FAQs from Synergy Veterinary Behavior

Find answers to some of the most common questions about our behavior services and how Dr. Valli and her team can support your pet's behavioral needs.

Have your own questions? Ask us!

What is a Veterinary Behaviorist?

A Veterinary Behaviorist is a veterinarian with advanced training and board certification from the American College of Veterinary Behavior. Dr. Valli, a board-certified behaviorist, managed over 450 cases, completed extensive training in behavior and related fields, and published research. After passing a comprehensive exam, she earned her certification.

What types of behaviors does Dr. Valli work with?

Dr. Valli addresses behavior problems in dogs, cats, birds, and other pets. Issues include aggression, fears, phobias, house soiling, inappropriate vocalization, and destructive behaviors.

Is my pet's behavior serious enough for an appointment?

If your pet’s behavior is causing stress, disrupting your life, or poses a risk to others, an appointment with Dr. Valli is a good choice. Untreated behavior issues often worsen, so early intervention is key.

Do I need to switch trainers after seeing Dr. Valli?

You don’t need to switch trainers after a consultation. Dr. Valli welcomes your trainer’s involvement, though sometimes clients choose to work with Synergy trainers for specialized support.

Will I need to switch to Dr. Valli as my primary veterinarian?

No. Dr. Valli only treats behavior issues and works closely with your primary vet, sharing findings and recommendations to ensure comprehensive care.

Can I observe a behavior consultation?

Due to confidentiality, we don’t allow public observations of behavior consults unless invited by the client.

Why is a deposit required for behavior assessments?

A deposit ensures a tailored, efficient consultation. We spend considerable time reviewing your pet’s case in advance, which limits the number of patients we can see.

Can the initial assessment be done over the phone?

No. The Veterinary Practice Act requires an in-person visit to establish a veterinary-client-patient relationship. After the first visit, follow-up evaluations can be done online for up to a year.

What is your deposit and cancellation policy?

For more information on our deposit and cancellation policy, please check out our payment options page.

How long will treatment take?

Treatment time varies based on your pet's behavior severity, how long the issue has been present, time committed to training, emotional state, and any underlying medical conditions.

What is your success rate? Do you offer guarantees?

Success depends on many factors like behavior severity, consistency with training, and your pet’s individual response to treatment. While we can't guarantee specific outcomes, most pets see significant improvement once treatment begins.

Pet Behavior Faqs From Synergy Veterinary Behavior In Portland Or
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