Peaks View Animal Hospital is commited to helping your pet be healthy. We are also commited to helping you and your pet have a healthy and enjoyable bond.
To facilitate this, Dr. Les Mulligan has amassed over 80 continuous education hours in behavior over the last 3 years. He recently completed an intensive weeklong course, Clinical Applied Behavioral Medicine, at the North American Veterinary Post Graduate Institute.
Behavioral consults can be scheduled through our receptionists.
Look for information regarding upcoming puppy socialization parties.
Dr. Les Mulligan and young feline patient
Puppy Behavior
The critical socialization period for puppies ends at 12 weeks of age. It is therefore very important to start working with puppies early and build on this foundation. Early "training" can prevent many problems in adult dogs.
Here are several key concepts/suggestions for raising puppies:
--puppies will identify with the crate
as their den or safe place.
Appropriate handling--gentle handling will create
trust and confidence in owners as positive leaders.
Try--slow firm petting/massaging
--hugging
--cradling
--handling legs and paws
If your puppy is uncomfortable or too excited to relax
during these exercises, do not force the issue.
Reward calm behavior--we tend to (intermittently or
inadvertently) reward pushy or demanding behaviors.
We should reward (through praise and food treats)
calm, attentive or relaxed behavior such as:
--sitting
--lying down
--quietly looking to owners for food,
attention or direction
