Animal Behavior and Veterinary Science: Understanding the Complexities of Animal Behavior
The "Aggressive" Golden Retriever: A family dog suddenly started growling at children when they touched its back. A veterinary exam revealed a severe case of hip dysplasia. The dog wasn't angry; it was in excruciating pain. Treating the arthritis eliminated the aggression.
Key Concepts in Animal Behavior
The Fear-Free Revolution: Inspired by the marriage of animal behavior and veterinary science, the Fear-Free movement has redefined the clinic. This approach uses:
The traditional model of veterinary science focused heavily on pathophysiology: the mechanical breakdown of organs, the invasion of pathogens, and the chemical imbalances of blood work. But over the last two decades, a paradigm shift has occurred. Animal behavior has moved from an ancillary curiosity to a core pillar of clinical practice.
Unlike a dog trainer, a veterinary behaviorist can:
Animal Behavior and Veterinary Science: Understanding the Complexities of Animal Behavior
The "Aggressive" Golden Retriever: A family dog suddenly started growling at children when they touched its back. A veterinary exam revealed a severe case of hip dysplasia. The dog wasn't angry; it was in excruciating pain. Treating the arthritis eliminated the aggression.
Key Concepts in Animal Behavior
The Fear-Free Revolution: Inspired by the marriage of animal behavior and veterinary science, the Fear-Free movement has redefined the clinic. This approach uses:
The traditional model of veterinary science focused heavily on pathophysiology: the mechanical breakdown of organs, the invasion of pathogens, and the chemical imbalances of blood work. But over the last two decades, a paradigm shift has occurred. Animal behavior has moved from an ancillary curiosity to a core pillar of clinical practice.
Unlike a dog trainer, a veterinary behaviorist can: