Private Behavior Consultations

Veterinary behavior is a board certified specialty of veterinary medicine which provides the most comprehensive assessment available to your pet. Our clients have the opportunity to work with Dr. Jeannine Berger, one of few board certified behaviorists in the country. Dr. Berger is highly regarded by her clients and has successfully treated many serious behavior problems in dogs and cats.

Initial Consultation: 1.5 hours
You, your pet, and anyone in regular contact with your pet should attend the initial consultation. Includes a physical exam and behavior assessment, written evaluation, prescription therapy (if needed), training demonstration, and a custom, in-depth treatment plan. Simple email and phone follow-up is also included for up to 4 weeks.

Follow-up Consultations
If recommended, you and your pet return for an additional session to monitor progress, assess medication, or begin treatment for additional behavior problems.

Pricing
Initial Consult: $350.00
Follow-up Consults: Follow-up Consults are offered with Dr. Berger or her behavior technician. Fees are based on hourly rates and will vary according to each pet's specific needs.

Before the Appointment
Download and complete the form that best suits your pet’s primary behavior problem from the 4 options below. Return your form by hand, fax, or email at least 48 hours before your appointment.

• Cat Soiling Behavior
• All Other Cat Behavior
• Two Dogs Fighting in a Household
• All Other Dog Behavior

Email: intakeforms@sfspca.org
Fax: (415) 962-2495

Read more about Dr. Berger.

American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior warning:
**** Pet owners are advised to use caution when seeking someone to train a pet or treat one's behavior problem. At present, there are no licensing or experience requirements to use the terms trainer, pet behavior counselor, or behaviorist. Many commonly used training techniques can actually worsen a problem and cause harm to a pet. We recommend speaking with your veterinarian and/or a board certified veterinary behaviorist to diagnose and treat behavior problems. For more information, please refer to the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior article (99.8 KB PDF) about selecting the appropriate behavior support for your pet.