Amelia Pointe Animal Hospital & Daycare Offers Behavioral Modification And Training
Training a puppy or dog can be an overwhelming experience for some pet owners. At Amelia Pointe Animal Hospital & Daycare in Fernandina Beach, FL, we offer behavioral modification and training for dogs. Providing proper training to your pet ensures that he or she becomes a well-behaved family member.
The Importance of Good Training and Behavior in Pets
Training your dog allows you to maintain good control over your pet in any situation. This ability can be important when you are around people who may not be accustomed to being around dogs, and it can also help you to protect your pet from getting into sudden, dangerous situations.
Basic Elements of Training Your Pet
All dogs should learn simple commands to encourage good behavior and safety. Simple commands, such as “sit,” “come,” “stay,” and “drop it,” ensure your dog behaves well during daily activities. You can add more commands, if you desire. Training can be fun for both pet and pet owner, allowing you to spend more time together.
When Behavior Modification Is Needed
Behavior modification is different than teaching your animal commands. Behavior modification uses several different methods, such as desensitization, habituation, Look At That (LAT), and counterconditioning, to gradually change a pet’s behavior to certain conditions. For example, an animal that is afraid of thunder can be conditioned to expect a positive action, such as playtime with his or her owner or receiving a treat, to distract from the negative feelings for the thunder. Medications are sometimes recommended, along with modification techniques, to help pets relearn appropriate reactions. Your veterinarian can advise you on whether these medications can help your pet.
Effective Pet Behavioral Counseling and Training in Fernandina Beach
Dr. Branch and his team at Amelia Pointe Animal Hospital & Daycare have the training and experience to provide quality care for their patients in Fernandina Beach, FL, and nearby communities. We offer a wide range of pet services, including vaccinations, exams, preventative care, dental care, general surgery, diagnostics, laser therapy, and pet behavioral counseling and training. We also have a doggie daycare facility if you have to be away from home. Call Amelia Pointe Animal Hospital & Daycare today at (904) 310-9990 to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian, or to learn more about our behavioral modification and training services.