Animal Phobias

Fear of Dogs, Birds, Insects, or Other Animals

Avoiding the park, skipping social events, or even refusing to visit loved ones — these are common behaviours for people living with an animal phobia. It’s more than just disliking certain creatures. For many, the fear is intense, persistent, and overwhelming.

At Sydney Phobia Clinic, we treat a wide range of animal-related phobias, including:

  • Fear of dogs (cynophobia)

  • Fear of birds (ornithophobia)

  • Fear of insects (entomophobia)

  • Fear of snakes (ophidiophobia)

  • Fear of spiders (arachnophobia)

  • Any other animal-specific phobia impacting your daily life

People suffering from these phobias often go to great lengths to avoid places, people, or activities where they might encounter the feared animal. This can lead to disruptions in social, professional, and family life — and in some cases, create dangerous situations when panic sets in.

What Causes Animal Phobias?

Animal phobias can develop after a traumatic experience, through learned behaviour in childhood, or simply due to a lack of exposure. Even knowing a fear is irrational doesn’t make it easier to manage without structured support.

Treatment That Works — Fast

Our structured, evidence-based treatment programs use a combination of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy. This approach helps you gradually build confidence, reduce your fear response, and regain control — all in a controlled, supportive environment.

In most cases, treatment takes just 5–8 weeks, with programs tailored to your specific phobia and goals. Whether you want to walk your dog again, enjoy nature without panic, or simply stop living in avoidance, we can help.

Take the first step toward freedom.

Enquire today to find out if our 5-session program is right for you.