Sometimes pet behavior problems seem overwhelming, but many can be managed with the application of a little knowledge and a little effort. Keeping pets in their homes in a manner that's comfortable for both pet and owner is one of our many goals at the Animal Humane Society.
    This online library contains tried-and-true methods for managing many common pet behavior problems. There are also tools for evaluating situations that may be resolved only by applying additional resources. Please browse the list of titles on the left and study the information that's relevant to your particular situation. Try the solutions that are offered. If your problem persists, please call our Behavior Helpline and leave a message for our Helpline Volunteers.
   The Animal Humane Society's Behavior Helpline began in 1996 to help pet owners address their animals' behavior problems. Dog or cat owners may call (763) 489-2202 twenty four hours a day and leave a message describing their pet's problem. Volunteers trained by a veterinary behaviorist will return the calls, typically within a week. They may give the owners advice, send them literature, and/or refer the caller to a veterinary behaviorist. By keeping pets and owners together, the Behavior Helpline helps the Animal Humane Society carry out its mission to reinforce the human-animal bond, and helps reduce the number of surrendered animals. Volunteers will mail the material to those who don't have access to a computer. If, after reviewing the material available here, you have additional questions you may want to call the above number and leave a message. 
   Some issues are best handled by a professional Veterinary Behaviorist, (for example: canine or feline aggression). Because phone counseling is inadequate for addressing a serious problem like animal aggression, and because there is potential for serious injury from animal bites and scratches, Behavior Helpline volunteers must refer such cases to the Small Animal Behavior Clinic at the University of Minnesota. Appointments there may be scheduled by calling Dana Ashlin-Emerson at (612) 624-0797.