Most people simply require their pet to be well behaved, living sociably and peacefully as part of a family. However, sometimes the communication between owners and pet can break down, leading to many different difficulties. These might range from simple training problems such as not coming when called or pulling on the lead or to more serious problems such as nervousness or aggression.
I use a psychological approach to determine the motivation of the individual difficulties, rather than simply treating the symptoms. By meeting the family, discussing your pet's daily routine and habits and also by observing the behaviour during the consultation I am able to make an accurate assessment. A behaviour modification programme can be formulated, using kind and practical methods, which will be adapted to the family's lifestyle.
It is, however, important to remember that all animals are individuals. They each have their own personality traits, not un-similar to us and are constantly influenced by a huge variety of factors. This includes the environment, and the actions and reactions of those around them. This means that for many pets, especially those with well-established behaviour problems, which have been particularly difficult to cope with, it is sometimes necessary to monitor and adapt treatment plans at various intervals throughout the pet's progress. Although most pets will respond to a programme, which has been designed and implemented after an initial consultation, experience has shown that it is vital that owners continue to have support and positive feedback for the treatment programme to be maintained and to be successful.
A typical initial Assessment is likely to last about one and a half hours, offering sufficient time to discuss the problem(s) you are experiencing and any other factors, which you may wish to discuss about your pet's behaviour. The motivation / cause for the problem will be established and a behaviour modification programme advised for you to follow and implement. This will include the best way for you to deal with each situation as, and when, they arise. It may also include any other factors which could be influencing these difficulties and which would need to be addressed before attempting to implement any behaviour modification programme.
Following the consultation a detailed report outlining the motivation and programme is sent to you and a copy to your veterinary surgeon.
Although the advice you have been given may result in some quick changes more often it requires commitment, time and consistently from everyone involved before improvement is seen. Please be prepared for this to be the case. Following the session you will be asked to maintain weekly contact either by e mail or phone for at least eight weeks so that Carrie can monitor your pet’s progress to ensure things are going in the right direction and be available to offer additional support and help where necessary.
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Consultations usually take place at one of the referral clinics however if you would prefer a home visit this can be arranged. However, they cost substantially more due to the time and costs involved. Carrie does not necessarily need to see your pet display any unwanted behaviour to understand the problem. Remember, the more your pet displays the behaviour the more ingrained it becomes therefore it will take longer to resolve, (practice makes perfect!)
Home visits are generally booked when Carrie is visiting a clinic close to your home; as such they are carried out throughout the north of England.
It is essential that your veterinary surgeon is aware that you are experiencing problems with your pet and that you have contacted Carrie for help. Your veterinary surgeon / practice may prefer to see your pet prior to referral to eliminate any health problems which may be affecting your pet’s behaviour. Please ask them to complete the referral form. Alternatively they may send a letter or fax.
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