Parrot, Cat, Horse, and other
Companion Animal Behavior Issues
Behavior problems typically gets worse over time, not better, so it is important to address them at the start of the issue. The ways that we approach behavior issues affects long term outcomes, so it is important to work with an independently certified behavior professional. Behavior issues are complex so two animals may display similar unwanted behaviors, but the causes and solutions may be a bit different. Arrange a Behavior Consultation with Eileen and receive certified, experienced help at a time that is convenient for you to begin addressing your animal's unwanted behaviors. She can help with cats, various birds (e.g. parrots, parakeets, cockatoos, pigeons), and horses. If you have a different species, please send a message.
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It is essential to address the root causes of unwanted behaviors, taking into account the whole animal -- to include health, natural ethology of the species, past experiences, fear, anxiety, socialization, environment, or other factors -- that may need addressed to resolve the issue in the long term. Otherwise, the behavior issues will continue to resurface and worsen in the future.
Eileen is an animal behavior specialist and fully certified dog behavior consultant with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants with continued education and experience on multi-species companion animal behavior issues. and will address your companion animal's behavior issues with positive and humane methods. Eileen uses behavior modification through positive reinforcement/reward-based training to change the undesirable behaviors that your companion animal exhibits. Reward-based methods are the exclusive methods recommended by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) and the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB) for addressing behavior issues including severe aggression. This involves teaching your animal new, more desirable behavior patterns, creating positive emotional associations with triggers that cause fear/anxiety/stress, and ultimately teaching him or her to make better choices. Eileen will create unique solutions for your household to address the problem behaviors.
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We will NEVER instill fear, intimidate, or use harmful or painful techniques on your pet. Instead, we teach useful skills using fun, relationship-building techniques. We do NOT use shock or prong collars, yelling, intimidation, noise aversives, or other corrections. Our philosophy is that we want and need your animal's cooperation for everyone to have a fulfilling life together. We want him/her to perform the behaviors willingly, so that they can make good behavioral choices in various situations.
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Behavior Issues include but are not limited to:
Urine Marking/Spraying, Litter box Issues, Biting, Screaming, Body Handling Issues, Separation Distress or Anxiety, Guarding Access to their bonded person, Intrahousehold fighting between pets, Intense Fear or Anxiety, Environmental Sensitivities, Chewing/Scratching and Destructive behaviors, Stereotypic or Repetitive or Compulsive behaviors, Aggression toward people or other pets, Nervousness, Territorial behavior, Feather plucking, Issues with Tacking and Saddling and Grooming, and More
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During a Behavior Consultation:
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Meet for up to two hours
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Discussion of your animal's behavioral, social, medical, and training histories
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Set goals and discuss concerns
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Evaluate your animal in his natural state and home environment
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Identify any necessary safety or management measures
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Develop a plan for moving forward
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Gain a better understanding of your animal's behavior and needs
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Begin the training/behavior modification
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Receive helpful information and solutions
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Possible referrals, as needed, to veterinarians, veterinary behaviorists, and other pet professionals as needed to help you and your pet reach your goals
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Behavior Consultations and other first time appointments are always over Zoom, but follow-up appointments may be done either in person or over Zoom. In-person follow-up appointments must be at a location within 15 minutes drive of Confident Canines LLC (89143). Follow-up appointments are usually every 1-2 weeks until issues resolve.
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