Behavioural Management

At Brighton Veterinary Hospital, we are passionate about strengthening the bond between owners and their pets. A strong and trusting connection between an owner and their pet is the foundation of a happy relationship, and troublesome behaviour can impact that bond. The team is experienced in assisting owners to navigate any behavioural challenges that may arise, improving their beloved pets’ health, safety, and quality of life.

At BVH, we offer different services depending on the severity, longevity, and impact of your pet’s behaviour.

A 15-minute appointment is suitable for minor, infrequent concerns with limited impact on your pet’s overall life, whilst a 45-minute consultation is for those behavioural concerns that are more extensive, difficult to manage and have a greater impact on the quality of life of your pet.   The Extended Behaviour appointments are well suited to owners who would like to work with the veterinarian in developing a holistic approach to the pet’s behavioural challenges, going beyond symptom control. A holistic approach could include lifestyle and environmental adjustments, behavioural modification techniques, medication if necessary, or a combination of these strategies to ensure lasting improvements in your pet’s behaviour.

Due to their length, the two appointments are priced differently. Please get in touch with the clinic for further information on pricing. We request that all Extended Behavioural Appointments be made at least five days in advance, as a client survey is sent out for completion before the consultation.

The table below will help you determine which appointment type might be most appropriate for your pet’s needs. If you are unsure, our friendly reception staff will happily help you determine the most appropriate next step.

15-minute 45-minute
Cats Is happy and healthy most of the time but gets very nervous about car rides or trips to the vet. Aggression towards other pets, people, excessive vocalisation or grooming, regular or semi-consistent anxiety.

Or any other behavioural issue that the owner would like to address with a holistic approach.

Dogs Is happy and healthy most of the time but gets very nervous about fireworks, storms, car rides or trips to the vet.  Aggression towards people, other pets, or is possessive.   Displays excessive barking or is demonstrating reactive or destructive behaviour, experiences separation anxiety, regular or semi-consistent anxiety.

Or any other behavioural issue that the owner would like to address with a holistic approach.

Please make a consultation with a veterinarian to discuss any behavioural issues you are concerned with. We look forward to working with you and your pet.

Puppy school

Brighton Veterinary Hospital offers a puppy school program regularly throughout the year.  The classes are conducted by one of our senior veterinary nurses and are held onsite at the clinic.

The programs runs over a four week period.  The classes run for approximately one hour.  Please contact the clinic for details on the latest class schedule.

With the current COVID restrictions, generally only one member of the family can attend.  Please call us to discuss your personal situation if you have more than one family member who would like to attend the class.

The program covers basic dog care, obedience and provides a great opportunity for your puppy to socialize with other puppies and become familiar with the veterinary setting and hopefully reduces any future anxiety with visiting the practice.

The Puppy School program costs $120 for the 4 week program.  In the event you are unable to attend one of the scheduled classes please feel free to nominate another family member to bring your puppy for that session.  Unfortunately, we cannot refund part payment, in the event you can’t attend one of the classes.

For more information on the puppy school schedule please contact us on (08) 8296 4300.