CVMA public information push targets pet behavior

Sacramento, CA - 10/12/06 - Bad behavior is the most common reason pets are surrenderedby owners to other homes or shelters, according to the California VeterinaryMedical Association (CVMA). It has bred a public information campaign by CVMAofficials.

"We urge pet owners to see a veterinarian first when bad behavior surfacesbecause a veterinarian can determine whether a medical problem is contributingto the behavior problem," reports CVMA President Ron Faoro, DVM. "Veterinarianscan diagnose medical conditions and recommend proper treatment. In cases wherethere is not a contributing health factor, veterinarians may refer the pet ownerto a board-certified veterinary behavior specialist for therapy."

"Early intervention is key for a pet owner when it comes to preventing adog or cat's behavior problems," adds Melissa Bain, DVM, faculty atUC-Davis' Veterinary Medical Hospital and one of California's sixboard-certified veterinary behaviorists. "Puppies need to be socializedand trained at an early age. After 14 weeks socialization becomes more difficult.For cats, litter training is also an important step in preventing problems."