Behavior FAQ
Why do I have to fill out such an extensive questionnaire? Why do you require medical records prior to an appointment?
Behavior problems can be quite complicated and in many instances, have medical components that may need to be addressed as well. Clients often comment after filling out the questionnaire it helped bring their pet’s behavior problem into perspective. Medical records may contain valuable information on previous or current health issues, which could contribute to our assessment of your pet's behavior problems. Dr. Florsheim will use this questionnaire as a jumping off point for discussion during the appointment.
Are you a substitute for my regular veterinarian?
Absolutely not. Our practice is limited so we can work with your veterinarian rather than in competition. We prefer to consult with your veterinarian on your animal’s care as well as send them updates and reports on how things are progressing.
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How long do consultations last? What happens during a consultation?
Consultation times vary based on the problems addressed but most consultations last between 90 to 120 minutes. During a typical consultation, we will go over your pet's history in detail, discuss possible medical factors that could be contributing to the problem, determine if there are any diagnostics needed, discuss your pet's diagnosis, prognosis and develop a treatment plan. Treatment plans include behavior management recommendations, modification recommendations and a discussion of ancillary options to support the behavior modification program, which could include nutrition recommendations, supplements, pheromones and medication.
Do you use medication to treat behavior problems?
While medication may be appropriate for some cases, it is never a requirement. In some cases, it may not even be an option. Medication decisions are made in collaboration with you after going over whether it is appropriate for your pet, the pros and cons of using medication, and which medication may be the most appropriate.
What species do you see?
While we primarily see dogs and cats, we will also consult on birds, exotics, and large animals on a case-by-case basis.
See what our behavior clients say about their pets’ treatment.