Behavioural Referrals

When your pet’s behaviour starts to change—or becomes difficult to manage—it can affect every part of daily life. From disrupted sleep to worries about safety, these issues are often more than “just a phase”.

The good news? With the right expertise, most behavioural problems can be significantly

You may benefit from a behavioural consultation if your pet is showing:

· Aggression towards people or other animals (growling, snapping, biting)

· Anxiety or fear-related behaviours (hiding, trembling, reactivity on walks)

· Separation-related distress (destructive behaviour, vocalisation when left)

· Compulsive or repetitive behaviours (licking, pacing, tail chasing)

· Toileting issues not explained by simple training problems

· Noise sensitivities or phobias (fireworks, traffic, household sounds)

· Sudden behavioural changes, particularly in adult or older pets

A key point many people don’t realise: behavioural changes are often linked to underlying pain or medical conditions. This is why a veterinary-led approach is so important, where part of the assessment involves looking for other medical or pain related problems that are affecting the behaviour, and involves

· A comprehensive medical and behavioural assessment

· Investigation of pain, illness, or neurological factors

· A fully integrated plan combining behavioural and veterinary care

We also work closely with your regular veterinary practice, ensuring a joined-up, collaborative approach throughout.

Meet Bev – Your Behaviour Vet

Your consultation will be performed by Bev Wilson, a highly experienced veterinary surgeon with advanced postgraduate qualifications in companion animal behaviour.

Bev’s level of training goes beyond standard veterinary degrees, incorporating in-depth study of behavioural medicine at an advanced level. This allows her to manage not only straightforward cases, but also complex or long-standing behavioural problems.

Her approach is:

· Evidence-based and up to date

· Focused on practical, realistic solutions

· Centred on both pet welfare and owner confidence

In short, you’re seeing someone who understands both the medical and behavioural science behind your pet’s actions—not just the symptoms.

For Pet Owners: What Your Journey Looks Like

Step 1: Referral and Registration

Ask your usual vet to refer you to us (or if you are a Black Sheep Vets client, you can get in touch with us directly), and we’ll guide them through the next steps to arrange your appointment.

Step 2: A Thorough, Unhurried Consultation

Behaviour consultations are detailed and designed to get to the root of the problem. We will:

· Explore your concerns in depth

· Review your pet’s full history

· Understand their daily life, environment, and triggers

Step 3: A Tailored Plan

You’ll receive clear, personalised guidance, which may include:

· Behaviour modification strategies

· Practical management techniques

· Environmental changes

· Medical support where appropriate

You won’t be left to manage things alone—we support you throughout.

For Referring Veterinary Surgeons

We are proud to offer a dedicated behavioural referral service within Lincolnshire, providing your clients with access to advanced behavioural expertise without the need to travel long distances.

Referring to a local, trusted colleague means:

· Continuity of care within your region

· Easier access for clients, improving compliance and outcomes

· The reassurance that your cases are managed by an experienced veterinary behaviourist

You can expect:

· Clear, timely communication and detailed reports

· A collaborative, case-by-case approach

· Practical, realistic recommendations for owners

· Ongoing support where needed

Our aim is to complement your work, support your clients, and achieve the best possible outcomes for each patient.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Call us today to discuss your pet or referral and arrange an appointment.

Beverley Wilson 

BVMedSci BVM BVS (Hons) PgC(SAM) GPCert(SAM) MSc AFHEA CCAB MRCVS
RCVS Advanced Practitioner in Companion Animal Behaviour

Bev is an RCVS Advanced Practitioner Vet in Companion Animal Behaviour and a Certified Clinical Animal Behaviourist. Bev has a master’s degree in Clinical Animal Behaviour and she is also currently undertaking her PhD, focusing on differentiating fear and frustration in dogs.

Beverley brings a wealth of knowledge, practical insight, and clinical experience to the practice. She is passionate about supporting pets and their caregivers with empathy, evidence based guidance, and clear communication. Beverley is committed to sharing her expertise with others and mentors both members of the Fellowship of Animal Behaviour Clinicians (FAB Clinicians) and individual veterinary behaviourists. She also serves on the FAB Clinicians veterinary subcommittee.

Bev sees both general medical problems, and also runs a referral behavioural clinic here at Black Sheep Vets