Pharmaceuticals in a Multimodal Behavior Plan: Strategic Use in the Treatment of Fear, Stress, & Anxiety

Course overview

The use of pharmaceuticals in veterinary behavioral medicine extends far beyond suppression of clinical signs, serving as a critical tool for improving patient welfare, facilitating learning, and interrupting maladaptive emotional cycles. In this webinar, Dr. Christopher Pachel will explore how medications fit within a multimodal treatment framework for fear-, stress-, and anxiety-related disorders, with an emphasis on thoughtful, case-specific decision-making. Dr. Pachel will also review how untreated behavioral conditions can impact patient safety and quality of life and increase risk for relinquishment, reinforcing the importance of timely and appropriate intervention. Attendees will also explore the major classes of psychotropic medications, including their mechanisms of action, clinical applications, and roles as maintenance or situational supports. Practical guidance will be provided on aligning medication strategies with behavior modification plans and caregiver capacity. Throughout, the focus will remain on improving patient outcomes through integrated, ethical, and evidence-informed care.