Pet Behavioral Medicine

Helping Pets Overcome Behavior Challenges

Behavioral issues can be frustrating for pet owners and stressful for pets. At Whitehouse Veterinary Hospital, we provide compassionate pet behavioral medicine in Whitehouse, TX, to address concerns like aggression, anxiety, house soiling, excessive barking, and more.

What Is Pet Behavioral Medicine?

Pet behavioral medicine combines veterinary knowledge with behavior science to identify the root causes of problem behaviors and create effective treatment plans. Many behaviors are linked to underlying health issues, stress, or unmet needs.

Our veterinarians take a holistic approach — evaluating both physical health and environment — to ensure pets receive the most appropriate care.

dog barking at owner
a cat reaching up to get something off the ground

What to Expect from a Behavioral Medicine Visit

When you bring your pet in for behavior counseling, you can expect:

  • Detailed History: Discussion of your pet’s medical background, environment, and specific behavior concerns
  • Physical Examination: Ruling out medical issues that may contribute to behavior changes
  • Behavioral Assessment: Identifying triggers, patterns, and environmental factors
  • Customized Treatment Plan: May include training strategies, environmental adjustments, or medication if appropriate
  • Owner Education: Practical tools and guidance to support consistent progress at home
  • Follow-Up Care: Ongoing support and adjustments as your pet’s needs evolve

Our goal is to help pets live happier, calmer lives while strengthening the bond they share with their families.

Why Behavioral Medicine Matters

Behavior issues are one of the leading reasons pets are surrendered to shelters or rehomed. Addressing these concerns is critical for:

  • Protecting your pet’s long-term emotional and physical health
  • Reducing stress and frustration for both pets and owners
  • Strengthening the human–animal bond through better communication
  • Preventing dangerous or destructive behavior from escalating

By treating behavior challenges as medical concerns, we can provide effective, compassionate solutions.

A person sitting on a couch with their dog
An angry dog with its mouth open in front of a fence

Benefits of Pet Behavioral Medicine:

  • Calmer, more balanced pets
  • Safer, happier households
  • Increased confidence in handling and training your pet
  • Reduced risk of rehoming due to unresolved issues

Trust and Expertise in Behavior Care

The team at Whitehouse Veterinary Hospital understands that no two pets are alike. Dr. Kirk Reese and Dr. Ivy Sudduth bring years of veterinary expertise to every case, ensuring behavioral care is both medically sound and compassionate.

With experience in both traditional pets and exotic animals, they can identify underlying issues that might otherwise be overlooked. Our team also works closely with pet owners, providing hands-on education and support to make lasting changes possible.

two blue and white parakeets sitting on a bird cage

Building Better Lives Through Behavior Care

Behavioral challenges don’t have to come between you and your pet. At Whitehouse Veterinary Hospital, we are proud to help families throughout East Texas find solutions that improve daily life, reduce stress, and nurture stronger, lifelong bonds. Book your pet’s behavioral consultation today.

Pet Wellness Exams
Pet Spay & Neuter
Kitten & Puppy Care

Pet Microchipping

Pet Nutritional Counseling
Senior Pet Care
Pet Grooming
Pet Pain Management
Pet Behavioral Medicine
Pet Parasite Protection
Pet Dental Care
Pet Imaging & Diagnostics
Pet Orthopedic Surgery
Pet Allergy & Dermatology Care
Exotic Pet Care
Pet Boarding & Daycare
Pet End-of-Life Care