Behavioral
Training

Behavioral Training

Illness doesn’t always have a physical cause. We can refer you and your pet to a trained animal behaviorist who helps determine the cause of such disorders as separation anxiety and obsessive behavior, and then develop a treatment regimen for the client.

Dog Training and Animal Training in Tampa

Our dog training partners will provide you with the guidance you need for the proper raising and care of your canine companion. We teach both you and your dog. You will learn patience, praise, repetition and communication with your dog.  Your dog will learn obedience, right from wrong, and what is expected of him or her through the use of love, praise and positive reinforcement.

The following list of individuals are options for referring clients with pets with behavior
modification and/or training needs:

Soraya V. Juarbe-Diaz, DVM, DACVB

Veterinary Behaviorist in west central Florida
Website: drjddvm.com
Email: drjdwebmaster@hotmail.com
Dr. Juarbe-Diaz has the longest established behavior referral practice in the state of Florida. Known as Dr. JD to owners throughout the state, she received a B.S. in biology in 1983 and her D.V.M. degree in 1987 both from Cornell University. She was in mixed practice for about 1 1/2 years and in small animal practice for 5 1/2 before returning to her alma mater for specialty training in veterinary behavior medicine. She finished her residency in 1996 and received her board certification in 1997. In the fall of that year she relocated to the Sunshine State and established a referral veterinary behavior practice that saw cases throughout Florida (currently serving only one location in the Tampa Bay Area).

Jennifer Catpurr (Cat Trainer), Tampa

Phone: (813) 857-4876
Email: Jennifercatpurr@gmail.com • Website: www.jennifercatpurr.com
Jennifer will help you with many aspects of your cat’s life, including issues such as: Problems adjusting to people and/or pets, Aggression, Litter box problems, Spraying, Scratching unwanted areas, Fearfulness, Geriatric issues, Pica (compulsively eating nonfood substances), and Caterwauling (yowling).

Courteous Canine, Inc. / DogSmith of Tampa

3414 Melissa Country Way, Lutz, FL 33559
Phone: (813) 949-1465
Email: info@courteouscanine.com • Website: www.courteouscanine.com
Additional Locations: South Tampa, Seminole Heights
Courteous Canine dog training methods and philosophies are founded in the science of
Applied Behavior Analysis. We work with each client to develop a training plan or behavior change program that meets your needs. The behavior change programs are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and have set timelines. They offer group classes and private training for a variety of training goals ranging from house training, to aggression, destructive chewing, mouthing and dog sports. They also offer pet therapy preparation group classes.

B.Paws-itive Pet Dog Training

Angela Bubley
17912 Pepper Tree Ln., Lutz, FL 33548
Phone: (813) 963-3776
Email: bpawsitive@gmail.com • Website: www.bpawsitive.com
B. Paws-itive Pet Dog Training, offers private dog training instruction, at an affordable price, and is geared towards individuals who wish to have a dog as an intelligent, well mannered companion in their home. We train you to train your dog, and use real life situations, Angela Bubley is a AKC Approved CGC Evaluator, and will test your dog(s) for the AKC Star Puppy Test and Canine Good Citizen Test. Providing hospital visits, house calls, and training facility.

Will Thomas Dog Expert, Dog Trainer

Sarasota, FL
FREE CONSULTATION
Phone: (941) 377-0243
Email: will@willthomasdogwhisperer.com • Website: willthomasdogwhisperer.com
He will give you the intellectual tools to train your dog without the need for dozens of paid lessons and classes. You will not need shock collars, or clickers, millions of treats, choke collars or head halters to train your dog. No harsh treatment. He works with dogs at their instinctual level. This method can be very fast and it builds trust and respect without harsh treatment. He will work with you and your dog so that you can do it too. He will focus on what you want handled. He will help you to get your dog balanced and restore harmony to your home. Most situations are handled in only 1 session with FREE LIFETIME SUPPORT!

Terry M. Curtis, Clinical Behaviorist

SA Medicine University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
PO Box 100126 | 2015 SW 16th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32610-0126
Phone: (352) 392-2226
Email: curtist@ufl.edu
Specializes in Behavioral medicine – small animals, large animals, and exotics (featherpicking, aggression, and screaming in birds); Specializes in canine and feline anxiety disorders – separation anxiety and storm phobia, aggression, and elimination problems.

Dog Training Club of Tampa

4817 N. Lois Ave., Tampa, FL 33614
Phone: (813) 931-PETS
Email: DTCTampa@yahoo.com • Website: www.dtct.org
We are a not-for-profit dog training club, established in 1959 and staffed entirely by
volunteers. We offer training classes for the general public and their dogs, at a competitive
price. Classes include Puppy, Obedience, Agility, Conformation and Freestyle. You are
invited to stop by to watch our classes, talk to our instructors, and see dogs being trained
at different levels. Our philosophy is to provide dog owners with positive training methods. Come join us for a class that is sure to be fun for you and your dog! We also offer STAR Puppy CGC classes and AKC Canine Good Citizen Certification. The regular testing can be scheduled by appointment with one of our certified CGC evaluators. Our Training Facility is indoors and air-conditioned! Perfect for the ever-changing Florida weather!

Creative Behaviors Consulting – Avian behavior and training

Jess Euliano, CPBT-KA
Phone: (813) 586-4777
Email: jesseuliano@gmail.com • Website: www.creativebehaviorsconsulting.com
Jess Euliano, CPBT-KA, has been working with animals professionally for over 10 years. Although she loves all animal species, birds are her specialty! Jess has trained birds of various species for free flight shows and educational demos as well as mentored other trainers in the field. Now, as the owner of Creative Behaviors Consulting, she works one on one with clients to improve their relationship with the birds they share their lives with. Creative Behaviors Consulting also offers bird boarding, board-and-train programs, and video chat consultations. Jess has a B.S. in Psychology from Florida State University (2007) and possesses a functional understanding of operant and classical conditioning. She believes in using positive training techniques and has a great deal of experience applying these methods in real life scenarios. She is certified by the International Avian Trainers Certification Board (IATCB) and has been a professional member of the International Association of Avian Trainers and Educators (IAATE) since 2011. She is also a member of the American Federation of Aviculture (AFA) and the Pet Professional Guild (PPG).

Canine Good Citizen and Canine Community Certifications Available

We are happy to have partnered with Courteous Canine, Inc. for our Animal Behavior Services. Courteous Canine’s dog training methods and philosophies are founded in the science of Applied Behavior Analysis. We work with each client to develop a training plan or behavior change program that meets your needs. The behavior change programs are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and have set timelines. Their dog training solutions are humane and scientifically proven effective.

We offer group classes and private training for a variety of training goals ranging from house training, to aggression, destructive chewing, mouthing and dog sports. We also offer pet therapy preparation group classes.

If you have any questions pertaining to the training, please feel free to call (813) 949-1465. To sign up your dog for classes, please contact us at any of our locations. Several convenient class times and locations are available.

Our services are available from the following animal hospital locations:
(Lutz/Greater Northdale)
105 Sunset Lane
Lutz, FL 33549 (View map)
(South Tampa)
3221 W. Azeele St.
Tampa, FL 33609 (View map)
(Lutz/Tampa)
18821 N. Dale Mabry Hwy
Lutz, FL 33548 (View map)
(Town 'n' Country / Westchase)
9801 West Hillsborough Ave.
Tampa, FL 33615 (View map)
813-885-4477 (Se Habla Español)
(New Tampa / Wesley Chapel)
19440 Bruce B Downs Blvd
Tampa, FL 33647 (View map)
813-973-8566 (Se Habla Español)
(East Tampa / Near USF)
5023 East Busch Blvd
Tampa, FL 33617 (View map)
813-988-1189 (Se Habla Español)
Scroll To Top

You assessed your cat's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 3 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 3 indicates that your cat is thin.

What to do next: While thin cats are generally at lower risk for serious health issues compared to overweight cats, being underweight can lead to decreased muscle mass, malnutrition, and a weakened immune system. Unless there is an underlying reason for your cat’s thinness, the situation can often be improved with simple lifestyle adjustments, such as:

  • Offering a palatable diet recommended by your veterinarian
  • Feeding small, frequent meals
  • Stimulating the appetite by warming the food or introducing toppers
  • Minimizing stress
  • Weighing your cat monthly
  • Re-checking your cat's BCS at home
  • Staying alert to other health changes (especially continued weight loss and appetite loss)

Your cat's BCS provides valuable insights into their overall health and helps us spot potential issues early. While a BCS of 3 isn’t an immediate cause for concern, it’s a sign that small adjustments to their feeding and care routine could have a positive impact on their health.

Questions? We can help. Let’s work together to score a win for your cat's health.

You assessed your cat's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 6 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 6 indicates that your cat is borderline overweight.

What to do next: Simple daily actions can help prevent your cat from becoming overweight. Even a few extra ounces or pounds can significantly impact their health, increasing the risk of serious conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and kidney disease.

Restore your cat's future health by:

  • Feeding portioned meals (Your veterinarian can assist you with how much to feed)
  • Reducing stress by minimizing household changes and maintaining a routine
  • Decreasing boredom with interactive toys, social interaction, and cat furniture
  • Separating pets during meal time (Consider a microchip-linked feeder for multi-cat households)
  • Weighing them monthly
  • Re-checking your cat's BCS at home

Your cat's BCS is like a warning light for their future health. Taking proactive steps to address your cat’s weight can minimize future complications and help ensure they stay fit, agile, and healthy.

Curious about other ways to improve your cat’s BCS and overall well-being? Get in touch. Let’s work together to score a win for their health.

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 4-5 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. On a scale of 1 to 9, with 1 being very thin and 9 being obese, your dog's score means they are at their ideal weight for optimal health and well-being!

What to do next: First, give your dog a scratch behind the ears to celebrate your success! Your commitment to their preventive health—regular vet visits, balanced nutrition, and consistent exercise—is truly paying off. But don’t relax just yet—maintaining a healthy BCS takes ongoing effort throughout your dog's life, including:

  • Feeding portioned meals
  • Avoiding high-calorie treats, diets, and people food
  • Staying active with regular exercise
  • Re-checking your pet’s BCS monthly at home
  • Staying on top of routine care (exams, screening tests) to ensure early detection of health changes

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS gives valuable insight into their overall health. Right now, we like what we see—and feel! But remember, supporting your dog's lifelong health is a team effort. By continuing the great work you’re doing and partnering with us, we can help ensure they stay healthy for years to come.

You assessed your cat's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 7-8 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 7-8 indicates that your cat is overweight.

What to do next: Weight issues are a common cause of many feline health problems, some of which can shorten a cat's life. Fortunately, with your dedication and our support, your cat can achieve better health, mobility, and an ideal body weight.

Rather than asking your cat to participate in daily exercise, feline weight loss emphasizes targeted nutrition and stress reduction to help them shed those unwanted pounds. This entails:

  • Offering a palatable weight-management diet recommended by your veterinarian
  • Feeding portioned meals (Your veterinarian can assist you with how much to feed)
  • Using a microchip-linked feeder for multi-cat households to ensure each cat consumes their veterinarian-recommended portion
  • Minimizing stress by maintaining a stable routine
  • Decreasing boredom through positive interactions such as interactive toys, food puzzles, cat-friendly furniture, and social bonding
  • Promoting movement with motion-activated food toys and puzzles
  • Weighing them monthly
  • Re-checking their BCS at home

Overweight cats not only face long-term health risks but can also suffer from discomfort and emotional stress. Intentional, veterinary-supervised changes can help ensure your cat’s fitness, comfort, and overall well-being for years to come. Let’s work together to score a win for your cat's health.

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 3 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 3 indicates that your dog is thin.

What to do next: Although a lean body condition is healthier than being overweight, thinness can indicate muscle loss, health changes, or a lack of appropriate nutrition. Here are a few ways to help your dog reach their optimal weight and health:

  • Follow any recommendations given by your vet (these are personalized for your dog's unique needs)
  • Gradually transition your dog to a calorie-dense diet
  • Weigh them monthly
  • Re-check their BCS at home
  • Provide regular moderate exercise to build healthy muscle
  • Monitor them for other health changes (appetite loss, vomiting, unusual stools, fatigue, etc.)

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS gives valuable insight into their overall health and can help identify potential issues early. While a BCS of 3 isn't a serious concern, it suggests that your dog may benefit from adjustments to their diet and exercise routine. Please continue to monitor your dog for any other health changes—including difficulty gaining weight—as these could indicate the need for further evaluation. Let’s work together to help your dog achieve better health, so you can make the most of every moment together.

Now that’s a perfect score.

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 9 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 9 indicates that your dog is obese (weighing 20% or more above their ideal weight).

What to do next: Dogs with obesity are in significant danger of many life-altering health conditions, including arthritis, cardiovascular problems, kidney disease, and cancer. Reducing your dog's weight and improving their body condition is critical to restoring their comfort, mobility, health, and longevity.

Take action today to protect your dog's  health by:

  • Following any veterinarian’s recommendations (these are personalized to your dog's unique needs)
  • Using a measuring cup to portion meals
  • Removing uneaten food after 20 minutes
  • Limiting treats to low-calorie fruits or vegetables
  • Exercising daily for at least 30 minutes (leash walks are a great way to start)
  • Weigh them  monthly
  • Re-check their BCS at home

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS gives valuable insight into their overall health. In your dog's case, it’s a signal for immediate action.

By following the steps above and your veterinarian’s recommendations, getting your dog back to a healthy weight is possible, but it will take time and effort. That’s why we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Let’s work together to score a WIN for Sydney’s health.

You assessed your cat's body condition score (BCS) to be 1–2 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 1 to 2 indicates that your cat is very thin, at least 20% below their ideal weight. This may be caused by poor nutrition or an underlying illness.

What to do next: Since a BCS of 1 to 2 can indicate potential health concerns, your cat's veterinarian may suggest blood work or other tests.

In addition to following any plan outlined by your cat's veterinarian, the following steps may help them achieve their ideal weight and BCS:

  • Offering a palatable diet recommended by your veterinarian
  • Feeding small, frequent meals
  • Warming the food or introducing toppers
  • Feeding pets separately
  • Minimizing stress
  • Weighing them  monthly
  • Re-checking their BCS at home
  • Watching for other concerning signs, such as loss of appetite, vomiting, or changes in litter box habits, as these may require prompt veterinary care.

Just like your cat's vital signs, their BCS offers important insight into their overall health. While a BCS of 1 to 2 can be concerning, we’ll work together to help your cat safely achieve their optimal weight and vitality.

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 6 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 6 indicates that your dog is borderline overweight.

What to do next: With just a few pounds separating your dog from being overweight, a BCS of 6 is a clear call to action! Excess weight can increase their risk for serious health problems, such as arthritis, heart disease, and even cancer, and studies have shown that it can shorten their lifespan.

Here are a few ways to help Gigi reach their ideal weight:

  • Follow any recommendations given by your veterinarian (these are personalized for your dog's unique needs!)
  • Use a measuring cup to portion meals
  • Don’t leave food out all day
  • Weigh them monthly
  • Re-check their BCS at home
  • Provide regular moderate exercise to build healthy muscle

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS gives valuable insight into their overall health and and can help identify potential issues early. While a BCS of 6 isn't dangerous, it does raise their risk for many life-altering conditions and signals a need for change.

Let’s work together to help your dog achieve a better BCS and overall wellness, so you can make the most of every moment together.

Now that’s a perfect score!

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 7-8 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 7 to 8 indicates that your dog is overweight.

What to do next: Your dog's weight is putting them at an increased risk for many serious conditions, including arthritis, diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Overweight dogs are also clinically shown to have a shorter lifespan and a reduced quality of life.

Thankfully, it’s not too late to get back on track! Here are some simple steps to help your dog achieve a better BCS and a healthier life:

Here are a few ways to help them reach their ideal weight:

  • Reduce meal portions by 10% to 20%
  • Use a measuring cup for accuracy
  • Switch to a weight management diet
  • Swap treats for low-calorie fruits and veggies
  • Increase daily walks and playtime
  • Use a food-dispensing toy instead of a bowl to encourage movement
  • Weigh them monthly
  • Re-check their BCS at home

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS gives valuable insight into their overall health and quality of life. The actions you take in the days, weeks, and months ahead can help them slim down, restore their well-being, and allow you both to make the most of every moment together.

Let’s work together to score a WIN for your dog's health and happiness.

Now that’s a perfect score!

You assessed their body condition score (BCS) to be to be 9 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 9 indicates that your cat is obese (20% or more over their ideal body weight).

What to do next: Cats with obesity are in a health crisis. Excess weight strains their joints, leading to painful and decreased mobility. In addition, abundant fat tissue increases their risk for life-altering diseases like diabetes, arthritis, kidney disease, heart disease, and cancer.

Let their BCS be a turning point in their health.

With simple lifestyle changes and guided support from our team, we can restore your cat's quality of life and help them lose those unnecessary pounds.

We’ll focus on nutrition and stress reduction to create positive results. This includes:

  • Offering a palatable weight-management diet recommended by your veterinarian
  • Feeding portioned meals (Your veterinarian can assist you with how much to feed)
  • Using a microchip-linked feeder for multi-cat households to ensure each cat consumes their veterinarian-recommended portion
  • Minimizing stress in your cat’s environment
  • Decreasing boredom through positive interactions (interactive toys, food puzzles, cat-friendly furniture, and social bonding)
  • Encouraging healthy movement and exploration (motion-activated toys, food puzzles, ramps to perches, scratching posts, cat tunnels)
  • Weighing them monthly
  • Re-checking their BCS at home

Your cat’s body condition is a key factor in their health and longevity. Together, we can score a victory by helping them lose weight and reclaim their health, happiness, and mobility.

You assessed your cat's body condition score (BCS) to be 4-5 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. On a scale of 1–9, with 1 being very thin and 9 being obese, this score means they are at their ideal weight for optimal health and well-being!

What to do next: First, give your cat a head bump or a scratch to celebrate your success! Your dedication to their overall health—through regular vet visits, balanced and portion-controlled nutrition, a low-stress environment, and plenty of physical and mental activity—is truly paying off.

But don’t relax just yet—maintaining your cat’s healthy BCS will take ongoing effort throughout their lifetime. Keep up the good work by:

  • Minimizing stress
  • Creating a mentally and physically stimulating environment
  • Satisfying your cat’s social needs with one-on-one time
  • Encouraging movement with interactive toys, perches, and furniture
  • Feeding measured portions of a veterinarian-recommended, high quality, palatable diet
  • Checking your cat’s BCS monthly at home
  • Staying on top of routine veterinary care

Just like your cat's vital signs, their BCS gives us valuable insight into their overall health. Right now, we like what we see—and feel! But remember, supporting your cat's lifelong health is a team effort. By continuing the great work you’re doing and partnering with us, we can help ensure they stay healthy for years to come.

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be 1–2 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, BCS of 1 to 2 indicates that your dog is very thin, at least 20% below their ideal weight. This may be caused by poor nutrition or an underlying illness.

What to do next: Since a BCS of 1 to 2 can indicate potential health concerns, your dog's veterinarian may suggest  blood work or other tests.

If no issues are found, the following steps may help your dog achieve their ideal weight and BCS:

  • Gradually transitioning them to a calorie-dense diet
  • Feeding more frequent meals
  • Weighing them monthly
  • Re-checking their BCS at home
  • Providing regular moderate exercise to build healthy muscle
  • Monitoring them for other health changes (appetite loss, vomiting, unusual stools, fatigue, etc.)

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS offers important insight into their overall health and can serve as an early warning that something may be wrong. While a BCS of 1 to 2 can be concerning, please know that your pet's well-being is our top priority. Let’s work together to help your pet pal achieve better health, so you can make the most of every moment together.