Veterinary Behavior Consultants is a private specialty practice that has been helping owners and others with animal behavior problems in the Southern California area since before 1988. Dr. Patrick Melese is a board-certified veterinary behaviorist and provides office appointments and housecalls to aid owners solve their pet's behavior problems.
Follow us
Services
Consultation for pet Behavioral problems
Report
Appointments for our specialist to work up with detailed intake history, relevant medical records and observations to arrive at behavioral diagnosis then develop treatment plan to help pet parents and others improve their pet's behavior. Environmental changes, behavior modification techniques and sometimes behavioral medications are all assessed for use in a customized treatment plan for your pet. For more details please see our website: www. sdvetbehavior. com We also offer expert witness services for legal cases, evaluations for rescue groups, presentations, etc.
Veterinary Behavior Consultants is a private specialty veterinary practice that has been helping owners and others with animal behavior problems in the Southern California area since 1987. Dr. Patrick Melese is a board-certified Veterinary Behaviorist and offers office appointments and house calls to help owners solve their pet's behavior problems.
Dr. Melese is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists and director of Veterinary Behavior Consultants, a Southern California-based veterinary practice dedicated to preventing and solving behavior problems in animals since 1988. In 2002 Dr. Melese reactivated his San Diego-based private behavioral specialty practice after several years as clinical faculty with the University of California School of Veterinary Medicine.
The notes below represent only a tiny fraction of the thousands of positive progress reports and thank you notes that we have received over the years. Please excuse us if yours is not posted here but trust that we appreciate and value your thanks and share in your happiness with how well your pet is now doing!.
Photos
Reviews (17)
Dave Happ
Jun 12, 2022
Dr. Melese has provided critical guidance for our relationship with our dog. Our little kid had behavioral issues in the past. Dr. Melese helped us navigate the problems with techniques (as much training for us as for her) and medications. Our girl is older now and the behavioral problems are in the past. We are grateful to him. We are transitioning to an "as needed" relationship with Dr. M. His guidance has made all the difference. If you should need help with canine behavioral issues, we highly recommend that you contact Veterinary Behavior Consultants.
Danielle McCoy
Apr 24, 2022
Dr Patrick Melese is such an incredible doctor and I truly thank God for putting him in my and my dog Bonham's lives. He is incredibly thorough, kind, caring, great sense of humor, and most importantly, gives the right tools to use. My Bonham has gone to training, board and train, aggressive dog training, and nothing has had the impact like Dr Melese. I highly recommend him for your beloved fur baby.
Kristin Carter Antunez
Apr 21, 2022
We've had a number of dogs and while the first year can be an adjustment, things always smoothed out and our dogs relaxed. Last year our golden doodle at 1 year was overwhelming us with his high energy and severe anxiety even after intensive dog training. Knowing he could become aggressive because we didn't understand him and he was so frustrated we were referred to Dr. Melese, he gave us a lot of helpful tips, packets of information to help understand what our dog was experiencing and how we could build a bridge so our dog could understand what we wanted from him.
There are books he recommends and they really are very helpful. Our dog is much calmer, while he might always be a reactive dog, we have better tools now. The treatment did make our life much better. He's 2 years old now and he's able to be around our other dogs and the most important part is that HE is happier now too.
There are books he recommends and they really are very helpful. Our dog is much calmer, while he might always be a reactive dog, we have better tools now. The treatment did make our life much better. He's 2 years old now and he's able to be around our other dogs and the most important part is that HE is happier now too.
Jeremy Manger
Dec 24, 2021
Dr. Melese at Veterinary Behavior Consultants has saved our dog's life and our sanity, literally. We were at wits end with our sweet puppy that we saved from the pound. We didn't know what we were doing when we chose him, what the life on the streets and neglect did to him, and how hard it would be for our family. He is super sweet with the 4 of us in our house and nervous but fine outside, however, he developed a fierce protective aggression of our home.
Any guests were subject to incessant barking and even some strong bumps in the rear (not quite nips, but close). The fear that he would bite someone was real, and we were terrified to have guests. It really changed our lifestyle, as though Covid wasn't enough. We tried a lot of training and other methods, and were ready to give him away. And then Animal Keeper recommended Dr. Melese at Veterinary Behavior Consultants.
And our world has changed within 2 months. First, Dr. Melese is kind, understanding and sincere. Second, he is extremely knowledgeable. Third, the ability to combine medication with training really makes a difference. We feel empowered, and have rekindled our love for this dog. Our kids would have never forgiven us if we had to give him away, and now we do not. Thank you!
Any guests were subject to incessant barking and even some strong bumps in the rear (not quite nips, but close). The fear that he would bite someone was real, and we were terrified to have guests. It really changed our lifestyle, as though Covid wasn't enough. We tried a lot of training and other methods, and were ready to give him away. And then Animal Keeper recommended Dr. Melese at Veterinary Behavior Consultants.
And our world has changed within 2 months. First, Dr. Melese is kind, understanding and sincere. Second, he is extremely knowledgeable. Third, the ability to combine medication with training really makes a difference. We feel empowered, and have rekindled our love for this dog. Our kids would have never forgiven us if we had to give him away, and now we do not. Thank you!
Heather Wilkens
Dec 16, 2021
I'd nearly given up hope on our scared, and therefore aggressive little dachshund, but with Dr. Melese's help we've made some incredible progress in a relatively short amount of time. Dr. Melese listened to our unique issues, and gave us a detailed plan that the whole family can follow. We are looking forward to many years of joy with our beloved pet. I highly recommend Veterinary Behavior Consultants!
Tricia McCormick
May 25, 2021
Dr. Patrick Melese is truly a lifesaver! After having our vet and our trainer recommend euthanizing our 11 month old puppy I was at a loss. How could I possibly tell my children this?! Dr. Melese was our last hope and with all honesty I can say the only reason our dog is still alive is with his help, guidance and expertise. We have a large dog that became uncontrollable and unpredictable.
I cried through our first appnt thinking there was no hope. Ive raised and rescued my entire life.what was I doing wrong? The one thing I never experienced (at least not knowingly) was having a 'special needs' dog. With having a proper diagnosis we began the long journey of behavior training (the dog and us), finding the right medication and treatment plan that would put our dog on a path that would suit his needs.
If you are a dedicated pet parent, willing to do the work, there is NO ONE better suited to help. I left his office today, 2 years later, with an amazing dog that I am so proud of. Anyone who has watched our struggle has been able to witness the progress he has made. My family and I will be forever grateful for the hope, support, and restored faith we have in managing our wonderful, special dog.
I cried through our first appnt thinking there was no hope. Ive raised and rescued my entire life.what was I doing wrong? The one thing I never experienced (at least not knowingly) was having a 'special needs' dog. With having a proper diagnosis we began the long journey of behavior training (the dog and us), finding the right medication and treatment plan that would put our dog on a path that would suit his needs.
If you are a dedicated pet parent, willing to do the work, there is NO ONE better suited to help. I left his office today, 2 years later, with an amazing dog that I am so proud of. Anyone who has watched our struggle has been able to witness the progress he has made. My family and I will be forever grateful for the hope, support, and restored faith we have in managing our wonderful, special dog.
Siloh Radovsky
Dec 11, 2020
Kevin Bucy
Jun 08, 2020
We did not have a good experience. I booked a 2 hour assessment that went for 3 hours. Guessing I was supposed to keep track of time. When billed for the extra hour, I questioned Dr Melesse. While he apologized he said he had a full clientele and I was welcome to go to the other behavioral vet in Santa Monica. During the session he spent lots of time asking questions already contained in the history and vet records I sent a month prior. Just a heads up.
Gracie Hartsfield
May 31, 2020
They wanted $300 just to book the appointment online (that's not the actually appointment cost, that's just to make the appointment). I can't afford that! They were my last hope and now I have euthanize my dog tomorrow because he's too aggressive. Don't give your money to these jerks. They're just taking advantage of people who love their dogs.
Jimmy James
May 16, 2020
Tricia McCormick
Oct 28, 2019
Dr. Patrick Melese is truly a lifesaver! After having our vet and our trainer recommend euthanizing our 11 month old puppy I was at a loss. How could I possibly tell my children this?! Dr. Melese was our last hope and with all honesty I can say the only reason our dog is still alive is with his help, guidance and expertise. We have a large dog that became uncontrollable and unpredictable.
I cried through our first appnt thinking there was no hope. Ive raised and rescued my entire life...what was I doing wrong? The one thing I never experienced (at least not knowingly) was having a ‘special needs’ dog. With having a proper diagnosis we began the long journey of behavior training (the dog and us), finding the right medication and treatment plan that would put our dog on a path that would suit his needs.
If you are a dedicated pet parent, willing to do the work, there is NO ONE better suited to help. I left his office today, 2 years later, with an amazing dog that I am so proud of. Anyone who has watched our struggle has been able to witness the progress he has made. My family and I will be forever grateful for the hope, support, and restored faith we have in managing our wonderful, special dog.
I cried through our first appnt thinking there was no hope. Ive raised and rescued my entire life...what was I doing wrong? The one thing I never experienced (at least not knowingly) was having a ‘special needs’ dog. With having a proper diagnosis we began the long journey of behavior training (the dog and us), finding the right medication and treatment plan that would put our dog on a path that would suit his needs.
If you are a dedicated pet parent, willing to do the work, there is NO ONE better suited to help. I left his office today, 2 years later, with an amazing dog that I am so proud of. Anyone who has watched our struggle has been able to witness the progress he has made. My family and I will be forever grateful for the hope, support, and restored faith we have in managing our wonderful, special dog.
Patricia Floyd
Feb 24, 2019
My little Rescue dog is like Dennis the Menace. Cute, but very badly behaved. With Dr. Patrick Melese, he has calmed down considerably with the help of some meds and tools I have learned to use. I still need to learn some things to help him, but that's on me. Dr. Pat was recommended by two different vets and I wish I had started the first time he was recommended. But, never too late and we have made incredible strides. Thank you!
Patricia Floyd
Dec 01, 2018
My little Rescue dog is like Dennis the Menace. Cute, but very badly behaved. With Dr. Patrick Melese, he has calmed down considerably with the help of some meds and tools I have learned to use. I still need to learn some things to help him, but that's on me. Dr. Pat was recommended by two different vets and I wish I had started the first time he was recommended. But, never too late and we have made incredible strides. Thank you!
Elly Dotseth
Nov 01, 2018
Working in combination with Dr. Melese and another veterinarian who is a neurological specialist, we were able to find medications to calm our two dogs so that they can live together in harmony. We were pretty much at our wit's end before the meds. One dog was a rescue from the Humane Society who exhibited very aggressive and unusual behaviors after we brought home a 5 month old "puppy" to be her companion.
The puppy was attacked fiercely twice, and we were afraid of what might happen if we could not figure out what was wrong. It was the neurologist who suggested trying a drug that treats seizures, nerve pain and is somewhat sedating. That worked like a charm! Both dogs are on anti-anxiety meds as well. With some adaptations to our home, and some behavior modifications, we have been able to find a relatively "normal" life with these girls. Re-homing has not been necessary!
The puppy was attacked fiercely twice, and we were afraid of what might happen if we could not figure out what was wrong. It was the neurologist who suggested trying a drug that treats seizures, nerve pain and is somewhat sedating. That worked like a charm! Both dogs are on anti-anxiety meds as well. With some adaptations to our home, and some behavior modifications, we have been able to find a relatively "normal" life with these girls. Re-homing has not been necessary!
Brock Goodman
Nov 01, 2018
Dr. Melese gave us our cats back. If you ask any vet in town they'll tell you he's the only actual specialist in animal behavior in town. It might work out, but I can't recommend going to anyone who simply claims to be a behaviorist. Dr. Melese is a professional, studies the literature, and applies it as a scientist. Oh, and our cats stopped fighting and are best friends again. Took awhile, but worth it.
Brock Goodman
Aug 17, 2018
Dr. Melese gave us our cats back. If you ask any vet in town they'll tell you he's the only actual specialist in animal behavior in town. It might work out, but I can't recommend going to anyone who simply claims to be a behaviorist. Dr. Melese is a professional, studies the literature, and applies it as a scientist. Oh, and our cats stopped fighting and are best friends again. Took awhile, but worth it.
Natasha Papousek
May 30, 2018