Animals with Attitude

10/08/2025

I am still seeing dogs suffering from separation distress being punished for vocalising and destructive behaviour.
Separation distress is an anxiety based behaviour .Treatment requires medication to relieve anxiety and a behaviour modification plan to help the dog cope when he or she has to stay alone
Some dogs may settle better if they have other dogs for company but for many it is separation from their owner that is the main trigger irrespective of if another dog is available.

05/11/2022

https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/nights/audio/2018865584/understanding-your-cat-s-behaviour

With kitten season well underway, animal behaviourist Dr Elsa Flint joins the show to share some tips and tricks on how to train any new additions, as well as dealing with problematic behaviour from older cats. Send your questions for Dr Flint to [email protected] or text 2101 (texts cost 20 cents).

13/05/2022

planning a walk on Sunday.Who can attend ?
,We will start at 10 am now the weather is cooler.

24/02/2021

Operating hours update

Monday:
Closed (for Admin)

Tuesday:
9am - 4pm

Wednesday:
9am - 4pm

Thursday:
9am - 4pm

Friday:
Closed

Saturday:
Morning - Closed (for Primary Practise)
4:30pm - 5:30pm - Desensitisation Dog Walk

Sunday:
Morning - Closed (for Primary Practise)
2pm - 4:30pm - Behaviour Consultations in Clinic

Urgent enquiries, please contact Dr Elsa Flint directly on 0272649777

16/11/2020

Thinking of adding a new pet to your family this Christmas? Congratulations! You’ve taken the very first step in finding your new best friend.

Becoming a new pet owner is exciting, but can oftentimes be a scary experience for those who have never owned a pet. Not a new pet owner, but unsure of what kind of pet is right for your current family or personal lifestyle? Either way, we can help you find the perfect pet for your family.

Our Veterinary Behaviourist Dr Elsa Flint, conducts pre pet counselling consultations and is available to answer any questions you may have and make the decision of adding a new pet to your home, a little easier.

Pre pet counselling: $75 + GST
For a limited time only, you will receive a free puppy/kitten parenting document with your consultation.

05/11/2020

Is it noise aversion?

Does your dog run and hide or start panting and shaking when firecrackers go off? If so, your dog likely suffers from noise aversion, also commonly known as noise anxiety or noise phobia.

Common signs of noise aversion include barking and whining, excessively seeking attention from the owner, cowering, and hypervigilance. Even lip licking and yawning are signs that your dog is stressed.

Noise aversion is not just something that dogs experience as a reaction to fireworks, but to many other noises, including thunder, construction, celebration, sporting events, traffic noises, etc. Often dogs who have noise aversion to fireworks also react to some of these other noises.

Did you know that noise aversion indicates that your dog is anxious and fearful of these noises and is a serious medical condition? This is because what your dog is experiencing when she or he reacts to the noise is similar to what a person experiences when they have a panic attack.

Take the below quiz to see if your pet is suffering from noise aversion
https://www.zoetispetcare.com/quiz/noise-aversion

03/11/2020

Tackling Pets Frets & Fears During Firework Festivities

From your pet's perspective, loud unpredictable noises accompanied by bright lights are threatening and cause for alarm. Here are some ways to help your pet through this Guy Fawkes season:

Our Veterinary Team is here to help
* We can prescribe medications or supplements to help your pet relax

Set a soothing acoustical sanctuary
* Use calming music such as Jack Johnson or Classical music
* Utilize white noise to fill any gaps in the music

Provide your pet with a cubby or hiding place

Minimise exposure to fireworks flashes by closing the curtains or moving your pet to a room with limited outdoor views

Make the environment more comforting by using pheromone diffusers (Adaptil and Feliway)

03/11/2020

Great to be back in level 1 enjoying our regular Sunday group desensitisation dog walk 🐶 🐾

20/10/2020

Repeat Prescriptions 💊

Existing clients of Dr Flint we now have a new easier way for you to request a repeat of your pets medications.

Please click on the link below (it takes you to the online store on our website) and login to the members only section to request your repeat prescriptions.

https://www.animalswithattitude.co.nz/shop

Alternately email your script to [email protected]

Prescriptions will be dispensed and couriered on Tuesday