Why should I schedule a behavior consultation for my pet?

Behavior problems in animals can be very complex. Even seemingly simple problem behaviors can have an array of possible contributing factors. The advantage of seeking help from a veterinary behavior consultant is that all of these potential factors are considered, resulting in a more comprehensive understanding of your pet’s troubling behavior. This then allows for a very thorough plan for treatment to be laid out. Because you are seeking help from a veterinary professional means that any possible contributing medical conditions are considered, as well as the prescription of appropriate medications, when deemed necessary for treatment.

Where does the appointment take place?

Consultations through Greater Minnesota Veterinary Behavior Services take place in the home. The reason behind this is to allow observation of the animal in its usual everyday surroundings.

How long does an appointment take?

Initial diagnostic consultations typically take approximately 2-3 hours. Recheck appointments usually last about 1 - 1½ hours.

Who should take part in the consultation?

Optimally, anyone who has regular contact with the pet should be present. The relationship of animals to children is very important, however due to the length of appointments, it is asked that you make arrangements away from home for children under the age of five.

What happens during a consultation appointment?

The appointment usually starts with a discussion of the problem, along with observations of behaviors. This then transitions to the formulation of a plan, as well as recommendations and, usually, implementation of behavior modification as part of treatment.

How much does a behavior consultation cost?

Currently the fee for a diagnostic appointment is $229.00 for dogs, and $190.00 for cats. A travel fee of $1.50 per mile, one way, is charged from Sartell, MN to your home. Payment by cash or check is due at the completion of the appointment.

***Please note: The lesser fee for cats is in no way a statement of the value of felines or the problems they can present to their owners. It is only reflective of the fact that most feline cases involve slightly less interactive involvement on the part of the veterinary consultant.

What is included in the consultation fee?

The diagnostic appointment fee includes the time for review of information before the appointment, including any video of your pet that may be supplied to Dr. Bryant, as well as the actual appointment. A plan for treatment, as discussed during the appointment, will also be sent to you, either by standard mail or email. Also included in the fee is follow-up communication via email and/or phone for a period of two months following the consultation.

What if we need more help after the appointment?

Dr. Bryant is available by phone and email to discuss any questions or concerns. If adjustments to the treatment plan are needed they can be discussed. If help is needed with putting behavior modification strategies into place, Dr. Bryant may recommend specific trainers for private coaching.

What additional costs might there be?

If it is determined that your pet may need further medical workup, including bloodwork, this will be performed by your regular veterinarian, and would be paid directly to them. Any other potentially helpful products or prescription medications would also be at additional cost.

Are further appointments with Dr Bryant necessary?

If satisfactory progress is not being made, if the problem is very complex, or if new problems arise, recheck appointments can be scheduled. The fee for a recheck appointment is currently $140.00 for a dog and $110.00 for a cat.

How do I go about scheduling an appointment?

Simply call our business number (320-292-6608) or email us (info@gmnvetbehavior.com) and Julie, Dr. Bryant's office assistant, will be happy to work with you. Typically appointments are scheduled Monday through Friday between the hours of 9 a.m. and starting not later than 4 p.m. If you need to schedule an appointment time outside of that range, please contact us and we will try to accommodate you.

What preparations do I need to make once the appointment is scheduled?

In order to obtain as much background information as possible going into the appointment it is necessary that you fill out certain forms, and make sure they are returned by fax, email, or standard mail at least 24 hours prior to your scheduled appointment. Dr Bryant's office assistant, Julie, will be happy to guide you through this process once your appointment has been scheduled. It is often helpful to have video of the pet and its problem behavior, especially if this mainly occurs away from home. However, for safety, please DO NOT put anyone, including the pet, at risk for the purpose of making a video. No video is better than a dangerous or frightening video!

We will request a copy of your pet's medical record from your veterinarian.

We ask that your pet not be fed for 6-8 hours prior to the appointment. If food rewards are to be used as part of behavior modification it is important, for the sake of demonstration and practice, to have a pet that is motivated to respond to food during your appointment time.

My pet has bitten someone. Does this mean that my pet will have to be euthanized?

Aggression in animals is considered on a case by case basis, and no “blanket” recommendations are made in this regard. Each case of aggression has unique circumstances to be considered, and it is essential that the underlying cause(s) of the aggressive behavior be determined in order to make any recommendations. A behavior consultation concerning an aggressive animal will involve an assessment of risk, and safety will be a major focus for discussion, as well as the potential for rehabilitation.

Can I have a guarantee that my pet’s problem will be fixed?

Because of the complexity of living creatures and because actual learning (and especially the un-learning of undesirable behaviors) takes time, there is no way to predict an exact time frame or outcome. Part of the assessment process is to develop what would be considered realistic expectations, and Dr. Bryant will do her best to help you achieve acceptable goals.