Behavioural Consultation

We all want our pets to be well-mannered, socialised and obedient. However, behavioural problems can arise from a great number of reasons such as genetic influences, poor socialisation and traumatic experiences. If you are concerned about an aspect of your pet’s behaviour? Please consult our Senior Behavioural Support Technician, Lily Leung.

Lily completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Animal Behaviour Course from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies at The University of Edinburgh, part of the College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine.

She is fully trained to work with both dogs and cats as a graduate of The Academy for Dog Trainers and holding a Diploma holder in Feline Behaviour and Psychology from the Centre of Excellence. In particular, she earned a Distinction on its iCatCare Advanced Feline Behaviour for Cat Professionals program.

Lily enjoys addressing behavioural issues and is a Fear Free Certified® Professional with specialties focusing on stress and anxiety management. This is further enhanced by her training to deal with animal aggression, having completed both the Animal Professionals Course as well as the Advanced Canine Aggression with Animal Professionals Course under Dr. Amber Batson.

Joining the SPCA in 2010, Lily Leung has been our animal behaviour consultant since 2013 and led the development of the service since June 2022.

We all want well-mannered, socialised and obedient pets. However, behavioural problems can arise for a great number of reasons such as genetic influences, poor socialisation and traumatic experiences learned later in life.

When problems do arise they can create a great deal of stress for both the family and the animal. Behavioural issues can lead to a breakdown in the bond between the pet and its family who may ultimately surrender their pet if they do not receive help.

Many behavioural problems are motivated by fear and anxiety and so cannot be resolved by training alone (although training is always a very important part of the solution). Consulting with a behaviourist can help you understand what motivates or drives the unwanted behaviour.

Behaviour modification uses a holistic approach by examining not just the problem but assessing the factors that contribute to it, including the animal’s environment and the link between human behaviour and how this can influence unwanted animal behaviours. An appropriate treatment and follow-up support are offered as part of the consultation.