Frequently Asked Questions
Browse this page to find information like what it takes to become a Veterinary Behaviorist, our methods and success rates, weekend and house call policies, where to get medication and more.
Do I really need a Veterinary Behaviorist?
If your veterinarian or trainer referred you to a veterinary behaviorist, you need one. At our Initial Assessment appointment, if it seems like your pet needs a trainer rather than a veterinary behaviorist, we’ll be sure to refer you to an excellent trainer. We’ll call them, introduce your pet’s situation to them, and make sure they are on board and comfortable with the case.
What is a Veterinary Behaviorist?
Veterinary behaviorists are specially trained and dedicated to managing behavior problems and improving the well-being of animals. And we're a rare breed. There is only one practicing veterinary behaviorist in New York City, and less than 60 across the US. ONLY veterinarians certified by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists can call themselves “Veterinary Behaviorists.”
Veterinary Behaviorists can legally diagnose behavior problems, assess medical complications, and prescribe or advise you and your support team about medications that could be helpful for your pet. Certain medical treatments recommended by Dr. C require additional governmental approvals that not all veterinarians have. If you are speaking to or reading information from any other animal behaviorist in NYC and note that they mention prescribing or advising you about medications, you should know that they are practicing veterinary medicine without a license.
For more information about different behavior professionals click on the link below:
http://www.avsabonline.org For more information check out dacvb.org or avsabonline.org.
Is consulting with a Veterinary Behaviorist expensive?
It's not cheap, but we think it's worth it. We try to make the cost manageable by offering treatment package plans. Each family has it’s own specific history and requires a different level of care. At your initial assessment, Dr. Christensen can discuss the level of support that your family needs for the best outcome.
Why does it cost more than seeing my regular veterinarian?
By the minute, veterinary behaviorists are actually much less expensive than general practice veterinarians, but the amount of time a veterinary behaviorist spends personally managing each case is much higher than a general practice veterinarian. Additionally, veterinary behaviorists have the highest level of behavioral expertise in veterinary medicine.
What does it take to be a Veterinary Behaviorist?
Board certification requires the following training:
What training does a trainer or other animal behavior specialist need?
None. Scary right? Board-certified veterinarians are the only professionally licensed animal behaviorists. There are some amazing and well-educated trainers out there, but there are also many that are not rigorously or academically trained. So you really need to know your stuff to find an exceptional behavior modification trainer.
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior offers excellent tips on finding a good trainer. Visit www.avsabonline.org
What methods are used to treat pet patients?
Veterinary behaviorists use the science of learning and ethology (scientific knowledge of species-specific behavior) to help clients improve their pet’s behavior. Our methods are non-confrontational, humane, and designed to decrease household stress and improve the human-animal bond. If you have specific activities that you enjoy doing with your pet (like having him/her sleep in your bed) be aware that we will work with you to keep the activities you love as part of the treatment plan if at all possible.
What should I bring to the Treatment Plan Appointment?
What should I bring to the Comprehensive Appointment?
Since the Comprehensive Appointment is a combination -
How much time will be needed daily to implement my pet’s plan?
You’d be surprised by how much improvement you can see with a few changes to your daily interaction patterns with your pet. You should plan to spend at least 15 minutes/day working on behavior modification games in order to see the best success. Of course, in general, the more committed you are to working, the faster and more robust your improvements will be.
What’s the success rate for behavior cases?
Most families seeking help with veterinary behaviorists see improvements in the intensity and frequency of their pets’ behavioral issues. However, success is really defined by each individual family. Statistical success rates vary by the specific problem that each animal has and his/her family’s willingness to implement a complete treatment plan. While it does happen, it’s uncommon for patients not to improve or to worsen in spite of treatment.
Do you guarantee your success rates or my satisfaction?
We guarantee that we treat our clients professionally, respectfully, and honestly, and we treat our patients compassionately and humanely. But no ethical animal behaviorist guarantees success because behavior is much too complex and variable to do so.
Unfortunately, sometimes we have to tell people things they don’t want to hear. This is most likely if your pet poses a risk to him/herself or others. You’re paying us to give you our honest professional perspective. We can’t hold back just because we don’t want to make waves or seem unfriendly.
If you feel like our level of service hasn’t met your expectations, we truly hope you’ll let us know. We are committed to constantly improving the service to meet our clients’ needs.
If I've already had my pet evaluated by other trainers or behaviorists, will your plan be different?
Good question! We won't know until we sit down and really get into the details of previous plans you've tried. We may suggest few or small changes (sometimes these can make a big difference) or we may recommend a completely different plan. It's possible the previous information you received makes good scientific sense, but the plan was incorrectly or incompletely implemented for a variety of reasons.
If you've implemented other behavior modification techniques and things aren't better, we're here to help. We can develop new options or refine previous strategies that just need a little tweaking for improved success.
We can also discuss any barriers you may have faced in trying to implement previous plans. Behavior modification plans can feel overwhelming and confusing. In addition, you may have been asked to try techniques that don't feel comfortable for you. Let's talk about it, look at the science, and see what we can do together!
How much active training will we be doing at the consult?
That depends. We design our treatment plans in concert with you. Because of this, initial consults are more like family counseling than seeing a dog trainer. We are happy to demonstrate and practice behavior modification techniques that make sense for your pet. Just let us know if you'd like to do that. Some of our clients are extremely adept at behavior modification and don't need or want demonstrations. Others are brand new at training and behavior modification and want to practice with a professional. If you'd like videos of how to teach behavior cues, let us know. There are many free videos available to help coach you while you are at home.
Many dogs seeing veterinary behaviorists are actually very well trained; they just can't respond as their families hope in trigger situations. But even if your dog doesn't know basic obedience, you could still see success with a behavior modification plan. There are many very easy-to-teach cues that can be helpful when implementing a behavior modification plan. Usually each animal only needs to learn a few to get started. More cues are added to the plan when you and your pet are ready.
Do you make house calls?
Absolutely! But, due to time constraints, only in Manhattan below 90th Street. Many clients feel that if you can’t see the animal in his/her environment, you won’t be able to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. But you’d be surprised by what we can accomplish with in-hospital appointments. If you provide a detailed history, some video, and a sketch of your floor plan we will most likely be able to get you the same outcome as if your pet had been seen in your home. We’re very happy to see you either way.
Do you work with trainers?
All of the time. We love working with exceptional behavior modification trainers. If you would like a trainer to support you as you work, please allow us to refer you to an appropriate support person. Most trainers are not skilled enough to make hiring them worth your money. A few are worth their weight in gold. Remember, exceptional behavior modification trainers generally charge more for their services than regular trainers. They document their sessions and stay in frequent contact with us. Keep in mind though - session price is NOT an accurate indicator of skill/knowledge level.
Do you see other species besides cats and dogs?
We’re thrilled to see other species! Veterinary behaviorists are trained to treat behavior problems in all species including pocket pets, birds, exotic pets, horses, pigs, cows, sheep, goats, etc. You’ll need a special history form for your pet. Call us to schedule an Initial Assessment, and we’ll get you on your way to a better relationship with your special friend.
Are you available for emergencies and/or urgent care?
If you have a medical emergency, you should call your regular veterinarian or our emergency provider, NYC Veterinary Specialists (212-767-0099).
If your pet is a current patient of Dr. Christensen’s, you may leave an urgent message for her after hours at 646-295-2452. She will call you back within 4 hours. If you don't hear back from her, please call back because she didn’t get the message. Please note, this number is for urgent situations only (situations that aren't emergencies but cannot wait until she returns to the office). Do not use it in a true medical emergency (such as a medication overdose) because there may be a delay between when you leave a message and when she will be able to call you back.
True behavior emergencies are very rare and can be stabilized by most veterinarians in primary care or at emergency centers. If you need emergency help with a behavior problem, you should contact your primary care veterinarian or our emergency provider (NYC Veterinary Specialists).
If you need an urgent behavior consult and you have never seen Dr. Christensen before, please call 646-434-1361 and let us know that you need an urgent consult. We are happy to see if you if we can make the schedule work. Since urgent appointments require us to juggle the schedule around significantly, there is an additional fee of $400.
If my pet needs medication to help a behavior problem, where will I get it?
This depends on what medication your pet takes. If your pet is on a brand-name medication for animals, you will need to get this medication through Dr. Christensen or your regular veterinarian.
Do I really need a Veterinary Behaviorist?
If your veterinarian or trainer referred you to a veterinary behaviorist, you need one. At our Initial Assessment appointment, if it seems like your pet needs a trainer rather than a veterinary behaviorist, we’ll be sure to refer you to an excellent trainer. We’ll call them, introduce your pet’s situation to them, and make sure they are on board and comfortable with the case.
What is a Veterinary Behaviorist?
Veterinary behaviorists are specially trained and dedicated to managing behavior problems and improving the well-being of animals. And we're a rare breed. There is only one practicing veterinary behaviorist in New York City, and less than 60 across the US. ONLY veterinarians certified by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists can call themselves “Veterinary Behaviorists.”
Veterinary Behaviorists can legally diagnose behavior problems, assess medical complications, and prescribe or advise you and your support team about medications that could be helpful for your pet. Certain medical treatments recommended by Dr. C require additional governmental approvals that not all veterinarians have. If you are speaking to or reading information from any other animal behaviorist in NYC and note that they mention prescribing or advising you about medications, you should know that they are practicing veterinary medicine without a license.
For more information about different behavior professionals click on the link below:
http://www.avsabonline.org For more information check out dacvb.org or avsabonline.org.
Is consulting with a Veterinary Behaviorist expensive?
It's not cheap, but we think it's worth it. We try to make the cost manageable by offering treatment package plans. Each family has it’s own specific history and requires a different level of care. At your initial assessment, Dr. Christensen can discuss the level of support that your family needs for the best outcome.
Why does it cost more than seeing my regular veterinarian?
By the minute, veterinary behaviorists are actually much less expensive than general practice veterinarians, but the amount of time a veterinary behaviorist spends personally managing each case is much higher than a general practice veterinarian. Additionally, veterinary behaviorists have the highest level of behavioral expertise in veterinary medicine.
What does it take to be a Veterinary Behaviorist?
Board certification requires the following training:
- Undergrad (3-4 years)
- Veterinary School (4 years)
- Internship (1 year)
- Residency (3 years, usually at an academic institution)
- Publish at least 1 original research paper.
- Get 3 original case reports approved by a committee of board-certified veterinary behaviorists.
- Pass an extensive examination that covers all species.
What training does a trainer or other animal behavior specialist need?
None. Scary right? Board-certified veterinarians are the only professionally licensed animal behaviorists. There are some amazing and well-educated trainers out there, but there are also many that are not rigorously or academically trained. So you really need to know your stuff to find an exceptional behavior modification trainer.
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior offers excellent tips on finding a good trainer. Visit www.avsabonline.org
What methods are used to treat pet patients?
Veterinary behaviorists use the science of learning and ethology (scientific knowledge of species-specific behavior) to help clients improve their pet’s behavior. Our methods are non-confrontational, humane, and designed to decrease household stress and improve the human-animal bond. If you have specific activities that you enjoy doing with your pet (like having him/her sleep in your bed) be aware that we will work with you to keep the activities you love as part of the treatment plan if at all possible.
What should I bring to the Treatment Plan Appointment?
- YOU! You are an important part of helping your pet. Please do not send staff members or friends to represent you at your appointment.
- Your pet (on leash or in a carrier)
- Medical records from your primary care veterinarian.
- A completed history form
- Any written training plans/notes from previous trainers or behaviorists
- Your pet’s favorite treats, toys, or games
- Your pet’s previous training tools (leashes, collars, muzzles, etc)
- Dogs that have bitten people or other animals should wear a muzzle until they get into the clinic room and Dr C gives the OK.
- Video of the behavior problem (NOTE: DO THIS ONLY IF YOU CAN GET THE FOOTAGE WITHOUT CREATING A RISKY SITUATION FOR OTHER PEOPLE OR ANIMALS.)
What should I bring to the Comprehensive Appointment?
Since the Comprehensive Appointment is a combination -
- Everything listed for the Initial Assessment Appointment.
- Everything listed for the Treatment Plan Appointment.
How much time will be needed daily to implement my pet’s plan?
You’d be surprised by how much improvement you can see with a few changes to your daily interaction patterns with your pet. You should plan to spend at least 15 minutes/day working on behavior modification games in order to see the best success. Of course, in general, the more committed you are to working, the faster and more robust your improvements will be.
What’s the success rate for behavior cases?
Most families seeking help with veterinary behaviorists see improvements in the intensity and frequency of their pets’ behavioral issues. However, success is really defined by each individual family. Statistical success rates vary by the specific problem that each animal has and his/her family’s willingness to implement a complete treatment plan. While it does happen, it’s uncommon for patients not to improve or to worsen in spite of treatment.
Do you guarantee your success rates or my satisfaction?
We guarantee that we treat our clients professionally, respectfully, and honestly, and we treat our patients compassionately and humanely. But no ethical animal behaviorist guarantees success because behavior is much too complex and variable to do so.
Unfortunately, sometimes we have to tell people things they don’t want to hear. This is most likely if your pet poses a risk to him/herself or others. You’re paying us to give you our honest professional perspective. We can’t hold back just because we don’t want to make waves or seem unfriendly.
If you feel like our level of service hasn’t met your expectations, we truly hope you’ll let us know. We are committed to constantly improving the service to meet our clients’ needs.
If I've already had my pet evaluated by other trainers or behaviorists, will your plan be different?
Good question! We won't know until we sit down and really get into the details of previous plans you've tried. We may suggest few or small changes (sometimes these can make a big difference) or we may recommend a completely different plan. It's possible the previous information you received makes good scientific sense, but the plan was incorrectly or incompletely implemented for a variety of reasons.
If you've implemented other behavior modification techniques and things aren't better, we're here to help. We can develop new options or refine previous strategies that just need a little tweaking for improved success.
We can also discuss any barriers you may have faced in trying to implement previous plans. Behavior modification plans can feel overwhelming and confusing. In addition, you may have been asked to try techniques that don't feel comfortable for you. Let's talk about it, look at the science, and see what we can do together!
How much active training will we be doing at the consult?
That depends. We design our treatment plans in concert with you. Because of this, initial consults are more like family counseling than seeing a dog trainer. We are happy to demonstrate and practice behavior modification techniques that make sense for your pet. Just let us know if you'd like to do that. Some of our clients are extremely adept at behavior modification and don't need or want demonstrations. Others are brand new at training and behavior modification and want to practice with a professional. If you'd like videos of how to teach behavior cues, let us know. There are many free videos available to help coach you while you are at home.
Many dogs seeing veterinary behaviorists are actually very well trained; they just can't respond as their families hope in trigger situations. But even if your dog doesn't know basic obedience, you could still see success with a behavior modification plan. There are many very easy-to-teach cues that can be helpful when implementing a behavior modification plan. Usually each animal only needs to learn a few to get started. More cues are added to the plan when you and your pet are ready.
Do you make house calls?
Absolutely! But, due to time constraints, only in Manhattan below 90th Street. Many clients feel that if you can’t see the animal in his/her environment, you won’t be able to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. But you’d be surprised by what we can accomplish with in-hospital appointments. If you provide a detailed history, some video, and a sketch of your floor plan we will most likely be able to get you the same outcome as if your pet had been seen in your home. We’re very happy to see you either way.
Do you work with trainers?
All of the time. We love working with exceptional behavior modification trainers. If you would like a trainer to support you as you work, please allow us to refer you to an appropriate support person. Most trainers are not skilled enough to make hiring them worth your money. A few are worth their weight in gold. Remember, exceptional behavior modification trainers generally charge more for their services than regular trainers. They document their sessions and stay in frequent contact with us. Keep in mind though - session price is NOT an accurate indicator of skill/knowledge level.
Do you see other species besides cats and dogs?
We’re thrilled to see other species! Veterinary behaviorists are trained to treat behavior problems in all species including pocket pets, birds, exotic pets, horses, pigs, cows, sheep, goats, etc. You’ll need a special history form for your pet. Call us to schedule an Initial Assessment, and we’ll get you on your way to a better relationship with your special friend.
Are you available for emergencies and/or urgent care?
If you have a medical emergency, you should call your regular veterinarian or our emergency provider, NYC Veterinary Specialists (212-767-0099).
If your pet is a current patient of Dr. Christensen’s, you may leave an urgent message for her after hours at 646-295-2452. She will call you back within 4 hours. If you don't hear back from her, please call back because she didn’t get the message. Please note, this number is for urgent situations only (situations that aren't emergencies but cannot wait until she returns to the office). Do not use it in a true medical emergency (such as a medication overdose) because there may be a delay between when you leave a message and when she will be able to call you back.
True behavior emergencies are very rare and can be stabilized by most veterinarians in primary care or at emergency centers. If you need emergency help with a behavior problem, you should contact your primary care veterinarian or our emergency provider (NYC Veterinary Specialists).
If you need an urgent behavior consult and you have never seen Dr. Christensen before, please call 646-434-1361 and let us know that you need an urgent consult. We are happy to see if you if we can make the schedule work. Since urgent appointments require us to juggle the schedule around significantly, there is an additional fee of $400.
If my pet needs medication to help a behavior problem, where will I get it?
This depends on what medication your pet takes. If your pet is on a brand-name medication for animals, you will need to get this medication through Dr. Christensen or your regular veterinarian.
- Prescriptions requested between 9 AM Monday- and 5 PM Thursday are filled within 24 hours.
- Prescriptions that are requested between 5 PM Thurs and 9 AM Monday wlll be filled by Monday at 9PM.
- If your pet is on a controlled substance, such as phenobarbital, alprazolam/Xanax, diazepam/Valium, clonazepam/Klonopin, etc you will need a special prescription due to governmental regulations. These prescriptions require a specific paper prescription slip that you will give to your local human pharmacy. Refills are not allowed on these scripts, and the scripts can only be written for 30 days worth of medication. These medications cannot be called into a pharmacy except in emergencies.
- Because controlled substances prescriptions require such special handling, you should email/call us for a refill no less than 7 days before you will run out of this medication. This is especially important if your pet is on this type of medication every day because he/she cannot be taken off of the medication abruptly without the potential for side effects.
Veterinary Behavior Consultations of NYC
p/f 646.434.1361 email drcdvm@gmail.com
p/f 646.434.1361 email drcdvm@gmail.com
