How are behavioural problems treated?

There is no simple cure for any behavioural problem, so be careful when taking ''helpful'' advice. For example, many people with a destructive dog are advised to get another dog to fix the problem; however, they may end up with two destructive dogs! It is very important that the cause of the problem is addressed, not just the symptoms. For example, don’t chain a dog up because it is digging; instead, find out the reason for the digging and treat the dog accordingly. When it comes to your pet’s behaviour, it is extremely important to seek the advice of a qualified veterinarian or animal behaviour specialist. Changing problem behaviour requires commitment on behalf of the whole family, as everyone your pet interacts with will be responsible for encouraging desirable behaviour. For some problems, such as barking, escaping, aggression, or separation anxiety, it is beneficial to see the pet in its natural environment; thus, a home visit may be appropriate. Some cases may also require medications alongside the new training techniques to get the best outcome.

How do you make sure your pet's diet is healthy?

We strongly recommend that you: Use premium pet foods: Premium foods offer high-quality ingredients, are made by companies specialising in nutritional research, and show a solid track record of quality and palatability. Feeding generic pet foods may lead to obesity, irregular bowel movements, or excess intestinal gas. Make sure the food is fresh: When you purchase pet food, check for freshness and purchase only the amount necessary for your pet. Store pet food in a cool, dry place and keep it tightly closed. Discard uneaten food and always place fresh food in a clean bowl. In general, hard food (or "kibble") is preferred for maintaining dental health and minimising tartar build-up. Soft, canned food tends to be more palatable and can be stored for longer. Feed the right amount: Ask us or check the label for how much to feed according to your pet's ideal weight (not necessarily the same as their current weight). Avoid feeding pets as much as they want or feeding a large amount at one time. Doing so can lead to obesity, gastrointestinal upset, or even bloat, a life-threatening condition. Maintain a daily routine: A regular schedule will help your pet keep normal bowel movements and avoid indoor accidents. Younger pets need to be fed more frequently, as they are usually more energetic and burn more calories. Avoid "people" food: Your pet's digestive system is simpler than yours and can be easily upset by changes. Feeding table scraps will result in an unbalanced diet and can cause stomach upsets or even life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas.

Wellbeing Services

General Animal Wellbeing in Trinity Beach

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Behavioural Advice

Behavioural problems can be due to behavioural causes, medical causes, or both. Our veterinarians will investigate behavioural problems by obtaining a full history and conducting a full examination (sometimes your pet may require blood or urine tests to rule out underlying medical conditions) to accurately diagnose a problem. Behavioural problems are often the combined effect of many factors, including your pet’s environment and learning.

Genetics can also predispose your pet to some behaviours. However, the expression of those behaviours will depend on your pet’s early socialisation and training.

Changes in the environment may contribute to the emergence of behavioural problems. For example, changes in routine, a new member of the household (pet, baby or spouse), moving house, or the loss of a family member or pet can have a dramatic impact on behaviour. Any medical or degenerative changes associated with ageing may cause the pet to be even more sensitive to these environmental changes.

Learning also plays a part in many behavioural problems. Early training and socialisation are essential to have a happy, well-adjusted pet. Punishment of behavioural problems often worsens the situation, and it is very important that professional advice is obtained as soon as the problem appears to effectively resolve it. Positive reinforcement is the preferred method for changing behaviour; however, this also needs to be used carefully as it can encourage undesirable behaviour if used incorrectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are behavioural problems treated?

There is no simple cure for any behavioural problem, so be careful when taking ''helpful'' advice. For example, many people with a destructive dog are advised to get another dog to fix the problem; however, they may end up with two destructive dogs! It is very important that the cause of the problem is addressed, not just the symptoms. For example, don’t chain a dog up because it is digging; instead, find out the reason for the digging and treat the dog accordingly.

When it comes to your pet’s behaviour, it is extremely important to seek the advice of a qualified veterinarian or animal behaviour specialist. Changing problem behaviour requires commitment on behalf of the whole family, as everyone your pet interacts with will be responsible for encouraging desirable behaviour. For some problems, such as barking, escaping, aggression, or separation anxiety, it is beneficial to see the pet in its natural environment; thus, a home visit may be appropriate. Some cases may also require medications alongside the new training techniques to get the best outcome.

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Nutritional Advice

Along with regular exercise and veterinary care, careful nutrition is the best way you can contribute to your pet's prolonged good health.

These are the basic nutrients every pet needs:

Water is the most essential nutrient in any diet. Your pet's body is made up of approximately 70% water and will quickly perish without it. Ensure your pet can access fresh, clean water at all times.

Carbohydrates supply energy and come from sugars, starch, and fibre from plant sources. Carbohydrates help energise the brain and muscles, making your pet bright and active.

Fats also supply energy and, in the right amounts, help build strong cells and promote nutrient absorption. Too much fat, however, can lead to obesity-related health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease and osteoarthritis.

Proteins are required for a healthy coat, skin, and nails. Your pet's body uses the amino acids in proteins to make enzymes and hormones in the bloodstream and to maintain a healthy immune system. Proteins can come from plant and meat sources, but cats and dogs need high-quality animal protein.

Vitamins and minerals help regulate many body systems. For example, your pet needs calcium and phosphorous for strong bones. Antioxidant vitamins like vitamins E and C help boost your pet's immune system during times of stress.

Puppy Pre-School

There are many benefits to teaching your puppy to be well behaved at an early age. Young puppies are quite able to learn obedience skills, toileting behaviour and social boundaries. All of these things help make your relationship with your dog more rewarding for the years to come.

We provide an effective Puppy Pre-school program for all of the puppies that visit our clinic. With our progressive and positive learning techniques you will:

Develop an understanding of normal puppy behaviour.
Learn how to read your puppy's body language and respond appropriately.
Develop effective techniques for positive behavioural development.
Learn important tips about walking in public areas.
Understand the need for socialising your puppy.
Teach your puppy some important 'do not' lessons.
Understand important boundaries when playing together.
Develop strong bonds between you and your puppy.

The most important thing about Puppy Pre-school is 'start early'. Waiting too long can allow behaviour problems to establish which then require more intensive training to overcome.

So start today and call us about enrolling your puppy in our local Puppy Pre-school classes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make sure your pet's diet is healthy?
We strongly recommend that you:
- Use premium pet foods: Premium foods offer high-quality ingredients, are made by companies specialising in nutritional research, and show a solid track record of quality and palatability. Feeding generic pet foods may lead to obesity, irregular bowel movements, or excess intestinal gas.
- Make sure the food is fresh: When you purchase pet food, check for freshness and purchase only the amount necessary for your pet. Store pet food in a cool, dry place and keep it tightly closed. Discard uneaten food and always place fresh food in a clean bowl. In general, hard food (or "kibble") is preferred for maintaining dental health and minimising tartar build-up. Soft, canned food tends to be more palatable and can be stored for longer.
- Feed the right amount: Ask us or check the label for how much to feed according to your pet's ideal weight (not necessarily the same as their current weight). Avoid feeding pets as much as they want or feeding a large amount at one time. Doing so can lead to obesity, gastrointestinal upset, or even bloat, a life-threatening condition.
- Maintain a daily routine: A regular schedule will help your pet keep normal bowel movements and avoid indoor accidents. Younger pets need to be fed more frequently, as they are usually more energetic and burn more calories.
- Avoid "people" food: Your pet's digestive system is simpler than yours and can be easily upset by changes. Feeding table scraps will result in an unbalanced diet and can cause stomach upsets or even life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas.