Perhaps the most fascinating frontier is the field of . Veterinarians used to dismiss "stress" as a contributing factor. Now, behaviorists prove it is often the primary cause.
When we bridge the gap between the science of the body and the science of the mind, we do more than treat disease. We alleviate suffering. We save the human-animal bond. And we finally fulfill the true oath of veterinary medicine: to ensure the health and welfare of the animal, in body and in spirit. Perhaps the most fascinating frontier is the field of
A 7-year-old, normally docile retriever begins snapping at children when they touch its back. The owner assumes it is a training issue. A behavior-aware veterinarian, however, runs a serum biochemistry panel. The results show elevated liver enzymes and a bile acids test confirms a portosystemic shunt. The "aggression" was hepatic encephalopathy (ammonia buildup affecting the brain). Treat the shunt, and the behavior resolves. When we bridge the gap between the science
Behavioral enrichment—providing stimuli that allow for natural behaviors—is essential for managing high levels of stress, aggression, or repetitive, abnormal behaviors. And we finally fulfill the true oath of