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Soraya V. Juarbe-Diaz, DVM, DACVB

Veterinary Behaviorist in west central Florida

I hope to answer some general questions that you may have regarding veterinary behavior medicine. There are also links to organizations or individuals that promote humane handling and progressive care recommendations for pets large & small.

Behavior consultations are held for the prevention and treatment of behavioral disorders in companion and other animal species. As of January of 2021 there are less than 90 board certified veterinary behaviorists in the world recognized by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists.

Before considering a behavior consultation your pet should receive a thorough physical examination by
your veterinarian to rule any problems that may be causing or contributing to a pet's abnormal behavior. If your pet is given a clean bill of health a behavior
consultation can come next.

Dogs can suffer from congestive heart failure, kidney stones and dental disease. Cats can be diabetic, lactose intolerant or epileptic. Is it surprising that they can have psychiatric disorders? If you stop and think about it, you will realize that the brain is just another organ; it can have problems just like any other part of the body.

Treatment of mood disorders in pets require a doctor-patient-owner relationship. Board certified veterinary behaviorists, unlike trainers or non-regulated "dog behaviorists," are governed by the Veterinary Practice Act of the respective state in which they are licensed, and cannot comment on potential diagnoses, treatment or prognosis of animals they have not personally examined.