Health & Behavior Resources

The SPCA of Northern Virginia has written articles on some very common issues for cats and dogs, as well as identified outside resources with valuable information such as the ASPCA and Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. We have also provided the names and contact information for:

  • an animal behaviorist, and
  • three veterinary behaviorists

in Virginia and Maryland who we are familiar with. These professionals, and other qualified professionals, can work one-on-one with you and your cat or dog to address issues like play aggression, separation anxiety and inappropriate urination. See information below.

Cat Resources
Dog Resources

Behavioral Assistance

Personalized Behavioral Assistance

Licensed Veterinary Behaviorists in Northern Virginia and Maryland

Tips on Finding Credible Pet Health Information Online

With the amount of information on the web, finding credible online sources for pet health and behavior can be tricky. Well-meaning individuals launch their own websites offering unfounded medical or behavioral advice for pets, and search results direct users to sites where anyone can ask and answer a question.

We recommend using online resources to supplement information you get from a trusted veterinarian, along with what you know from experience.  If your cat or dog experiences worrisome and/or persistent symptoms, the best approach is to:

  • Talk with your vet (and, where appropriate, get a second opinion);
  • Search for online resources from reputable organizations or institutions, and use more than one source to gauge differences of opinion;
  • Talk to experienced friends or coworkers; and
  • Listen to yourself based on what you know about your own cat/dog. When your cat/dog is exhibiting unusual behavior, you often know that something is wrong even when it can be challenging to figure out what is wrong and what the appropriate treatment is.

General Pet Resources