Does your dog bark excessively when you leave the house? Is your cat avoiding the litter box? Behavioral issues can be confusing, frustrating, and sometimes heartbreaking but you’re not alone, and we can help.
At Northwest Animal Hospital, we offer professional pet behavior counseling to support both your pet’s emotional well-being and your peace of mind. Our experienced veterinary team works with you to uncover the cause of unwanted behaviors and create a personalized plan to help your pet feel and behave better.
Why Behavior Problems Happen
Pets communicate through behavior. When something feels off physically, emotionally, or environmentally, they may act out. Some behaviors are rooted in anxiety or fear, while others can stem from underlying medical issues.
That’s why we always start by ruling out physical causes before addressing behavior from a training or environmental standpoint.
Common Behavior Issues We Treat
Our team is experienced in identifying and managing a wide variety of behavior concerns in both dogs and cats, including:
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Aggression or irritability (toward humans or other pets)
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Chewing household items
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Compulsive behaviors
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Excessive barking or howling
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Inappropriate urination or defecation
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Noise phobias (e.g., fear of fireworks, thunderstorms)
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Obsessive licking or skin chewing (lick granulomas)
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Pica or coprophagia (eating non-food items or feces)
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Separation anxiety (whining, destructive behavior, pacing when left alone)
How We Help
Each pet and home is unique, so we take a comprehensive approach to solving behavior issues. Our behavior consultations may include:
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Medical evaluation to rule out pain, illness, or other physical causes
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In-home environment recommendations to reduce stressors and triggers
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We work with Reale Dog Trainers to customize training strategies to redirect behavior and reinforce positive habits.
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Behavioral medication, if appropriate, to support your pet during retraining
We work closely with you to ensure any plan is realistic, sustainable, and centered around your pet’s needs.
Learn more about Reale Dog Trainers
When to Seek Help for Pet Behavior Issues
Don’t wait until a minor issue becomes a major problem. If your pet is exhibiting sudden changes in behavior or you're feeling overwhelmed by persistent issues, it’s time to schedule a behavior consultation.
Even subtle signs such as hiding more than usual or reacting aggressively during grooming can be your pet’s way of saying something’s wrong.
Find Balance in Your Home
At Northwest Animal Hospital, we believe the bond between pets and their people is sacred. Our goal is to help restore harmony in your home by understanding the “why” behind the behavior and working together to find the best solution.
Book a Pet Behavior Consultation Today
If you're concerned about your pet’s behavior, we're here to help. Call us at (614) 451-4772 to schedule a behavior consultation or please fill out form to get started.
Because a happy pet makes for a happier home.