Pet Behavior & Training Resources

IF YOU NOTICE A NEW, SUDDEN, OR CONCERNING CHANGE IN YOUR CAT OR DOG’S BEHAVIOR, APPETITE, THIRST, LITTER-BOX OR BATHROOM HABITS, ACTIVITY LEVEL, MOBILITY, GROOMING, OR OVERALL CONDITION, CONTACT YOUR VETERINARIAN. BEHAVIOR CHANGES CAN SOMETIMES BE RELATED TO PAIN, ILLNESS, OR ANOTHER MEDICAL CONDITION.

A pet’s behavior can change for many reasons. Pain, illness, fear, anxiety, stress, changes in routine, a new home, new people or animals in the household, changes in living conditions, loss, confinement, or a shelter environment can all affect how an animal behaves.

A pet who seems fearful, withdrawn, reactive, destructive, or unusually quiet in one environment may behave very differently once they feel safe and settled somewhere else. Behavior observed during a stressful transition does not always reflect an animal’s typical personality or long-term behavior.

If your pet develops new, sudden, or significant behavior changes, contact your veterinarian first to help rule out a medical issue or other underlying concern.

The information and resources on this page are provided for general educational purposes only. Faith Paws Partners does not diagnose medical or behavioral conditions or provide individualized veterinary or training advice.

The resources below are intended to help pet owners better understand common behavior and training concerns and identify reputable sources of additional support.

Helpful Behavior & Training Resources

ASPCA — Behavioral Help for Your Pet

Provides information about common pet behavior concerns, different types of behavior professionals, training options, and when veterinary or specialized behavioral support may be appropriate.

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Fear Free Happy Homes — Training 101

Offers educational information about positive reinforcement, training, socialization, enrichment, and understanding how everyday experiences can affect a pet’s emotions and behavior.

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Humane World for Animals — Dog Care, Behavior & Training Resources

Provides science-based information about dog behavior, training, enrichment, health, and everyday care.

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WHEN BEHAVIOR CHANGES MAY BE MEDICAL

Cornell Feline Health Center — Feline Behavior Problems: House Soiling

In-depth resource explaining the medical and behavioral reasons why cats may stop using their litter boxes and how to address it.

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VCA Animal Hospitals — How to Recognize Pain in Aging Dogs

This covers behavior changes such as reluctance to move, difficulty with stairs, changes in posture, and other signs that can indicate pain rather than “just aging.”

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Cornell Feline Health Center — The Special Needs of the Senior Cat

Reviews how to care for older cats, including monitoring for health changes, dietary adjustments, and maintaining quality of life.

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AAHA — What’s Wrong? Common Pet Pain Signs

This covers behavior/personality changes, withdrawal, irritability, fear, aggression, mobility changes, and other signs that pain may be affecting a pet. It applies to dogs and cats, but it gives the section some broader balance.

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Need Additional Behavior Support?

Some behavior concerns may require individualized support from a qualified trainer, behavior consultant, or veterinary behavior professional. Pet owners may wish to speak with their veterinarian and ask about appropriate professional resources based on their pet’s individual needs.

IAABC — Find a Behavior Consultant

Help pet owners search for qualified animal behavior consultants and other behavior professionals.

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CCPDT — Find a Certified Dog Trainer

Help pet owners search for certified professional dog trainers and behavior consultants.

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CareCredit — Veterinary Care Financing

Unexpected veterinary expenses can be difficult to manage. CareCredit is a health and wellness credit card that may be used for routine, specialty, and emergency veterinary care at participating locations. Approval is required. Pet owners should confirm that their veterinarian or emergency hospital accepts CareCredit and review all financing terms before using it.

LEARN ABOUT CARECREDIT

FIND A PROVIDER

Professional directories are provided for informational purposes only. Faith Paws Partners does not endorse or guarantee any individual trainer, consultant, organization, or service. Pet owners should review credentials, training methods, experience, and suitability for their individual pet’s needs.