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Behavioral Counseling

Is unwanted behavior driving a wedge between you and your animal companion?

Pets act out in a number of ways, and many of their behaviors can be quite unpleasant. Whether it’s a simple house training issue or something more serious, like aggression, bad behavior can be stressful for everyone. In fact, it’s the number one reason why people relinquish their pets to shelters. At South Rhea Animal Hospital, we want to step in before it gets to that point. Our team is experienced in companion animal behavior and can provide the guidance you need to restore peace and balance back into your home.

Understanding the Problem

The key to overcoming behavior issues in animals is identifying the precise problem. First, we must examine your pet to rule out any potential medical causes. Many ailments have symptoms that can be easily mistaken for bad behavior. For instance, a cat that urinates outside the litter box may not be acting out, but actually be experiencing a health issue. We must eliminate this possibility before moving forward.

Once your best friend has been given a clean bill of health, the next step is pinpointing the true behavior we’re dealing with. This is critical because in many cases, a bigger problem may manifest itself in several smaller ways. For example, destructive behavior when left alone may actually be a symptom of separation anxiety. We will work with you and your pet to determine precisely what the situation is so we can address it most effectively.

Some of the behavior problems we can provide assistance with include:

  • House training
  • Excessive barking
  • Jumping
  • Digging
  • Biting
  • Destructive behavior
  • Aggression
  • Fear/anxiety

A Plan That Gets Results

With a correct diagnosis in hand, the next step is developing a strategy for overcoming the behavior problem once and for all. There are a number of different ways we can approach a behavior issue. Whether it’s positive reinforcement, rewards, training or something else, we’ll work with you to create a customized plan that gets results.

Don’t let unwanted behavior stand in the way of bonding with your animal friend. The team at South Rhea Animal Hospital can help you enjoy the loving, peaceful relationship you both deserve. Give us a call or schedule an appointment today to get started!

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Erin V profile picture
Erin V
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We absolutely love this vets office for our dogs. All of the staff are extremely knowledgeable, helpful and so nice. It is worth the 60 mile round trip to take our babies here. Knowing they are going to recieve the best care at am affordable price.
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Gina Torres profile picture
Gina Torres
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Your staff was very compassionate... understand...helpful...didn't rush me and my family and understood that we wanted to spend a little more time before Chopper's final procedure...very helpful when I brought my Chopper to be assisted to the rainbow bridge I love you all and Thank You for caring for Chopper through out the years and preparing Chopper to be taken to the cremation place... ❤️...
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A J profile picture
A J
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We got in right away, had blood work done with the results within a timely manor, we made our concerns known to the tech that relayed to the doctor exactly, and we felt comfortable with the treatment plan. Love the staff that love on our dogs.
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Christine Ralph profile picture
Christine Ralph
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Happy and caring people
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Donna Norwood profile picture
Donna Norwood
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Very caring and compassionate.
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Terry Coffel profile picture
Terry Coffel
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Outstanding. This Vet. Is above an beyond. Great people. They care about you and your pep.
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Cindy P.
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Friendly staff with good communication.