Read Our Blog from the Synergy Veterinary Behavior Team!

Welcome to our blog! Here, we share expert insights, tips, and the latest updates on animal behavior, training, and veterinary care. Whether you're looking for advice or simply curious about the science behind your pet's actions, you'll find valuable information to help you and your furry, feathered, or scaly companions.

Why does my pet do that?

Have you ever wondered how your dog or cat figures out how to do what? It is because of two types of learning that they are especially good at: associative learning, and learning by consequence.

When working with companion animals, regardless of whether you are teaching obedience cues, working on tricks, or addressing complex behavior problems, understanding the way they learn will make the process easier and more successful.

Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on my Head

At my house, neither of my dogs are big fans of the rain, but it has never really been that big of an issue. That is, until the last major rain storm. For whatever reason, Ferrous took one look at the downpour and refused to leave the shelter of our tiny patio.

Vacuum Your Dog

As the owner of two German Shepherds, affectionately known as German Shedders, I have become a bit of a fanatic about vacuuming. During the last big shed, it occurred to me that maybe I was attacking the problem from the wrong end. Instead of vacuuming the floors and furniture so often, maybe I should be vacuuming the dogs!

Holiday Hints for Keeping Pets Safe

Holidays are a fun time to meet up with friends and family. It’s also a great time for your important to think of your pet during this time. Here are some simple tips and ideas to make the holidays enjoyable for everyone.

Happy Howl-o-Ween! Halloween Pet Safety

When I was young, Halloween was one of my favorite celebrations. Not so much because of the candy (although it was definitely a bonus) but because of the chance to be someone (or something) completely different from my usual everyday self. It’s a great time to play with costume make-up, wear funky clothing, and put…

And so it begins…

Welcome to Synergy Behavior and Beyond. 🙂 As we enter the blogosphere, we are excited to share with you a wide variety of subjects about behavior and training and about having a pet in the Portland area. Since all of our staff are going to participate, the postings are bound to be interesting and vary…