Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: For which species do you accept appointments?

A: Our doctors accept appointments for dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, ferrets, monkeys, exotics and small mammals.

Q: How do I know if you can help my pet?

A: Many pet parents feel that their pet’s problem is unique and are concerned that it is so severe or rare that it cannot be treated. Rest assured that most pet behavior problems can be treated and that our doctors have seen most behavior problems previously. Before your pet is evaluated, we can’t tell you how your pet’s exact problem will be treated. While every problem cannot be cured, many problems can be treated and managed so that the pet and the pet parents have a better quality of life. If you would like to read other people’s experiences, visit our Testimonials or Facebook page.

Q: Why do I have to fill out the pre-appointment questionnaire?

A: There are at least 5 players in any behavior case: the pet, the pet’s health, the environment, the animals and people with whom the pet interacts, and what the pet has learned over the course of his or her life. In order to solve the mystery, information should be gathered on all players. If that information was taken at the time of the appointment, the appointment would take roughly an hour longer, increasing the cost of the appointment as well. The pre-appointment questionnaire contains essential information in an easily readable form. It is reviewed by our doctors prior to the appointment so that the appointment time can be used more effectively.

Q: Are recheck appointments necessary?

A: Recheck appointments may be necessary depending on the animal’s specific diagnosis, the severity and chronicity of the pet’s disorder, the pet parent’s goals, and the course of treatment. When you meet with our doctors they will assess your pet and discuss whether rechecks will be necessary.

Q: What should I bring to my appointment?

A: If multiple animals are involved in the problem, then appointments for all animals will need to be scheduled at the same time and all animals involved will need an assessment. Also, bring your pet’s favorite treat, bed, and/or toy.

Q: I am concerned about my pet waiting in the waiting room. What can I do?

A: When you make your appointment, tell the Client Care Representative your concern. We will make arrangements to meet you outside and walk your pet through the lobby into the examination room if necessary.

Q: What should I do before the appointment?

A: Prior to your appointment, fill out a questionnaire for each pet that is involved in the problem behavior. You can download a questionnaire by clicking here. If you would like the questionnaire mailed, emailed, or faxed to you contact us by phone (561-795-9398) or email. It is best if the questionnaire is received 3 days prior to your pet’s appointment. You can return your pet’s questionnaire by fax (561-795-8537), mail (3421 Forest Hill Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33406), or email ([email protected]). Video your pet’s undesirable behavior if it is safe to do so and bring it with you to the appointment or send it to us by email. Do not provoke aggressive behavior or do anything that may cause you, your pet, someone else, or someone else’s pet harm in order to make the video. Finally, call your pet’s primary care veterinarian and ask that your pet’s medical records be faxed to FVBS at 561-795-8537.

Q: Do I have to get a video of my pet’s behavior to be seen for an appointment?

A: No. You do not have to have a video of your pet’s behavior to be seen for an appointment. Actually, we would rather you not get one if you have to provoke aggressive behavior to do so. It is helpful to see the actual behavior and the environment in which the pet lives, but it is not absolutely necessary.

Q: Do you serve as an expert witness?

A: Yes, some of our doctors serve as expert witnesses in court cases. Call our office to find out more about which doctors do this.

Q: Do you evaluate pets for court cases?

A: Yes, all of our doctors routinely evaluate pets and write evaluations for court cases.

Q: What happens during an initial appointment with one of your behavior doctors?

A: Initial appointments typically last 1-1.5 hours and include history taking, evaluation of videos or photos, overall health evaluation, assessment, treatment plan explanation and diagnostic recommendations.

Q: What if I need to reschedule or cancel my appointment?

A: If you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment, call or text our office at 561-795-9398. If your pet is scheduled for an assessment, 2 business days notice is required in order to refund the deposit.