Behavior Expertise Can Generate Revenue

By Sharon Biggs Waller

It’s not uncommon for clients to ask a veterinarian about their dogs’ behavior. While most veterinarians refer their clients to trainers, a new AAVSB-approved continuing education program developed by a canine behavior specialist and author of “Good Dog!” means veterinarians, technicians and assistants can address the behavior themselves, possibly increasing overhead at the same time. 

“The ASPCA reports that 42 percent of dogs acquired in the U.S. annually are surrendered in the first year of life because of behavior,” says the behaviorist, Donna Chandler. “If veterinarians take behavior training into their clinics, not only will the dog remain in the family, but the veterinarian will keep the client.

“No one has to lose if there is someone on the staff who can help.”

Jeanette Raikos, DVM, of VCA West 86th Street Animal Hospital in Indianapolis, Ind., notes that relinquishment is a big problem.

“So we are pre-emptive,” she says. “If we have a first-time dog owner, we’ll help them start out right so they don’t have a problem down the line. We have Donna come in and conduct classes here, and then she follows up with the patients at home.

“Having someone on staff who can help with behavior is definitely an added value to our clients. And the owner maintains that pet for a lifetime.”  

Chandler’s class and seminar provides the training to teach basic principles of canine training and behavior modification. It is approved for eight hours of continuing education by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards for veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants. Veterinarians are approved by their state.

Chandler says a veterinarian’s bottom line can increase by $75,000 to $250,000 a year, depending upon the practice, by offering behavior training. Veterinary technicians and assistants trained in animal behavior become more valuable employees.  

Click here for details. <HOME>

 Give us your opinion on
Behavior Expertise Can Generate Revenue

Industry Professional Site: Comments from non-industry professionals will be removed.

Not all behavioral problems are manifested in the short time that a busy practitioner, has allotted for an office visit. If the new pet hasn't been leash trained or isn't understanding or responsive to even the most basic commands, then it is incumbent for that practitioner to arrange a mutually convenient time for an ADULT FAMILY MEMBER to be able to present the pet for a practical demonstration. I usually arrange to see such novices/ ignorant owners on my lunch hour. BEAR IN MIND THAT many behavioral traits may not be exhibited when the pet is in a busy waiting room and distracted by other clients pets. Most owners haven't the foggiest idea of how and when to use a choke collar, and demonstrating it takes far less time than trying to verbalize "how to". Also it is best to have the adult present the pet without the distraction of very young children in the family being present. You need their undivided attention, and too often the owners whose pets need behavioral modification the most often have children who do also!!~ Marvin J., Pacific Grove, CA Posted: 3/17/2010 6:42:45 PM Understanding and managing behavior issues is naturally a large part of veterinary practice, whether addressed formally via offering puppy socialization classes, having obedience training done on site or having one of the veterinarians on staff doing behavior consultations for the purpose of diagnosing and managing behavior issues. I want to emphasize, however, that the diagnosis and treatment (especially when including pharmaceuticals) is in the realm of practicing veterinary medicine. These cases should be managed and directed by a veterinarian, not by a trainer or a technician. These individuals are vital adjuncts to working successfully with behavior problems but they cannot not should not be diagnosing. I would also suggest that when writing an article dealing with a recognized veterinary specialty (behaviorists are veterinarians certified by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists), you include a veterinary behaviorist as a source for the piece. John, Carol Stream, IL Posted: 3/17/2010 4:02:32 PM It's about time behavior training is brought into vet clinics! It is a big part or medicine (how the mind works in individual pets). I think every clinic and every worker in the clinics should be updated on training and behavioral problems. Not just the technicians and vets should know the in depth material, but the secretaries in the front of the clinic should know the basics to help direct clients with their questions. Andrea, Pomona, CA Posted: 3/17/2010 3:19:58 PM I am not certain that attending a one-day seminar can adequately prepare anyone to handle anything but the most basic behaviors. If veterinarians send their staff to any one-time seminar expecting to achieve more, they may be disappointed. However, depending upon the methods taught, this could be the first-step for those who want to offer on-going quality behavior education to their clients. Veterinary Technicians who are interested in learning more about how to apply behavior modification during their daily interactions with pets in the clinic setting should also consider joining the Society of Veterinary Behavior Technicians. This organization allows technicians to meet and share information about animal behavior and training with each other. Linda, St. Louis, MI Posted: 3/16/2010 2:39:18 PM