Show Notes

Show #: 06-113

Show Description: "Animal Behavior "

Audio Files: ATVR-06-113.mp3, ATVR-06-113.wma

On this week’s show we covered animal behavior.  Veterinary Behaviorist and Neurologist Dr. Elizabeth Shull, owner of Appalachian Veterinary Specialists, joined us in-studio for the entire show to answer pet behavioral questions from listeners ranging from aggression to puppy potty training. 

Show Notes and Resources:

• Owner of Appalachian Veterinary Specialists Dr. Elizabeth Shull, a specialist in veterinary behavior and neurology, answered listeners’ pet behavioral questions about their pets.
• The most common behavioral problems that Dr. Shull treats at the facility are aggression and elimination issues in dogs and cats.  To see a behaviorist, pet owners need to get a referral from their local veterinarian.  The process includes pet observation and a 1 1/2-2 1/2 hour interview consisting of standard questions regarding the pet’s living environment and surroundings, the behavior problem, methods that have been used prior to the interview, etc.  Behaviorists typically treat one habit or issue that affects an otherwise well-behaved pet using a different depth of management and therapy than trainers use for routine behavior training, management and control. 
• Several callers called regarding aggression in their pets.  If an animal is acting aggressive toward visitors, be sure to keep the animal contained and closely monitored to ensure the safety of your guests and eliminate the risk for law suits and emergencies.  Pets associate one negative experience and relate it to all similar experiences afterwards.  This phenomenon is known as one-trial learning and can cause difficulty with aggression and fear.  If your pet exhibits continual aggression toward veterinarians and groomers, a muzzle may be necessary.  When using a muzzle, be sure to train your dog to wear it at home and become comfortable with it before going to the vet.  The trick is to make each trip feel as ordinary and comfortable as possible so pets can start the slow process of alleviating prior negative feelings.  This phenomenon is also prevalent with children.  One bad experience with a child may result in the dog continuously associating negativity with kids.  Before you adopt an animal, be sure to observe how they act in their cage or environment.  If the animal is nervous and retreating from you, this animal may have anxiety issues that cause problems later.  Get to know the animals past socialization and the socialization experiences they may have had in their recent environment before determining whether this animal will be a right fit for you.
• Potty-training in dogs was also a common topic listeners called in about this week.  When getting a new puppy, have patience!  Puppies do not grasp the concept of bathroom control until at least 4 months of age.  Though it is good to start training early, realize that puppies may need to go out every hour and should not be punished if they do have an accident at this age.  This is a common mistake pet owners tend to make and as a result the pet becomes fearful of the owner and chooses to eliminate when the owner is not looking.  Also, offer a pad for them to go on indoors in case an emergency occurs and they cannot wait.  Remember in basic house training that animals learn where TO eliminate, NOT where not to eliminate. 
• To learn more information, visit the Appalachian Veterinary Services website at www.avstennessee.com or call 966-9166.  You can also purchase books recommended by Dr. Shull through our web store.