Who Can Help You
If you have any concerns or questions regarding your adopted Chi's habits or behaviors and need help in addressing them, your first call should be to the breed rescue or shelter from which you adopted your Chihuahua. These folks have heard just about everything when it comes to unusual or problematic behaviors. They also have solutions to the majority of your Chi tribulations.
If you didn't adopt your Chihuahua from a breed rescue, you can still call a local, regional, or national Chi rescue for advice and help. These people are experts in problem solving, specifically for the Chihuahua breed. There's nothing more they like to do than to help a rescued Chi become a better family member.
If you don't get satisfaction from these sources, or if the situation is more complex, there are several other ways to find the help you need. These professionals include veterinary behaviorists, animal behaviorists, and trainers.
Veterinary Behaviorists
This individual is not only a degreed doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) but is also a diplomate, or board-certified specialist, of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB). To find a veterinary behaviorist, visit the American Veterinary Medical Association Web site, online at www.avma.org.
Veterinary Behavior Consultant
Many veterinarians have an interest in animal behavior but are not board certified through the ACVB. What these veterinarians do have is an in-depth knowledge of behavior, behavior-modification training, and medical therapies. If your veterinarian does not have a special interest in behavior, ask for a referral to someone who is respected in your area. You can also contact the AVMA for a referral to a veterinary behavior consultant. Also visit the Animal Hospital Association of America Web site, at www.aahanet.org.
Animal Behaviorists
The certified animal behaviorist holds a Ph.D. in animal behavior and is certified through the Animal Behavior Society (ABS). Certified animal behaviorists can be located by visiting the ABS Web site, online at www.animalbehavior.org/ABS.
Many individuals call themselves behavioral experts, animal behaviorists, or any number of other titles. Be wary of anyone who presents himself as specializing in behavior if he has had no educational training in this area or is not certified.
Trainers
To find an accomplished trainer who is good at solving behavioral challenges, contact your veterinarian, breed rescue, shelter, breeder, and other canine-savvy individuals for referrals. You may also try visiting the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) Web site, online at www.apdt.com.
