Frequently Asked Questions

1. Please fill out and return the behavioral history form (found on the forms page) for your pet within 72 hours before the appointment. This is incredibly important as it expedites the appointment and allows us to give you the best care possible during your appointment time. 

2. Please have all medical history, including any medications your pet may be, sent to us 72 hours prior. We also encourage bringing a copy just in case. 

3. Depending on the behavioral case, there may be a certain person that should attend the session. Once material has been reviewed, we will let you know. 

4. We encourage photographs of your home environment and videos of the concerning behaviors sent before hand as well to the email listed in contacts, as long as they can be taken safely. YOU SHOULD NEVER PLACE YOUR PET, YOURSELF, OR ANOTHER PERSON IN DANGER TO GET THESE VIDOES OR PHOTOGRAPHS. 

5. While blood work is not required, it is HIGHLY recommended. Please ensure recent blood work (within the last 3 months) is included in the medical history sent to us. 

Through the course of the appointment, Dr. Hilliard will go over the history form in depth with you. They will observe your pet closely in the room which will help to further determine what behavioral issues could be going on. Certain behavioral tests may be performed but only if they can be done safely. We will never place your pet in a scary or dangerous situation! Using the observations noted, in addition to taking your pet's medical history into account, a cause of the behavior will be given and a long term prognosis will be noted. Things that we hope to improve vs. those behaviors that may be hard to change will be reviewed. An in depth treatment plan including behavioral and environmental modification, in addition to possible medication recommended will be given.

While there are many great trainers out there, veterinary behaviorists have extensive training both in veterinary school and through real world cases in a residency program. The training that a vet behaviorist receives focuses on addressing the physiological and psychological causes of behavior and techniques used to modify and change behavior. They are thoroughly trained both in addressing behavioral concerns with behavioral modification and medication, if needed.  

A vet behaviorist has years of schooling and a medical degree that allow them to provide a comprehensive approach to behavioral wellness. Unlike trainers, vet behaviorists can order medical tests to help diagnose behavior problems and prescribe medications to help address problem behaviors. 

To become a veterinary behaviorist, we go through the following process: 

1. Obtain a veterinary degree from an accredited veterinary school, a program that covers both physical and behavioral diseases across various species.

2. Complete either a 1 year internship or have multiple years of experience in general practice post graduation. 

3. Complete a residency in veterinary behavior, lasting between two to five years, focusing on animal welfare, behavior, and the understanding of medications on the brain.

4. Author and publish a research paper in a respected, peer-reviewed scientific journal.

5. Successfully pass an extensive two-day written examination.

6. Commit to a goal of continuing education in the field to better ourselves.  

A common misconception is that veterinary behaviorists always go to the use of medication. While it can be extremely helpful in certain situations, medication is never recommended lightly. When we do recommend medication, it is in the best interest of the pet for progress with their behavioral struggles. 

The goal of medications is never to sedate but to change the brain positively, so that your pet feels less anxious and can live a happier life. Medication can also help a pet become more receptive to training, when previously they were too stressed to be able to learn.  

In some cases, medication alone is not sufficient to provide the results your pet needs to life a stress free life. Behavior modification programming, training and lifestyle adjustments often needs to be used in conjunction with medication for optimal results. 

While side effects can happen with any medication, they are rare and if any issues occur, we will work closely to address any concerns you may have. 

A referral is not required but we highly recommend that you have all your veterinary records sent ahead of time to our email address so we can review them. We highly recommend your pet has had recent bloodwork performed (within the last 3 months.)

Depending on the behavioral concerns, most initial consultations last around 2 hours. This allows for a thorough understanding of your pet's history, evaluation of what could be going on, and a treatment plan. Rechecks will be scheduled as needed, usually around 4-6 weeks after the consult. 

Appointments are required. To schedule your appointment, simply use our contact form or drop us an email. We're here to make the process easy and accessible for you and your pet.