A behavior consultation often addresses but is not restricted to the following canine and feline behavior problems:

Aggression towards humans or toward other companion animals
Fears and Phobias
Separation Anxiety
Housesoiling/Litterbox Problems
Excessive Vocalization
Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors
Destructive Behavior

Consultations average about three hours in length. During this time, Dr. Chalcraft will collect information about your general history with your companion animal, the history of the problem behavior including situations that preceded and followed each incident, and what, if anything, you have done so far to try to help your companion animal. If canine aggression is the problem, Dr. Chalcraft may wish to perform an aggression test in order to further diagnose the behavior. Dr. Chalcraft will then design an individualized treatment plan, which will guide you step-by-step through the process of behavior modification for each behavior problem. Treatment plans will focus on changing your dog or cat’s perception of a stimulus from negative to positive, while managing your dog or cat’s behavior during this process. Treatment plans may call for changes in your companion animal’s environment and in your own behavior with your companion animal. Dr. Chalcraft will follow-up on each case for three months after the consultation to discuss progress, answer questions, and adjust the treatment plan, if necessary. Each treatment plan consists of humane methods only. Dr. Chalcraft will work with your veterinarian if pharmaceutical intervention is necessary.

Consultations usually take place in your home in order for Dr. Chalcraft to understand the layout of your companion animal’s environment and to meet with as many family members involved with the companion animal as possible. Consultation fees will depend on travel distances. If you prefer, however, a consultation may take place in Dr. Chalcraft’s Chicago office.

If you are interested in setting up an appointment, please call (312) 391-5537 or email: info@appliedanimalbehavior.com. Before the appointment, please download the Dog Consultation Form or Cat Consultation Form (you’ll need Acrobat Reader 6.0 or higher), fill out all applicable sections, and bring it with you to the consultation (or prior the consultation, mail to: Dr. Valerie Chalcraft, 731 W. 18th St. #11, Chicago, IL 60616).