Problem pet behaviors, such as house soiling or aggression, can be frustrating to pet owners. Without veterinary oversight, pet owners may make these problems worse with punishment or behavior reinforcement. Instead of a trip to the veterinary clinic for treatment, "problem" pets may end up abandoned or surrendered to a shelter, often leading to euthanasia.

The most common behavior problems in cats include:

• Aggression
• Stress
• Urine marking
• Scratching
• Tension in multi-cat households

Dogs’ behavior problems often manifest:

• Aggression
• Separation anxiety
• Fear and phobias
• Jumping up
• House soiling

According to the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB) and Ceva Animal Health, these behaviors can be treated, keeping pets with their families.

"Pet owners need to discuss these and any other behavior issues with their veterinarian sooner rather than later," says Debra Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, a veterinarian and diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists. "Veterinarians can help diagnose the problem and offer medically-sound treatment options so pet owners address the behavior issue before it becomes overwhelming."

Free booth at a pet fair near you
The ACVB and Ceva Animal Health have partnered together for the Keep the L.O.V.E. Alive Behavior Express 2012 Tour. The six-city event in Chicago, Ill., New York City, Kansas City, Mo., Dallas, Atlanta, Ga., and Los Angeles, aims to reinforce the role of veterinarians in addressing pet behavior issues. Free educational booths are available to local veterinarians who register. For more information, go to www.KeepTheLoveAliveTour.com.