Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a consultation with VBMS and visiting a trainer?
There are some wonderful trainers out there (especially Karen Pryor Academy graduates) who understand learning theory and how to use positive reinforcement to help modify behaviors.
Dr. White is a veterinarian so she is able to diagnose medical conditions such as panic disorders, compulsive disorders, and generalized anxiety. She also understands how other disease processes such as arthritis, endocrine disorders, and sensory deficiencies can influence behavior.
Though she does not prescribe medications to every patient, she is able to determine if they are likely to be safe and effective for your pet.
Why is the behavior history form so important?
Dr. White spends up to 2 hours prior to each appointment tailoring a plan specifically for your pet. The more detail that you provide, the more prepared she can be for your visit.
Will my pet need follow-up appointments?
YES! The most successful behavior modification plans start with a solid foundation and become more specific as we proceed. Compliance and follow-up are major components to long term success.
What species does Dr. White treat?
Dogs and Cats
Will Dr. White prescribe medications for my pet?
Only if they are needed. Some behavioral issues are manifest from anxiety and panic disorders. If Dr White recommends anti-anxiety medications for your pet (she does not recommend them for every patient), she will take the time to discuss mechanism of action, duration of effect, and potential side effects.
Does Dr. White ever use choke, prong, or shock collars?
No!!! These are never recommended and are not an appropriate standard of care.
http://avsabonline.org/uploads/position_statements/Combined_Punishment_Statements.pdf
http://www.petprofessionalguild.com/Forcefreepositionstatements
If you are currently using these devices, you will be asked to stop using them as part of your pet’s behavior modification plan.
I heard on tv that dogs with aggression issues are “dominant” is that true?
Nope! “Dominance” theory is a catch-all ideology that compares domestic dogs to wolves. Research done over the past 30 years has shown that the idea of a linear hierarchy in canids is completely untrue (dogs AND wolves)
http://avsabonline.org/uploads/position_statements/dominance_statement.pdf
http://www.petprofessionalguild.com/dominancetheorypositionstatement
Can Dr. White answer a few questions about my pet prior to my scheduling an appointment?
Unfortunately, no. Veterinarians, like human medical doctors, cannot give any specific medical advice about a patient that they have not personally seen.
What is the difference between a consultation with VBMS and visiting a trainer?
There are some wonderful trainers out there (especially Karen Pryor Academy graduates) who understand learning theory and how to use positive reinforcement to help modify behaviors.
Dr. White is a veterinarian so she is able to diagnose medical conditions such as panic disorders, compulsive disorders, and generalized anxiety. She also understands how other disease processes such as arthritis, endocrine disorders, and sensory deficiencies can influence behavior.
Though she does not prescribe medications to every patient, she is able to determine if they are likely to be safe and effective for your pet.
Why is the behavior history form so important?
Dr. White spends up to 2 hours prior to each appointment tailoring a plan specifically for your pet. The more detail that you provide, the more prepared she can be for your visit.
Will my pet need follow-up appointments?
YES! The most successful behavior modification plans start with a solid foundation and become more specific as we proceed. Compliance and follow-up are major components to long term success.
What species does Dr. White treat?
Dogs and Cats
Will Dr. White prescribe medications for my pet?
Only if they are needed. Some behavioral issues are manifest from anxiety and panic disorders. If Dr White recommends anti-anxiety medications for your pet (she does not recommend them for every patient), she will take the time to discuss mechanism of action, duration of effect, and potential side effects.
Does Dr. White ever use choke, prong, or shock collars?
No!!! These are never recommended and are not an appropriate standard of care.
http://avsabonline.org/uploads/position_statements/Combined_Punishment_Statements.pdf
http://www.petprofessionalguild.com/Forcefreepositionstatements
If you are currently using these devices, you will be asked to stop using them as part of your pet’s behavior modification plan.
I heard on tv that dogs with aggression issues are “dominant” is that true?
Nope! “Dominance” theory is a catch-all ideology that compares domestic dogs to wolves. Research done over the past 30 years has shown that the idea of a linear hierarchy in canids is completely untrue (dogs AND wolves)
http://avsabonline.org/uploads/position_statements/dominance_statement.pdf
http://www.petprofessionalguild.com/dominancetheorypositionstatement
Can Dr. White answer a few questions about my pet prior to my scheduling an appointment?
Unfortunately, no. Veterinarians, like human medical doctors, cannot give any specific medical advice about a patient that they have not personally seen.
