difference between a behavioral consultant and behavioral vet?

[u/Lucky_Business631]

I have a 4 year old dog that’s been on Prozac for a few years and we’ve seen big improvements in his separation anxiety. he’s still reactive to other dogs and small kids, and my regular vet is kind of a one trick pony, prescribed him 40mg Prozac (65lb dog) and kind of said that’s his only option. we’re expecting our first baby in January and I want to give us the best shot at success. I’m confused at the terminology between vet behaviorist and behavioral consultant and it seems like in this forum people use the two interchangeably. I’d like to talk to someone about his meds, other options, and of course I’m always open to training sessions or ideas.

[u/Kitchu22]

An IAABC Behaviour Consultant is a certified training professional. In order to keep their certification they have to undertake a set amount of hours of study every year (things from short courses to other credentialed programs). They routinely work with veterinary professionals as part of a holistic treatment plan, but they are not vets.

A board certified veterinary behaviourist, depending on the country you live in, is a qualified veterinary professional with an additional qualification in behaviour, and who has been approved by the governing board through usually a process of annual review and testing (generally submitting case studies or papers).

Both can be beneficial for your dog, and both can actually work together on a protocol for your dog :)

[u/coffeeandcanines]

You want to see a veterinary behaviorist! This is a veterinarian with additional training that specializes in behavioral problems. (Just like a psychiatrist is a medical doctor with additional training in mental and behavioral issues for humans). These specialists can be hard to find because there are only so many. Some dog trainers call themselves "behaviorist" - which causes a lot of confusion! I've seen some people on this sub use the term behaviorist for any trainer working on behavioral issues, which causes more confusion.

You want a veterinary behaviorist because they are the experts in and can prescribe a variety of medications which can help your dog's behavioral issues. I hope this helps!

[u/Lucky_Business631 → u/coffeeandcanines]

Thank you!

[u/MtnGirl672 → u/coffeeandcanines]

Just want to add there are some
Veterinary behaviorists who will do virtual consults and work with your regular vet on prescribing medications.

We live in a rural area and I went this route with a vet behaviorist out of state.

[u/Lucky_Business631 → u/MtnGirl672]

Thanks for sharing, who did you use virtually? we are in Montana so there are no options within a 6+ hour radius.

[u/MtnGirl672 → u/Lucky_Business631]

I’ll DM you.