Pet behavior problems are part of every veterinary practice. They are common and one of the biggest reasons that people give up their pets or have them euthanized.

My name is Joanna Gawrys. I have been a licensed veterinary technician for twelve years. Eleven years ago I adopted a five month old Golden Retriever from the Humane Society. He was a big troublemaker without any training. Shadow wasn't house trained, had separation anxiety, fear induced aggression, and excitement urination. He was a chewer, digger, and barker. This list could go on and on. At this time my daughter was five years old and I had to make a decision, because Shadow liked to bite my daughter's sleeves and arms. Our house, yard, and ears were suffering. I knew that if I took Shadow back to the shelter, he would be euthanized. I wasn't going to give up on this dog. It took me a very long time to make him a "good dog" with separation anxiety under control. He has been a member of our family for eleven wonderful years. He is not a perfect dog, but remember, there are no perfect pets or people. Shadow made me realize that by preventing and treating behavior problems, I can help other pets from being mistreated, given away, or euthanized. I can also help frustrated and sometimes desperate owners deal with the situation, which can lead to separation from their beloved pets.

In the past eleven years, I attended several seminars, took numerous behavior courses, and read many behavior related books and articles. They helped me gain the knowledge that I share with our clients during their visits at the clinic, and by returning phone calls to troubled pet owners.

Our clinic's website makes it even easier to communicate with our clients. We believe that by educating clients on pet care, we can establish a better relationship between pet and owner. That leads to a better quality life for both of them. To prevent problems, our clinic provides puppy and kitten socialization during the first pet visit. The initial exam includes tips on nutrition, house training, and basic care from one of our licensed veterinary technicians.

Our website allows me to expand behavior service to our clients. If you are planning on getting a new pet and have questions about type of pet, breed right for your life style, cost, time involved in care and training, or if you have behavioral problems with your dog or cat, and you are looking for some advice, please write to me at nuccivet@hotmail.com . I will try to help you improve your relationship with your pet and prevent further damage. Please, remember that some behavior problems begin with a medical reason. Annual exam and diagnostic tests can detect problems before they are out of control. Even strictly indoor pets can have infections and internal organs decreased function. Pets who were 100% house broken don't start urinating inside the house just to make you mad. Sometimes it is caused by a bladder infection, diabetes, kidney disease, or many other medical reasons. Sometimes they just don't like a new sofa or your new schedule, which may not include playtime with your beloved pet.

Please don't make quick decisions when you are frustrated with your pet. Address the problems when they begin. Not a few weeks or months later when it is harder to treat them. Let us provide the best service possible for your pet!

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