If you have a suspected Behavioural Problem with your pet that is causing immediate and immense
frustration & consternation, the following can be helpful until you can see us at the clinic for a
behavioural Consult.
- Avoid the problem situation – temporarily remove the pet from the situation e.g. board at
kennels, keep separate; OR suspend trigger activities e.g. walking, playing etc. - Stop Punishment – pets cannot associate the punishment with the crime and are more likely
to develop fear or aggression tendencies when punished. Rather distract the pet with a
noise or lock it away for “time-out”. - Avoid “quick fixes” like citronella or shock collars. Although these have their place, they do
not solve the underlying problem. - Stop rewarding the problem behaviour. Pushing a dog down that jumps up encourages the
behaviour; shouting at a barking dog is seen as “barking” back to the dog. Turn your back;
provide no eye contact; no voice reward etc. - Start rewarding good or desirable behaviour. When the dog or cat is doing something you
wish it to do, like playing with a toy, or even lying at rest, give it attention, be it treats or play
time. - Be consistent in your ignorance and reward therapy.
- Use remote distractions like a shake can (can with stones or coins in it) or water sprays. This
should be used while teaching the pet alternative good behaviour. - Always have small treats on hand to reward the pet during training, or when it is doing
something good.
Contact the clinic for a Behavioural Consult to go into more detail about your pet’s specific problem.
Dr Colin van Rensburg