FAQ

Dr. Posage sees all breeds of dogs and cats of any age.

Dr. Posage is one of only a few veterinarians in the area with a practice limited to the treatment of behavior problems. It has not been possible to keep up the demand that spiked during the pandemic.  While we would love to increase the number of clients we see, the nature of successful behavior consultation requires time and personal attention.  We are not willing to compromise patient care.

No, Dr. Posage has seen it all!.  Most behavior problems can be adequately described in the intake survey and during he consultation Video recordings are always welcomed.  However, please do not put yourself or anyone in danger for the sake of recording the behavior.

Yes.

Most of the time you will not see other clients or patients when you show up for your appointed time.  We only see one client at a time and build buffer space between appointments.  Still, things happen, so please text or call upon your arrival if you need to make sure the space is clear or you need assistance.  We want this to be as low-stress as possible for both you and your pet!

No, all pet owners are welcome to schedule an appointment with or without a referral.  Regardless of referral, your pet’s primary veterinary will receive a copy of the behavior treatment plan.  We are grateful for referrals from primary care veterinarians and trainers.  We want to work together to create a team approach to your pet's behavior problems.

Unfortunately, there are no guarantees when it comes to changing behavior.  There are many factors that affect the success of treatment including, but not limited to, the cause and severity of the problem.  Beware of dog trainers and animal behaviorists who guarantee outcomes, especially without a complete understanding your pet's health and behavioral history.  While not all pet behavior problems can be completely resolved, even people with the most serious pet behavior problems will usually gain a much better understanding of their pet, a personalized and realistic plan for addressing problematic behavior, and a happier relationship after meeting with Dr. Posage.

If behavior medication is appropriate, Dr. Posage can discuss treatment options and prescribe medication.  Medication is sometimes beneficial to help control your pet’s emotional response to a situation while the pet learns a new response.  When medication is prescribed, it will be to support a comprehensive behavior treatment plan that also includes recommendations for management and behavior modification.  An informed choice to defer or decline behavior medication will be respected and focus will then be on other parts of the plan.

Visual exams are performed during office visits.  Full or targeted exams are performed as indicated and when possible, otherwise are avoided when too stressful for the pet is unsafe.

Trainers and non-veterinary behaviorists are not qualified to determine if behavior changes are due to a physical illness.  As a veterinarian, Dr. Posage can assess for medical conditions that may contribute to behavior changes and prescribe medication if needed. An experienced, credentialed dog trainer using positive reinforcement methods can help to implement different aspects of the behavior modification plan.