Veterinary Behavior Nurse

06/01/2026

06/01/2026

When a dog is described as “not food-motivated,” it can frustrate efforts to use positive reinforcement effectively. Caring for an unreliable eater can be stressful for everyone involved.

06/01/2026

Sometimes we do too much with our dogs. 🐕

Whether it's repeating cues like a broken record, micro-managing how they exist on leash or in our home, or setting too-high expectations for behavior(s) that aren't nailed, we're all guilty of this at times!

All of these situations risk increasing a dog's stress, setting them up for "failure", increasing our own frustration, or undoing progress we've already made. Or all of the above!

Having a "less is more" approach can teach us patience. Preserving a dog's agency and ability to make appropriate choices helps reduce stress and better meet their needs.

06/01/2026

The medication that you are looking for, that doesn't sedate your pet or change your pet's personality, but magically completely changes the part of their personality that is fearful, distressed and panicked doesn't exist.

I know we all want it to.

I know how exhausting it is to live with a pet who is struggling.

I know how badly you want relief for them and for you.

But here’s the truth:

Medication is support, not a cure.
It lowers the volume, but doesn't cure the underlying fear, anxiety and stress.

Medication is necessary for many pets to live in the scary world that we created, but medication cannot completely remove fear from your pet's life without any other actions on your part.

The best progress comes from the combination of:
👉The right medication (when needed)
👉Behavior modification
👉Avoidance through changes in the environment.

Treating systemic disease and illness.
👉Time, consistency, and follow-up

If your pet is on medication and the intensity, frequency and recovery are improving and they still have their same wonderful personality, you are on track most likely.

05/30/2026

05/30/2026

Why are cats the masters of balance? It might look like magic, but it’s actually incredible feline science!

🐾 Their super sensitive paw pads are packed with nerve endings that constantly send messages to their brain about what they’re touching, helping them adjust their balance with precision.

🐈 Their tail moves left to right to counterbalance whilst they climb or walk along narrow surfaces.

🐱 Cats are also incredibly flexible because they lack a rigid collarbone, allowing their shoulders to move freely and their paws to step perfectly in line.

If their balance is slightly off, they also have a built-in ability called the ‘righting reflex’. When they start to fall, sensors in their inner ear detect which way is up, allowing them to twist mid-air and land on their paws. Their flexible spine lets them rotate the front and back halves of their body separately, while stretching their legs to absorb impact when they land.

Despite this amazing ability, it’s a myth that cats always land on their feet. As they get older, they may struggle more with their balance.

Find out about helping your cat avoid injuries from falls 👉 https://icatcare.org/articles/high-rise-cats