Behaviour Consultations

Sometimes your dog's behaviour gets to a point where they are no longer always a delight to live with and where they need constant management and attention. If this is the case then a behavioural consultation is probably the best solution for you, your family and your dog.

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The consultation process lasts for approximately two hours but may need to be followed up by further 1/2 hour training sessions but this will be at your discretion as it will be only you who will know when you are comfortable with where your dog's behaviour and your management (if still necessary).

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Some of the areas covered under behavioural consultations include but are not limited to:

• Separation Anxiety

• Aggression towards other dogs

• Aggression towards humans

• Resource guarding (toys; food; places)
   

The above behaviours are only an example of what a consultation may focus on and some of the consult may include items from the general issues list; but the above behaviours often require a lot more attention; analysis and rehabilitation which is why I have separated them out from the general behaviours list.

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We are able to look at the behaviour your dog is showing with an indepth knowledge and an insight into what might really be going on behind the scenes rather than just reacting to what is being presented.  We can then help you with a plan going forward that works to your needs in helping change the unwanted behaviour into a more acceptable one.  We will give you full support during what can be a very frustrating time in your companionship with your beloved canine.

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Even though our canine behaviour MA & BSc degree qualifications can stand on their own we are also members of a variety of organisations such as the NZAPDT, Pet Industry Federation, PPG (Pet Professionals Guild), Guild of Dog Trainers, the CFBA as well as working towards accreditation with The Kennel Club.

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Our experience and knowledge comes not only from attending workshops, courses and seminars but also from personally having to work and live with dogs that have had behaviour challenges; we understand what it is to live with a dog that needs help.

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Can your behaviour consult be covered by your insurance?

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The Canine and Feline Behaviour Association (CFBA) is accepted by Pet Insurance Companies who cover behaviour problems on their policies and meets their criteria for excellence in the field. I Karen McCarthy am an accredited Member of the CFBA and as such, your pet insurance policy may assist with costs.  Each insurance company will have it's own criteria of what it deems a behaviour problem which the client can discuss with their insurance company prior to booking an appointment.  Canine or Feline behaviour problems are defined by each individual company. Dog training is NOT a part of pet insurance cover.

If you think your insurance company may cover your behavioural problem the following may help identify what you need to do in regards to the procedure of referral:
- Vets can instruct a client to contact one of the CFBA's Behaviour Practitioners after providing them with a referral letter/communication or completed and stamped CFBA referral form. 
- Alternatively, the Vet can contact one of our behaviourists to pass the client and case details directly.
- A client can request any veterinarian to recommend a particular behaviourist.