Behavior Modification & Training With Dr. Matthew Benedick, DVM, CPT
Do any of the following apply?
1. Urinating / Defecating in the house?
2. Excessively barking at strangers, other animals, when the doorbell rings and other inopportune times?
3. Posturing, growling, biting at other people/animals?
4. Extremely anxious/fearful around novel situations, people, events? Or just in general?
5. Does your cat spray in the house frequently?
6. Is your cat playing too aggressively with other members of the family/household?
7. In general, just concerned with what seems to be “odd behaviors”?
These and many other issues face our companion animals and their owners. They can be frustrating and difficult to interpret, yet they happen for a reason. Occasionally some animals will benefit from pharmacotherapy, or medications intended to give the animal a “boost” or a “break” from the mindset that often accompanies these behaviors. However, like any behavior problem, a behavioral solution, in combination with pharmacotherpy if needed, is the ideal long term solution to these behavior problems. Of course, there are certain medical conditions which can cause some of the observed behavior problems (such as urinary tract infections leading to unexpected urination in the house, or hyperthyroidism leading to increased activity and agitation in cats….among many others) and it is best to rule out such conditions prior to instituting behavioral therapy.
We at Falls Road Veterinary Hospital are very fortunate to have a behavior and training expert on staff. Dr. Matthew Benedick recently joined our practice last fall. Dr. Benedick is a graduate of the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine. During his time in the program he took multiple behavior as well as behavioral pharmacotherpy courses. Upon graduation he attended National K-9 school for dog trainers and earned his Certified Professional Trainer (CPT) certificate. The latter course led to proficiency in breed identification and breed-related behavior problems, dealing with anxious, fearful, overexcited and aggressive dogs, as well as basic and advanced obedience. He has a passion for animal behavior and dog training and believes each animal can fit into the chosen family dynamic given the proper commitment, actions and treatments.
If you feel your pet could benefit from Dr. Benedick’s knowledge, please call our office to make an appointment. Dr. Benedick is available at Falls Road Veterinary Hospital every Tuesday.
