What is 'Behavioural Assessment & Modification'?
The first step on trying to resolve any behavioural issue is to define it, objectively and in detail. Once it has been ascertained what the problem looks like the next step is understanding why it is occurring.
To do this I consider underlying emotions and motivations, the animal's history, environment and their temperament.
It is also essential to consider any possible medical issues that could be contributing to the behaviours of concern.
Hopefully we will now understand what the problem is and why it is occurring. The next step is to then define treatment goals. These will focus on not just the pet's needs but also their family's.
'Modification' is when we are looking to directly address and change the behaviour of concern. We want to create plans that will keep everyone safe and happy, whilst targeting the root cause of the issue not just the behavioural symptoms. Teamwork is key to success, so I will do my best to create a bespoke plan that helps pets and people work together as effectively as possible.
What sort of problems can I help with?
Behaviourists help those pets who are struggling with emotional challenges, which make learning new things hard, coping with day to day life difficult, or may even put themselves or others at risk of harm.
Traditional dog training focuses primarily on teaching specific skills, such as loose lead walking, recall, sit etc.
These are all areas we may cover too, but as part of a wider plan.
Common presenting complaints may include:
- Human directed aggression
- Aggression between household pets
- 'Reactivity' towards other dogs, animals, people, cars etc
- Abnormal Repetitive Behaviours (tail chasing, shadow chasing etc)
- Separation Related Problems
- Inappropriate Toileting
- Handling issues (vet care, grooming, harnessing etc)
- General Fears (noises, people, vehicles, etc)
What area do I cover?
Remote support (see package options below) is available throughout the UK.
In person support is provided within 1hr of OX5 (see map below)
Zone 1 includes Oxford, Bicester, Witney, Kidlington and surrounding areas.
Zone 2 includes Aylesbury, High Wycombe, Maidenhead, Wokingham, Reading,
Swindon, Daventry, Milton Keynes and surrounding areas.
Support Packages & Pricing
Behavioural assessment and modification can be carried out on a fully remote basis, or a combination of remote and in person sessions.
The remote support package was utilised throughout the national lockdown but proved very popular, therefore will continue to be offered.
Please inform us if you would benefit from the use of real time closed captioning during video calls.
Veterinary Referral Is Essential Prior to Consultation.
In Person Behavioural Assessment
& Modification Package
Staff Member - Sophie
Initial consultation comprising of a video call (approx. 2hrs) & in person visit (approx. 1hr)
During this stage we will aim to gather as much information as possible to build a picture of not just the problem behaviour, but of your pet's temperament & your own family dynamics and lifestyle.
Written assessment and plan within 7 days of consultation
This document will outline the issues faced, why I think they are occurring & a brief risk assessment. There will then be guidance of how you should manage the issues, as well as what exercises we are going to work on to address the root cause and teach more desirable alternatives. To finish there will be a realistic prognosis too.
Communication with your primary care vet
I will share your written assessment and plan with your vets. If there are any medical elements to consider I will discuss this with them also and provide guidance on how I suggest they approach the case. Advice will also be provided on any behaviour modifying medication your pet may need.
Unlimited email & text support for 30 days
I ask for clients to update me weekly. But you are welcome to email or WhatsApp me as much as you need. Sharing video clips of training sessions and scenarios can be a great way to get quick feedback and advice. We can adjust plans based on your updates, and of course sometimes you just need someone to tell you you're doing a good job, and I can do that too!
Price for zone 1 (see map above) = £425
Price for zone 2 (see map above) = £475
Remote Behavioural Assessment
& Modification Package
Staff Member - Sophie or Sarah
Initial consultation via video call (approx. 3hrs)
During this stage we will aim to gather as much information as possible to build a picture of not just the problem behaviour, but of your pet's temperament & your own family dynamics and lifestyle.
Written assessment and plan within 7 days of consultation
This document will outline the issues faced, why I think they are occurring & a brief risk assessment. There will then be guidance of how you should manage the issues, as well as what exercises we are going to work on to address the root cause and teach more desirable alternatives. To finish there will be a realistic prognosis too.
Communication with your primary care vet
I will share your written assessment and plan with your vets. If there are any medical elements to consider I will discuss this with them also and provide guidance on how I suggest they approach the case. Advice will also be provided on any behaviour modifying medication your pet may need.
Unlimited email & text support for 30 days
I ask for clients to update me weekly. But you are welcome to email or WhatsApp me as much as you need. Sharing video clips of training sessions and scenarios can be a great way to get quick feedback and advice. We can adjust plans based on your updates, and of course sometimes you just need someone to tell you you're doing a good job, and I can do that too!
Available nationwide (UK)
£350
Emergency Management Call (pre-assessment)
Staff Member - Cerys
45-60min video call prior to full assessment.
Advice on management and safety in interim period.
Written report on current risks & advised actions.
£75
Additional Support (following full assessment)
Review Call - 1hr video call, plan update & further 30 days text/email support = £120
Additional 30 days of text/email support = £50
Online coaching session with Cerys = £60
In Person Coaching with Cerys = POA
ENQUIRY SESSION
£25
Not sure which service you need?
Want to ask some more questions before booking?
Or maybe you would like to discuss your requirements for private training...
I would recommend booking an enquiry session.
This is a 30-45 min remote meeting to discuss any queries you may have, provide more detail on the process, set some early goals and ensure all parties have realistic expectations.
These sessions are charged at £25 but this will be deducted from the cost of any services you book in the future.