I have now resigned from offering veterinary behaviour services and will be shutting down this website and my email address at the end of April 2025.

The current replacement for my services is the lovely Dr Caroline Thursfield (visiting Hobart regularly from Melbourne). Please find her contact details and further information here: Dr Caroline Pet Behaviour Vet

I wish to thank you all for seeking my support, for being such lovely clients and most importantly, for being such caring, supportive and sympathetic champions for your loved pets. You and your pets have taught me a great deal, and reinforced the importance to me, about the human-animal bond and how this can intertwine many lives, both human and non-human, and have ripple effects throughout society.

This is an area in which I will never cease to maintain involvement. I will also continue to learn about and be involved with issues such as quality of life, ethics, values and beliefs, animal law and welfare. Although you may not realise it, you are all playing an important part in the recognition of both animal sentience and the vast capabilities of our non-human allies, an area that is burgeoning in research, especially over the last 30 years, which has been my time as a vet.

My final words as I sign off from this website, which holds so many memories  (see a few of the wonderful revolutionaries in behavioural medicine and animal learning/welfare I have met through my career - view the gallery):

‘If we don’t continue caring, there’ll be nothing left to care about’.

My thankfulness, Bye!  XXX 

Consultations

What happens in a Consultation?

Diagnosing a behaviour problem is no different to diagnosing a medical problem. It starts with a thorough history and close observation.

This is best done in your home, or where the behavioural problem is shown. All members of the household, or everyone who interacts with the animal should be involved, so they can understand the methods being explained and taught.

A plan will then be made to modify the behaviour that is of concern and replace it with more desirable behaviour. Humane and scientifically proven techniques of applied learning theory are always used, with a strong emphasis placed on the use of positive reinforcement (reward-based training).

Consultation Follow Up

A detailed report will be provided after theconsultation.

On-going support is given by phone or email with follow up consultations as required.

“With the possible exception of the equator, everything begins somewhere” C.S. Lewis

How to prepare for a Consultation 

  • Phone or email Dr Katrina Ward.
  • Make sure as many people who interact with the animal can be present as possible.
  • Complete the questionnaire if your pet is a dog, cat or bird.
  • If your pet has been seen recently by a veterinarian, a copy of their medical history is also required.
  • Video footage of your pet showing the behavioural problem can be very helpful, but do not place anyone or another animal in danger if the problem involves aggressive behaviour. Click here if you would like to hire a video camera.
  • On the day of the appointment, have your pet’s favourite treats or toys available, and their usual equipment (collars, muzzles, harnesses etc) on hand.
  • Allow for approximately 2 hours for the initial consultation.‍
Animal Behaviour Tasmania

see what our customers say

"Lily came from NSW RSPCA a very nervous, noisy little dog. We tried to calm her down, reassure her, give treats, but nothing worked. She barked at everyone and everything. Katrina was our dog whisperer and she had all the answers and a special something. She helped us transform our Lily. We now have a very friendly, sweet little bundle of love that we can take anywhere. She’s happy, and so are we. Thank you Katrina."

Wendy, Kaoota

"Dear Katrina, Thank you so much for all your advice and support with my cat. She really was the “Cat from Hell” and now is quite tolerable. My one regret is that I didn’t contact you sooner. It isn’t overstating to say you’ve saved my sanity and her life."

Manina, East Launceston

" I found the class really great. I learnt a lot about why a puppy does something and how to deal with unwanted behaviour. Also, the reward system works great and I have found it to be an excellent way to train my puppy."

Lynette

“My miniature poodle puppy was very frightened and anxious. I spoke with my vet who referred us to Dr. Katrina Ward. I was able to speak to Katrina and voice my concerns and she made a time to visit us in our home environment. From this first contact I felt so confident with Katrina and her ability to see Maisie's problems. Katrina gave me the skills, knowledge and a plan to help manage Maisie's insecurities as well as a folder with many hints and tips. I was able to keep in touch with Katrina by phone and email over the next few months until I felt Maisie had become more settled. I now have a very happy, relaxed and friendly little dog. My sincere thanks go to Katrina for her professionalism, care, compassion and understanding.”

Ruth Austin, New Town

Consultations

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