Mississippi Animal Behavior Consulting

11/14/2025

Let’s talk about elbow dysplasia.

The elbow is a pretty complex joint, it’s made up of three bones that need to fit together perfectly.
When they don’t, it can cause abnormal stress, pain, and eventually lameness.

This condition, known as elbow dysplasia, is actually an umbrella term for a few different joint issues, but all involve abnormal development that puts extra pressure on certain parts of the elbow.

It’s often genetic, but things like diet, weight, and how a puppy grows can all play a part too.

You might notice signs like:
🐶 Lameness or stiffness in the front legs
🐶 Reluctance to play or exercise
🐶 Swelling around the elbow
🐶 Cracking or popping sounds when moving
🐶 Difficulty getting up after rest

Diagnosis usually involves X-rays, CT scans or arthroscopy (a keyhole camera to look inside the joint).

Understanding conditions like elbow dysplasia helps us recognise pain sooner, and support dogs to move, rest, and heal more comfortably.

🎓 Learn more about spotting pain and movement issues in dogs with our Dynamic Dog Practitioner Course — https://www.dynamicdog.co.uk/dynamicdog

11/11/2025

The more I let my dog sniff, the more relaxed he becomes 🧘 Giving your dog opportunities to sniff in nature is super important and can make a world of difference in their behavior.

11/09/2025

🥶Cold Weather Alert 🥶
With freezing temperatures expected tonight (11/9/25) and Monday night (11/10/25), it's a good time to make sure you and your home are prepared for low temperatures.
👥 Check on vulnerable friends and neighbors.
🐕Bring pets indoors or provide extra shelter, blankets, and food.
🚰 Make sure pipes are properly insulated. Keep water dripping to avoid pipes freezing.
🪴 Cover your plants or bring them inside.

11/06/2025

🎶I'm so excited, and I just can't hide it!🎶
I LOVE getting a message from clients or even video proof of them reaching a goal they have worked so hard for! Whether it is not reacting to another dog for the first time, being able to leave something that was dropped on the floor, or allowing their pet parent to put their harness on without fighting them, having clients reach their goals brings me joy.

Working through behavior challenges with your dog can be isolating, and it can feel like everything you do is the wrong thing. My goal is to be you and your dog's number one supporter, guiding and coaching you to help you both learn and reach your goals. If you are ready to get the help and support you need for your dog, reach out to get help from a today! www.msanimalbehavior.com

11/05/2025

A lot of my clients seem to be very uncomfortable with the idea of separating their dog and child for safety reasons. But I recently had an epiphany - they all assumed that separation was the same as isolation. And it's not.

Using management strategies, such as using a pen to cordon off an area for a child to play, provide separation between the dog and child. But neither the dog or child is isolated. Everyone can still see each other. The parent can still interact with everyone. And with time and patience, everyone can be very comfortable and safe with such an arrangement.

So now, I am always reminding clients that "Separation is not the same as isolation." It's simply a way for parents to function and do the impossibly difficult job of raising kids and dogs together.

Need a helping hand? I've got you. You don't have to figure it all out alone.

11/05/2025

A friendly reminder to reward the good! 💜🐾

10/30/2025

This is a good example of why I do not recommend electronic/underground fencing systems.

When Charlee was adopted, her family wanted to keep her safe while enjoying their yard. So, they installed an electronic containment system (ECS). An ECS

10/26/2025

Dog Training shouldn't be scary! 👹👻😱
You and your dog should NOT be scared or anxious during training. Training should be educational and fun. While it can be hard work and take time, training should be all about teaching you and your dog the skills you need to reach your goals! Learn what working with a Fear Free™️Certified Trainer is like. Go to www.msanimalbehavior.com and fill out the Contact form to get started! 😁

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10/19/2025

I know Dr. Crawford and Erica personally and they are the best!! If your pet needs helps with pain management, weight loss, post-op recovery, or any other physical rehab, reach out to them!

10/10/2025

Know a dog that struggles with car travel?

It’s not always just motion sickness or anxiety, pain could be part of the problem.

From the way they jump in and out, to how they sit, stand, or lie down during the journey, travelling can place real strain on dogs with underlying musculoskeletal discomfort.

Possible signs your dog isn’t coping well:
– Hesitating or refusing to get in/out of the car
– Crying, shaking, or panting
– Standing rather than sitting
– Appearing stiff or tired after travel
– Showing reluctance before every trip

As Dynamic Dog practitioners, we look beyond behaviour to uncover the physical reasons behind what you see.

🎓 Discover how subtle signs of pain can affect everyday activities - https://www.dynamicdog.co.uk/dynamicdog

10/06/2025

I recently completed the Cat and Dog First Aid course. While I have 5 years of experience working as a veterinary technician, this course was a great refresher on CPR and first aid for pets. Knowing what to do in emergencies can be crucial, and if you've never taken a pet first aid course this is a great one that gives you all the basics. If interested, you can view more about the course at American Red Cross.org or this link: https://tinyurl.com/4zvp6b2f

10/02/2025

Check out the Pet Life column which is written every month by Yours Truly! This month I discussed crate training, why it may or not be a good fit for your dog, and how to make the crate a more positive experience.

The October edition is on the way now! check out the e-edition here: https://www.flipsnack.com/Emmerich/signature-magazine-october-2025.html