To domesticate an animal is to tame them for human use or to accustom them to home life. There’s no question over the years pet owners have been domesticating their pets more and more.

Pets are no longer dogs and cats living outdoors requiring only an occasional pat on the head or rarely more lengthy attention if you happen to be sitting on the porch enjoying the time pass.

Now, pets rarely live outdoors. Most dogs and cats live indoors and only go outside a couple of times a day to potty and maybe for a walk or a few minutes of playtime.

As a veterinarian, I’ve observed this unique pet transformation over the past 29 years, and I am still amazed by the behavioral changes of humans and animals as a direct result of this transformation.

This transformation of pets becoming primarily indoor dwellers and subsequently, members of the family have significantly changed the practice of veterinary medicine.

The focus has shifted from caring for farm animals to being your “other” family doctor.

Pet owners treat their pets differently, and veterinarians accommodate the requests of their clients. Despite all the benefits of having your pet in the house, there are some new and less than desirable changes in pets.

Until recent years pets had only a few behavioral issues or at least only a few problems to be dealt with by their owner.

Now, because dogs are in such proximity with their owners, some dogs develop behavioral issues such as fear biting and separation anxiety.

Cats are much less domesticated concerning their personalities and behavioral issues. Cats are notorious for being territorial, especially when there is more than one cat in the household. Therefore, cats pose unique and challenging behavioral problems for their owners.

There are some solutions to the undesirable transformations of “overly-domesticated” pets.

Socialization of pets is one of the most important processes of being a good pet owner. Socialization is the process during which a pet develops relationships with other living beings. The process of becoming socialized takes place during your pet’s first year of life. The first four months of your pet’s life is the most critical time for them to learn about other living beings and their environment.

There is nothing wrong with spoiling your new puppy as long as you take the time to socialize them and also give them some time alone.

Separation anxiety is the most common behavioral problem seen in dogs.

When pets are young, it is essential to leave them alone for a few hours every day purposefully, which allows them to develop their independence, which will become vital as they grow into adults.

Another problem hindering some puppies from becoming socialized is the natural concern many pet owners have about exposing them to disease. However, benefits gained from new and early public appearances can be enormous, and without them, the risk of the puppy developing permanent fears or anxiety is a serious concern.

One valuable aid is to enroll your new puppy in puppy socialization classes. Not only do these classes offer an opportunity for play and socialization with a variety of people and dogs, but they also guide the owners into proper training techniques from the outset.

Unsocialized dogs often misbehave whenever they are taken out in public. They will often bark excessively, pull on their leash and act disobediently. An obedient dog in public is more enjoyable.

If you have any concerns or questions about your new pet, contact your veterinarian so your pet can live a long, healthy and happy life.

Dr. Jeff Castle is a veterinarian at Clark County Veterinary Clinic.