Canine Behavior Consultations

I offer in-home consultations for dogs with behavior problems. I focus on: dogs that bark at other dogs or people while on leash (leash reactivity); dogs that bark, growl, or bite family members or strangers; house-training issues; fearful behavior; dogs that vocalize, urinate/defecate, destroy objects and/or injure themselves while left alone (separation anxiety); among other issues.
Practical, compassionate, force-free and backed by science.

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Feline Behavior Consultations

I provide virtual video consultations for cats with concerning behavior.
Common behavior issues may include: urinating/defecating outside of the litter box; hissing, growling, swatting and/or fighting between household cats; hissing, growling, swatting and/or biting humans; prolonged hiding and cowering; introducing a new cat or dog into a household; and other problem behaviors.
Practical, compassionate, force-free and backed by science.

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How I Work

History

Prior to the appointment, I will send you a behavior history form, where you will detail the history and context of your pet’s behavior problem(s), history, and daily routine.

Consultation

At the appointment, I will go over the questionnaire and discuss further questions about the history and context of your pet’s behavior and observe their problem behavior, when possible. At the end of the appointment, I will provide you with a treatment outline and work on some behavior modification and/or training techniques with you, when necessary. Following the consultation, I will provide you a written treatment plan. The initial appointment generally lasts 1.5 to 2 hours.

Follow-up

The consultation includes 3 months of follow-up care through email, text, phone and/or video chat.

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Guiding Principles

I use reward-based training and behavior modification techniques that are consistent with recommendations made by the American Veterinary Society for Animal Behavior, the ASPCA, the Pet Professional Guild, among other organizations.
I manage, treat and prevent undesired behaviors with an emphasis on positive reinforcement, negative punishment, counter-conditioning and desensitization, management and lifestyle changes.
I place equal emphasis on improving the lives of both the pets AND the humans in the relationship. I will meet you where you are and we’ll work together towards improvement.
I regularly attend seminars, lectures and conferences, and read scientific journal articles to remain up-to-date on the latest research regarding applied animal behavior.

“AVSAB recommends that training should focus on reinforcing desired behaviors, removing the reinforcer for inappropriate behaviors, and addressing the emotional state and environmental conditions driving the undesirable behavior.”

— AVSAB Position Statement on The Use of Punishment for Behavior Modification in Animals

Pricing

Canine and Feline Consultations

Canine: $425 - 3 month package which includes the initial consultation in your home, 3 months of follow-up including monthly zoom calls and unlimited email, text, and/or video review. If you're located greater than 15 miles or 30 minutes from my home in Kenmore, NY, there is an additional travel fee.

Feline: $275- 3 month package which includes an initial remote zoom consultation, and 3 months of follow-up through email, text, video review, and/or phone calls.

*Extra in-home visits are available at an additional fee, depending on location.

** Remote consulations are also available for dogs.

Group Classes, Seminars, and Other Services

Price varies. Please get in touch! For more information click here.

Puppy Board and Train