Veterinary Behavior Services in Traverse City, MI

We are excited to announce that veterinary behavior services is now available at Bay Area Pet Hospital! Learn more below about how we can help your cat and dog with their behavioral issues, as well as how to schedule an appointment.

happy rottweiler dog standing indoors
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Meet Dr. Stacy Zuverink Resident, American College of Veterinary Behavior

Dr. Stacy Zuverink is a 2019 graduate of Michigan State University and has been practicing veterinary medicine in Holland since completing her degree. Her passion for animal behavior led her to pursue a non-traditional residency through the American College of Veterinary Behavior under the mentorship of Dr. Marie Hopfensperger.

Dr. Zuverink is dedicated to improving the emotional well-being of pets and enhancing the bond between animals and their families. She offers compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each pet’s unique needs.

What Is a Veterinary Behavior Consultation?

Veterinary behavior consultations involve a detailed assessment of your pet’s behavioral concerns, medical history, home environment, and daily routines. Following the evaluation, Dr. Zuverink develops a personalized treatment plan that may include training strategies, environmental modifications, and—in some cases—behavioral medication.

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Service Options

Initial Consultation – $300

Comprehensive, in-person assessment with a written treatment plan for both the owner and referring veterinarian.

Initial follow-up questions handled via email at no additional cost.

In-Person Follow-Up – $75

Follow-up will be performed at our hospital.

Virtual Follow-Up – $50

Follow-up will be performed via the Zoom app.

Common Behavior Concerns

If your pet is experiencing any of the following challenges, a behavior consultation may help:

Dogs

  • Separation anxiety or distress when left alone

  • Aggression toward people or other animals

  • Resource guarding (food, toys, resting spaces)

  • Reactivity on walks (lunging, barking, growling)

  • Noise or storm phobias

  • Compulsive behaviors (spinning, tail-chasing, chewing)

  • House-soiling or regression in previously trained dogs

  • Fearful behavior in new environments or with visitors

Cats

  • Litter box avoidance or inappropriate elimination

  • Aggression toward people or other pets

  • Inter-cat conflict within the household

  • Excessive vocalization

  • Compulsive grooming

  • Stress-related behaviors (hiding, refusal to eat, destructive scratching)

If you’re concerned or unsure whether your pet's behavior is normal or manageable, a consultation can provide clarity and a plan for improvement.

How to Schedule

Call our main clinic line at (231) 922-0911 to book a behavior consultation with Dr. Zuverink.

After scheduling, please complete the behavior intake questionnaire available on our website:

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Helping Pets and Their People Thrive

Bay Area Pet Hospital is proud to offer compassionate behavioral support for dogs and cats. Working together, we can help your pet feel safer, happier, and more understood.