Behavior problems are the number one preventable cause of death in companion animals.  This outranks parvo, influenza, distemper, rabies and all other preventable diseases combined!

We at Lincoln Land Animal Clinic find this a travesty, and are taking steps to prevent behavior problems in pets.  We have implemented a no/low stress method for handling our patients during exams and procedures. The patient must come first, and if we need to sedate so that the animal does not become fearful and/or to reduce pain that is what we will do.

We start making the experience positive at the puppy and kittens first exam. We use lots of treats and get them used to handling.  We encourage owners to take part in training their pet to accept common husbandry practices such as nail trims, grooming, bathing, medicating and we provide our clients detailed instructions on training their pets to love their crates or pet taxis as well as routine pet care. 

Training both kittens and puppies starts right away- from proper use of a crate, house training (we prefer not to break pets but to train them to do what we would like them to do) and litter box training, to proper household manners. Our team helps to educate owners in the exam room and we make ourselves available for any questions someone might have to help any kind of behavior issue.

Most animal behavior issues are really communication problems- something we feel is inappropriate but in reality is quite appropriate in the canine or feline world. It is our job to help bridge that communication gap and teach you to "talk" to your pet.   

There are also some pets that really do have anxieties and issues that must be worked through, just like people.  While we do not have a couch to have your pet come in for therapy sessions, we do consult on what we need to do to help your pet settle and become more "balanced." We may use training techniques alone or use some medications with the training techniques. Training techniques are not just about obedience training, it is about manners and improving the relationship you have with your pet.

Behavior problems can range from anxiety and aggression to destructiveness and hyperactivity.  A behavior problem can be any behavior your pet displays that is undesirable to your lifestyle.  With the proper tools and communication, we can help you and your pet live in harmony.  

If during an exam we find that there are several behavior issues that we need to address we will have the owner set up another appointment so that those concerns can be addressed.  Behavior issues are very important to us, and a consult should not be something that is rushed. The pet determines the pace.  If you are reading this and would like a behavioral consult please see our forms section and fill out the behavioral questionnaire and drop it by prior to your consult.

We only use positive techniques that are not harmful to your dog, cat, horse or other animal. There is scientific evidence that proves positive teaching works. Please refer to the following links regarding dominance theory  and punishment.  

For more information on specific topics, please view the following articles:

Spa Day: Teach your pet to accept, even enjoy, bathing, brushing, and nail trims

Top 5 Things to Teach Your Dog: Tips to improve visits to the vet office 

Training & Behavior Products: Our favorite food puzzles to occupy mental energy and harnesses and leaders to assist training to walk on a loose leash

Behavior Toolkit: Step-by-step guide on how to teach desired behaviors

Nail Trims Shouldn't Be Scary: How and why to teach your pet to accept nail trims