Behavioral Counseling
Supporting your pet’s emotional
well-being
At South Hyland Pet Hospital, we understand that your pet’s well-being goes beyond physical health —behavior and emotional state are equally important. If you are concerned about your dog, cat, or small companion’s behavior — such as fear, anxiety, reactivity, or habits you would like to modify — our compassionate, knowledgeable team is here to help.
About our team and approach
We have skilled professionals specially focused on pet behavior — including certified trainers, Fear Free® certified staff, and experienced educators who are dedicated to helping animals feel safe, supported, and comfortable in the clinic environment.
What we believe in
- Reward-based methods rather than force or punishment.
- Science-backed, humane techniques grounded in modern behavior research and recommended by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB).
The AVSAB consists of veterinarians with advanced training in the study of animal behavior, providing valuable guidance on various topics – from puppy socialization to humane dog training. For more details and to explore their insightful position statements:
American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB)
Services we offer
- Comprehensive behavior evaluations to understand your pet’s unique challenges and create an individualized plan.
• Full physical examinations and, when indicated, lab work, x-ray’s, or medication trials to rule out underlying medical causes.
• Behavior medication consultations under veterinary supervision.
• “Comfort visits” to help anxious pets grow comfortable with the clinic environment through positive reinforcement.
• Certified trainer referrals — we only refer to force-free, reward-based professionals.
• Referrals to veterinary behaviorists when advanced expertise is needed.
To schedule an appointment or share your concerns, please complete our online behavioral questionnaire.
If you or your pet are new to us, please also complete one of our New Client or New Patient forms to provide a comprehensive understanding of your pet.
What to expect
- Assessment: We begin with a review of your pet’s health, history, behavior patterns, environment, and possible triggers.
- Recommendations: Based on our findings, we will create a customized plan that may include behavior modification, environmental adjustments, or medical support.
Ongoing support: We will check in and adjust strategies as your pet progresses, ensuring consistent, long-term improvement.
Why choose us?
- We integrate behavioral care into a comprehensive veterinary approach, addressing both emotional and medical causes.
- You will receive clear communication about what is happening, why it is necessary, and how you can help your pet at home.
- Our calm, Fear Free environment supports pets who experience stress or anxiety in clinical settings.
Ready to Schedule or Have Questions?
Call or text: (952) 884-1868
Request an Appointment: PetDesk App
Email: southhyland@southhyland.com
We look forward to helping you and your companion build confidence, comfort, and a stronger bond together.