What is a DACVB and Why Does My Pet Need One?
A veterinary behaviorist is a veterinarian who is trained to address the relationships between an animal’s health, environment, experiences, and its behavior. Like all veterinarians, a veterinary behaviorist completes a 4-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree. Following vet school, veterinary behaviorists follow a path similar to the path taken by human medical specialists. Extensive additional training includes a minimum of 1-year general practice experience and a 3-year residency program dedicated solely to studying and treating behaviour problems. Following residency, veterinary behaviorists must pass a rigorous multi-day certification exam. Only veterinarians who have completed an accredited residency program and who have passed the specialty exam may use the title Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (DACVB).
Meet Dr. Heinrich!
Dr. Heinrich grew up in Ontario working on horse farms as a stable hand and trainer as well as milking cows. She obtained a BSc in Animal Biology and an MSc in Animal Behavior and Welfare from The University of Guelph before attending the Ontario Veterinary College and graduating in 2012. She moved to Alberta in 2016 with a brief hiatus away working with marine mammals and wildlife. She is currently the only Veterinary Behavior Specialist in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba as a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists.
Dr. Heinrich lives in Cochrane with her husband, two children, two Standard Poodles, and a lovely grey cat. She also has a Paint mare she has started and trained from a weanling. She has a special passion for starting young horses using positive reinforcement. Dr. Heinrich also has family in Souris and enjoying spending time in Manitoba throughout the year.
Conditions We Treat:
Aggression
- Growling, biting, lunging, or territorial behavior
- It can be directed toward people or other animals
- Often linked to fear, frustration, or medical conditions
- Managed with structured behavior modification and training
- Veterinary behaviorists help identify triggers and solutions
Anxiety
- Signs include pacing, panting, or destructive behavior
- This can occur due to separation, loud noises, or changes in routine
- It may require behavioral therapy, environmental changes, or medication
- Early intervention helps prevent worsening symptoms
- Treatment plans are customized for each pet
Fears and Phobias
- Common triggers include thunderstorms, fireworks, and unfamiliar environments
- Symptoms range from hiding and shaking to extreme panic reactions
- Gradual exposure and positive reinforcement help reduce fear
- Specialized training techniques can improve coping mechanisms
- A veterinary behaviorist provides guidance tailored to your pet’s needs
Elimination Disorders
- Includes urination or defecation in inappropriate places
- Can be caused by stress, medical issues, or environmental changes
- Requires thorough assessment, including medical history and urinalysis
- Treatment may involve litter box adjustments, training, and medication
- Identifying the root cause is key to long-term success
Compulsive disorders
- Repetitive behaviors such as tail chasing, excessive licking, or pacing
- Can develop due to stress, frustration, or genetic factors
- Environmental enrichment and structured routines can help
- Some cases require medical intervention alongside behavior therapy
- Veterinary behaviorists design personalized management strategies
Appointment Details:
You will receive an email detailing what to expect at your appointment and a link to a history form for you to provide details about your pet and their behavior.
We apologize for the length of the form, we really do, but it is important information for the Veterinary Behaviorist to have to help you and your pet. Please fill out this form and submit it at least 48 hours prior to their appointment.
Blood work and physical exams within the previous 6 months is strongly recommended. For cats with elimination concerns a recent urinalysis is required.
The initial appointment is approximately 90 minutes long. Dr. Heinrich will review your pet’s history and provide a diagnosis and treatment plan consisting of management, behavior modification, any pharmaceuticals or nutraceuticals that may benefit your pet, as well as recommendations for follow up care. No aversive training methods such as shock, prong or choke collars are used.
**Pre-payment is required to reserve your appointment time, due to limited appointment availability.
Payment Options
We’ve outlined the fees for our frequently requested services below to ensure clarity and openness. Payment is due at the time of service. We accept e-transfers (to hello@truenorthveteye.com), debit cards, and major credit cards. Please note that we do not accept cash or cheques.
Fees are as follows:
Initial Consultation- $500.00 + GST
Recheck Consultation- $247.62 +GST