Behavioral Consultations in Pacific Grove, CA
Changes in your pet’s personality or ongoing behavior problems can be frustrating and worrying. At Pacific Grove Animal Hospital, we believe getting to the bottom of these problems is very important to the relationship between you and your pet. Behavior is one of the special interests of our owner and veterinarian, Dr. Brynie Kaplan Dau.
Understanding Pet Behavior Problems
Some behavior changes are caused by underlying health issues, while others are truly behavioral. A pet in pain or feeling unwell may act out, hide, or behave differently than usual. That’s why diagnostic testing may be recommended to determine whether there is a medical reason for the issue and to decide the next steps for care.
What to Expect From a Behavioral Consultation
We work with you to understand what’s going on and how to help.
Talking Through Your Concerns
We’ll ask about your pet’s behavior, when it started, and what changes you’ve noticed at home.
Ruling Out Medical Causes
Diagnostic testing may be recommended to find out whether a health problem is behind the behavior.
A Plan for Next Steps
Once we understand the cause, we’ll talk with you about the next steps for your pet’s care.
Prevention for Young Pets
We address common behavior issues in our kitten and puppy exams and offer advice to help prevent many frustrating problems during your pet’s developmental stages.
Why Addressing Behavior Matters
A Better Quality of Life
Preventing and treating behavior problems can improve the quality of life for both pets and the people who love them.
Finding Hidden Health Problems
A sudden change in behavior can be a sign that something is medically wrong. Looking into it helps make sure your pet gets the care they need.
A Stronger Bond
Resolving frustrating behaviors helps strengthen the relationship between you and your pet.
Signs Your Pet May Benefit From a Consultation
- A sudden change in personality or activity level
- New aggression, growling, or hissing
- House soiling or urinating outside the litter box
- Excessive barking, meowing, or other vocalizing
- Destructive behavior, such as chewing or scratching
- Hiding, fearfulness, or signs of anxiety
Help for Adult Pets, Too
Behavior problems aren’t limited to puppies and kittens. In adult dogs and cats, we can also help you solve many behavior issues.
Practice Highlights
- Behavior Is a Special Interest of Dr. Brynie Kaplan Dau
- In-House Diagnostic Laboratory to help look for medical causes
- Cat Friendly Practice® GOLD status from the AAFP
- Continuity of Care with the same doctor and long-term staff
Get Help With Your Pet’s Behavior
Please give us a call to find out more about how we can help your family with any behavioral concerns. Reach our team at (831) 318-0306. We are located at 1023 Austin Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950 and open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, including during the lunch hour.
Behavioral Consultations: Frequently Asked Questions
Could my pet’s behavior change be caused by a health problem?
It can be. Some personality changes and behavior problems are caused by underlying health issues. Diagnostic testing may be recommended to determine if there is a medical reason and to decide the next steps for care.
Do you help with puppy and kitten behavior?
Yes. We address common behavior issues during our kitten and puppy exams and offer advice to help prevent many frustrating behavior problems during your pet’s developmental stages.
Is it too late to help an adult pet with behavior problems?
No. In adult dogs and cats, we can also help you solve many behavior issues. Preventing and treating behavior problems can improve quality of life for both pets and their families.
Do you see cats for behavior concerns?
Yes. We see both cats and dogs for behavioral concerns. Pacific Grove Animal Hospital holds Cat Friendly Practice® GOLD status, and feline medicine and behavior are both special interests of Dr. Brynie Kaplan Dau.
How do I schedule a behavioral consultation?
Call Pacific Grove Animal Hospital at (831) 318-0306. We are located at 1023 Austin Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, and open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, including during the lunch hour.
Ready to book Behavioral Consultations?
Request a time online or give our front desk a call. New and returning patients are welcome.
