FAQs

A veterinary behaviorist is a graduate veterinarian (DVM) who has completed a specialized training program (residency) in veterinary behavior and achieved board certification. See http://www.dacvb.org/ for more information. Currently, there are only 89 board-certified veterinary behaviorists throughout the world.

Dog trainers can help you train your dog. Most trainers offer foundation courses to help young dogs develop to their fullest potential. Some trainers help owners with behavior modification to address behavior problems.  Dogs with complex behavior problems, including aggression, generally need a full behavioral assessment by a veterinary (DVM) behaviorist. As a trained veterinarian, the veterinary behaviorist also determines if underlying medical problems are contributing to the development of serious behavior problems.  A dog trainer often helps to implement the behavior modification plan prescribed by the veterinary behaviorist. 

You may find that some individuals with no specific credentials will use these terms. It is important to learn about the education and credentials of the “certified trainer” or “behaviorist.” 

Veterinary behaviorists are veterinarians trained to treat conditions that are purely behavioral as well as those conditions that may have an underlying medical basis. In addition, fear-based and anxiety disorders are complex problems. If the behavioral problem is mismanaged, or if help is not sought early on in the progression of the problem, it often worsens. If you already have worked with a trainer and the problem is not improving, then an evaluation by a veterinary behaviorist is recommended. 

Veterinary behaviorists use the science of learning theory to help clients improve their pet’s behavior. Our methods are non-confrontational, humane, and designed to decrease household stress while improving the human-animal bond.

The outcome or prognosis for an individual pet is impacted by many factors. Underlying medical conditions, the number and severity of behavioral concerns, and the dynamics of the people in the household can impact the success of treatment. Most families seeking help are committed to following the treatment plan and see improvements in the intensity and frequency of their pet’s behavioral issues.

At Veterinary Behavior of Indiana, we aim to see clients for an initial consultation with their pet as soon as possible. Many of our clients are in similar situations and may have waited several weeks for their first appointment. As a result, we usually are unable to displace clients who already have scheduled appointments. Due to the length of the initial appointment (1 1/2 hours), Dr. Rigterink can see only a small number of new patients per week compared to a general veterinary practice.

The following steps may be helpful to ensure the safety of your pet and family until your initial appointment time.

1. Consult your Primary Veterinarian

If you feel that you have an urgent case but must wait to be seen, please consult your primary veterinarian if you have not done so. Be sure that your primary veterinarian has examined your pet, run any laboratory tests that he/she feels are appropriate, and has prescribed treatment as needed. Please note that Dr. Rigterink cannot prescribe medications or other specific treatments for an animal she has not examined. If your primary veterinarian wishes to consult Dr. Rigterink while you are awaiting your appointment, please have him/her contact our office.

2. Increased Management

Most behavior problems are long-standing, chronic conditions for which there is no magic “quick fix.” As much as possible, owners should try to avoid the circumstances where the problems are likely to occur. For example, if you have a dog that is aggressive towards other dogs when out on a walk, avoid walks until your appointment. Or, if your dog is exhibiting signs of separation anxiety, consider the use of family members/dog sitters to avoid having the dog stay home alone. See handout here with management tips for household inter-dog aggression.

Remember: If you have a veterinary emergency, please call your primary veterinarian right away.

3. Work with a credentialed trainer

Work with a credentialed trainer who uses behavioral training techniques that are based on science through positive reinforcement. We do not advocate or prescribe aversive methods (i.e. shock collars, prong collars, correction-based training) to modify behavior.

Veterinarians must establish and demonstrate a valid veterinarian – client – patient relationship before offering any diagnosis or specific treatment advice. If you live a great distance away, doctor recheck appointments may be done by Zoom if the patient has been seen in the last year.

Generally, it is not necessary for Dr. Rigterink to see your pet engaging in problematic behavior. Many behavior problems are rooted in fear and anxiety, and as a result, it can be detrimental to attempt to elicit the behavior for any reason. In fact, treatment of a behavior disorder is most successful when the pet is not motivated to perform the problem behavior.

The use of medication is based on several factors. First, the behavioral diagnosis and prognosis will be considered. In addition, your pet’s overall health and your preferences will be considered before any medication is prescribed. If Dr. Rigterink advises the use of medication, she will explain why the medication is indicated and encourage you to consult with your primary care veterinarian if you have any special concerns.

If you cancel your appointment, the reservation fee is non-refundable.