Behavioural issues in animals can be complex and challenging for both pet owners and their furry companions. Whether it’s separation anxiety, aggression, or compulsive behaviours, understanding the root causes and implementing effective solutions requires expertise and insight. This is where animal behaviourists play a crucial role. In this blog post, we’ll delve into why behavioural issues occur, what behaviourists look at, and how they serve both animals and their owners.
Why Behavioural Issues Occur:
Behavioural issues in animals can stem from a variety of factors, including genetics, environmental influences, past experiences, trauma, or underlying health conditions to name but a few.
It is no longer debatable that animals have rich emotional lives. Just like humans, they experience stress, fear, anxiety, and depression, which may manifest in problematic behaviours. One common underlying factor contributing to behavioural issues in animals is unmet needs.
Animals don’t just have basic needs such as food, water, and shelter, but they also need companionship, friendships, exploration, hunting, foraging, mental stimulation, physical exercise, environmental enrichment, and healthcare. When these needs are not adequately fulfilled, animals may exhibit undesirable behaviours aimed at seeking attention, alleviating boredom, or addressing their frustration and discomfort.
What Behaviorists Look At:
Understanding the root causes of behavioural issues requires a comprehensive approach that considers various factors. Animal behaviourists delve deep into the animal’s history, environment, and individual characteristics to identify triggers and patterns contributing to the problem behaviour. They recognize that behaviour is multifaceted and influenced by a combination of genetic predispositions, emotions, and environmental factors.
In addition to behavioural assessment and intervention, animal behaviourists have expertise in various related areas, including diet, nutrition, gut health, and basic pharmacology. They understand learning theory, the role of neurochemicals involved in behaviour, and the therapeutic models used in modifying behaviour. By integrating this knowledge into their practice, they offer holistic solutions aimed at improving the welfare and well-being of animals, and employ a range of techniques and methodologies to assess and address behavioural issues in animals.
How We Serve:
Based on their assessments, behaviourists look for the underlying causes of behavioural issues, and develop individualised treatment plans tailored to the specific needs of the animal. These plans may include behaviour modification techniques, training, environmental modifications, over-the-counter treatments or supplements, and lifestyle changes aimed at addressing the root causes of the behavioural problem. Where pharmacological intervention is needed, they will refer you to a veterinary practitioner.
Behaviourists work closely with owners to implement behaviour modification programs and/or may directly work with the animal to address certain behaviours. They may also provide expert consultation to veterinarians or specialised trainers to assist with complex behavioural cases.
Behaviourists strive to improve the lives of animals and foster positive interactions and bonds between pets and their caregivers. By understanding the complex interplay of factors influencing behaviour, they provide valuable support and guidance to pet owners, helping them navigate and overcome behavioural challenges effectively.
Contact any qualified COAPE behaviourist is your area if you reside in South Africa. A directory of behaviourist can be found on the COAPE website.
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