Colleen Wilson

BSc, DVM, DACVB
Colleen Wilson
Behaviour
Behaviour
Colleen Wilson

Dr. Colleen Wilson, BSc, DVM, Dipl. ACVB is the only Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviourist in Eastern Ontario and one of just ten across Canada. With over 25 years of experience in veterinary practice, she combines extensive clinical experience with advanced specialty training in animal behaviour.

Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Psychology from the University of New Brunswick, followed by a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the Atlantic Veterinary College. After 15 years in general practice, Dr. Wilson completed a residency with the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists and achieved Diplomate status.

Dr. Wilson has authored and contributed to peer-reviewed research, including:

  • Owner observations regarding cat scratching behaviour: an internet-based survey
  • Pain and Problem Behaviour in Cats and Dogs (2020)
  • Is it more stressful for dogs to be examined on a table versus the floor? A randomized crossover study (2025)

She has spoken at conferences and events across Canada, including the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association, Veterinary Education Today, Royal Canin Canada, the Canadian Central Veterinary Association, and the CanWest Conference. Dr. Wilson also developed an expert report for the Canadian Transport Agency addressing emotional support animals (ESAs) and air travel.

Dr. Wilson is a member of the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior, serves on the Fear Free Advisory Board, is part of the official Fear Free Speakers Bureau, and is Elite Fear Free certified. She is especially passionate about communicating the most current science on animal behaviour to both veterinary professionals and pet owners.

Outside of her professional work, Dr. Wilson enjoys trail riding with her horse, Loulou, and spending time with her two cats, Marmelade and Shishi, as well as her black Labrador, Bumper. Most of all, she loves time with her husband and two sons whenever they are home.

See our departments

Behaviour

There are only about 100 Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviourists, Diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, ACVB, worldwide - and Dr. Colleen Wilson is proud to be one of them. 

Veterinary behaviourists are veterinarians with advanced specialty training in behavioural medicine, uniquely qualified to diagnose whether a behaviour is normal or abnormal, if it is related to an underlying medical condition, and assess the complex relationships between an animal’s health, environment, past experiences, and behaviour. They also prescribe and monitor behaviour-modifying medications when appropriate. 

As a Specialist in Animal Behaviour, Dr. Wilson also develops individualized treatment plans that combine environmental management, behaviour modification, and medical support.

Dr. Wilson works with families to address concerns in dogs and cats, such as:

  • Aggression toward people or other animals
  • Anxiety and separation anxiety
  • Noise and storm phobias
  • Compulsive disorders
  • Inappropriate elimination and urine marking
  • Excessive barking, overgrooming, or repetitive behaviours

How the Behaviour Service Works

Dr. Wilson’s consultation packages are designed as a three-part process to provide families with ongoing support and lasting results:

  1. Initial consultation — a comprehensive assessment of your pet’s behavioural and medical history, evaluation of contributing factors, and development of a tailored treatment plan.
  2. Phone check-in (2–3 weeks later) — a follow-up call to monitor progress, answer questions, and make adjustments if needed.
  3. Eight-week recheck — a dedicated re-examination to review progress, address challenges, and refine the long-term management plan.

This structured approach ensures pets and their families receive not only a diagnosis and treatment plan, but also guidance and support as they work through the process of change. 

Only a veterinary behaviourist can combine medical expertise with behavioural care.

Alta Vista Animal Hospital

2616 Bank Street

Gloucester, ON K1T 1M9

Main: 613-731-6851

Fax: 613-731-2315

Hospital Hours:

    Mon-Fri: Open 24 hours

    Sat-Sun: Open 24 hours

Referral Services:

MON - FRI
6:00 am - 6:00 pm

SAT - SUN
Closed

Closed on Stat Holidays

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