Soraya V. Juarbe-Diaz, DVM, DACVB, CAAB
The Behavior Consultation
HOME
What Exactly is a Veterinary Behaviorist?
Is a Veterinary Behaviorist Like a Trainer?
What Problems Can Dr. JD Help With?
NEED AN APPOINTMENT?
NEW!!! FELINE HOUSE CALLS
What To Expect During A Behavior Appointment
FAQs
What owners have to say about Dr JD
About Dr. Juarbe-Diaz
Mai Tai's Story
Behavior research
Animal Fun Facts
Why Punishment Is Not Behavior Modification
Links to Cool Organizations
Can You Refer Me To A Good Trainer?
Gold Paws & News (1/12/11)

What to expect during the behavior consultation

The consultation begins with owners filling a comprehensive behavior questionnaire that Dr. JD reviews twice before she meets with the owners and the patient. An average of 40-45 minutes is devoted to preparation for each individual case. She will make a list of questions she will want more information on and another of problems, possible diagnoses, treatment options and the weaknesses and strengths of each suggestion she is thinking about.

The in-person behavior consultation usually lasts about 1 to 1 1/2 hours during which your pet's behavior will be observed and all the previous notes compared and fine-tuned with what she sees and discusses with you. The dynamics of your interactions with your pet will be examined from the point of view of the behavior that is normal for the species. A diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of your pet's behavior problem will be discussed with you. Behavior modification techniques may be demonstrated. If warranted, use of medication will be discussed. You will receive a written statement of the recommendations. Dr. Juarbe-Díaz will work in close cooperation with your veterinarian, who will receive a behavior consultation report. A prescription for medication may be given during the consultation, but your veterinarian will perform any follow-up diagnostic tests that are needed.

Follow-ups over the telephone or email are included with each consultation for 4 months after the initial visit, as long as they involve the original problem. After this time, a recheck exam is recommended.

Your pet will never be incited into displaying signs/symptoms of the mood disorder he or she suffers from. Given that most problems seen by Dr JD are due to faulty brain function, provoking an episode would be like triggering a seizure in someone who suffers from epilepsy or inducing a low sugar crash in a diabetic patient! Totally unnecessary and of no benefit to the patient!

Owners can provide, and are encouraged to bring to the consultation, a video recording of the behavior, if it can be obtained safely for both the pet and owner.

©2006-2011 Soraya V. Juarbe-Diaz, DVM, DACVB

Last updated on

affiliate_link