One of the primary challenges in veterinary medicine is that patients cannot verbalize their pain. Behavior is their language. A dog that suddenly becomes aggressive may not have a "behavior problem"; it may be suffering from undiagnosed osteoarthritis or dental pain.
, a specialty that bridges ethology (the study of animal behavior) with clinical science to improve the welfare of pets, livestock, and wildlife alike. Behavior as a Diagnostic Tool One of the primary challenges in veterinary medicine
Consider a dog diagnosed with "storm phobia." A trainer might use desensitization CDs. A veterinary behaviorist will run a thyroid panel (hypothyroidism can cause anxiety), prescribe situational anxiolytics (like Sileo or trazodone), and create a medical management plan that includes environmental modification. , a specialty that bridges ethology (the study
: Examines how animals interact with their environment and others, focusing on genetics, learning (conditioning), and social skills The Veterinary Behaviorist Board-certified Veterinary Behaviorist : Examines how animals interact with their environment