1) Can you guarantee that following your behavior modification will fix our problem?

Guaranteeing a cure or fix for a behavioral issue is unethical. We as with our animals are living beings with varying emotional and health factors that effect behavior. No one can ever completely understand, control or predict behavior. I will do what I can to give you advice and suggestions on how to help you change your pet's behavior. Because I'll be teaching your mechanical training skills, observational skills, some canine behavior and some learning theory - your results will depend on you.

2) How long is this going to take?

This will vary a lot from case to case. There are multiple factors to consider when doing behavior modification. Some see positive changes in just a few days, while others take months to years to achieve their realistic goal. Part of the issue is the environment the animal is in, the people influencing the animal's behavior (or lack thereof), the physical health of the animal and the owner, and if the problem is mild, moderate or severe.

3) How much work is this going to take?

Again, this will depend on the case. Some of the exercises are quiet simple but implementing them in a program/regime is where it will take an owner to be fully committed and compliant to the process. Sometimes it's a matter of changing something or managing something in the environment, altering a routine, changing the diet, changing an exercise program or implementing some training to teach the animal alternative behaviors - helping to extinguish undesired responses. It could be some or all of the above.

4) How many times will I need to see you?

Again, this will depend on the behavior in question along with other factors. I find programs to work best if owners are taught some fundamentals on mechanical skills, observational skills, canine behavior and learning theory.  Minimum requirement is 2-3 sessions - very serious cases such as dog aggression will require a minimum of 8 sessions if not more.

5) Should I make an appointment with my Veterinarian before I see you?

It's always a good idea to rule out possible medical conditions that might effect behavior especially if you notice a sudden change in your pet's behavior. It's also a good idea to get a baseline health record of your pet.