book your 30-minute consultation now and take the first step toward a healthier, happier furry friend!

MEET DR CAITLIN

Our behavioural cases are taken care of by Dr Caitlin, our in-house Veterinary Behaviour Consultant. Whilst working in general veterinary practice in Sydney for 6 years, she discovered her passion lay in improving the mental health of Sydney’s pets. Wanting to learn as much as possible she undertook further training and qualified for her memberships in behavioural medicine in 2023.

Dr Caitlin uses a combination of medical treatments, positive reinforcement training and environment modifications to manage anxiety and overcome fears. You’re in good hands!

HOW IT WORKS

Begin with a 30-minute initial consultation with Dr Caitlin for $125. Should you choose to continue with the full behavioural package outlined below, a further $870 will apply.

Step 1 - Initial 30 Minute Behaviour Consultation $125

This is where we meet and greet. mental health is an extraordinarily complex issue, by completing the in-depth questionnaire prior to our appointment it frees up time to talk through your main concerns and make a comprehensive plan. We will send you a copy of the questionnaire once you have booked in your first behaviour consult with Dr Cailtin

If you decide to go ahead with booking the complete package a questionnaire will be sent out to you following the initial consultation. Veterinary behaviour is an extraordinarily complex field and by completing this questionnaire we can free up time during the second appointment to really work on your pet’s areas of concern.

During the second 90 minute appointment we will discuss your concerns in much greater detail, talk about the basics of pet psychology, and create a multifaceted modification plan. This may involve prescribing medication or performing further diagnostic tests.

After your pet’s assessment, you will be sent a comprehensive email outlining the plan you have created with Dr Caitlin. As we go through a lot of information in the consultation it provides a good overview of everything to refer back to.

You will have 2 further consultations with Dr Caitlin over the next 2 months to fine tune any medication and behavioural management plans. Assess your pet for any side effects or acknowledge any newly found triggers and concerns.

Common Behaviours We Treat

Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety affects approximately one in four dogs and one in ten cats. It can show up in various ways, causing significant stress for both pets and their owners.

Reactive Behaviours

Most aggressive animals are actually scared and resort to aggression as a last defense to protect themselves. We help you recognise early warning signs and work towards making your pet feel safe and at ease.

Fears & Phobias

Some pets develop fears and phobias, such as being scared of thunderstorms, fireworks, or even certain surfaces. These can be overwhelming and significantly impact their quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

A veterinary behaviourist is a qualified veterinarian with specialised training in animal behaviour. They diagnose and treat complex behavioural issues, sometimes using medication, and address underlying health or psychological problems.

A dog trainer focuses on teaching obedience, manners, and basic behaviours using training techniques. They generally don’t have the medical expertise to handle severe or complex behavioural problems.

In short, behaviourists manage complex behavioural and emotional issues, while trainers work on obedience and everyday manners.

Early intervention is so important in veterinary behaviour! The sooner you get help the easier it is to help your pet learn that the world is a safe and loving place. If you are at all concerned about a behaviour that your pet is showing, please come and ask us for advice. Early intervention leads to much better outcomes for everyone.

We advocate for positive reinforcement methods that encourage desired behaviours and build trust. Together, we can develop a personalised plan that takes into account your pet’s personality and specific issues. Avoiding punishment is essential as it can worsen anxiety or aggression.

Changes in behaviour can be confusing and difficult to manage for owners. Sudden behavioural changes are often linked to underlying health issues, stress or environmental factors. It’s important to rule out any medical problems first, then look at your pet’s environment and emotional wellbeing. We can help identify triggers and develop a personalised plan to address these behaviours safely and effectively.