Animal behavior and veterinary science are two sides of the same coin. As we continue to peel back the layers of animal consciousness, the veterinary profession will continue to move toward a more holistic, "whole-animal" approach. By treating the mind as carefully as we treat the body, we ensure a higher quality of life for the creatures that share our world.
: Understanding species-specific body language—such as a cat’s ear position or a dog’s tail quiver—allows vets to assess pain levels and emotional states that the animal cannot verbally communicate.
Abstract. Knowledge of animal behavior is an extremely important component of modern veterinary practice. Appreciation of species- National Institutes of Health (.gov) Overview of Behavioral Medicine in Animals