The marriage of animal behavior and veterinary science isn't limited to pets. It is saving species.
As humans, we have always been fascinated by the behavior of animals. From the complex social structures of wolves to the migratory patterns of birds, animal behavior is a rich and diverse field of study. Veterinary science, on the other hand, is the application of medical science to the health and well-being of animals. When combined, animal behavior and veterinary science provide a comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationships between animal behavior, health, and disease.
| If you see... | Do NOT assume... | Instead, do... | |---------------|------------------|----------------| | Cat urinating outside box | “Spite” or “litter box aversion” | Urinalysis, bloodwork, abdominal imaging (rule out FLUTD, CKD, hyperthyroidism) | | Dog growling at kids | “Dominance” or “bad dog” | Pain exam, history of punishment, assess body language (fear, not status) | | Horse weaving | “Just a bad habit” | Check diet (low forage), stall size, social isolation, gastric ulcers | | Bird feather plucking | “Behavioral only” | Skin biopsy, DNA for PBFD, radiographs (heavy metal, neoplasia) |
The marriage of animal behavior and veterinary science isn't limited to pets. It is saving species.
As humans, we have always been fascinated by the behavior of animals. From the complex social structures of wolves to the migratory patterns of birds, animal behavior is a rich and diverse field of study. Veterinary science, on the other hand, is the application of medical science to the health and well-being of animals. When combined, animal behavior and veterinary science provide a comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationships between animal behavior, health, and disease.
| If you see... | Do NOT assume... | Instead, do... | |---------------|------------------|----------------| | Cat urinating outside box | “Spite” or “litter box aversion” | Urinalysis, bloodwork, abdominal imaging (rule out FLUTD, CKD, hyperthyroidism) | | Dog growling at kids | “Dominance” or “bad dog” | Pain exam, history of punishment, assess body language (fear, not status) | | Horse weaving | “Just a bad habit” | Check diet (low forage), stall size, social isolation, gastric ulcers | | Bird feather plucking | “Behavioral only” | Skin biopsy, DNA for PBFD, radiographs (heavy metal, neoplasia) |