Perhaps the most important contribution veterinary science makes to behavior is identifying pain.
Animals are evolutionary hardwired to hide pain. In the wild, a limping animal gets eaten by predators. Therefore, our pets rarely cry out or limp until the pain is excruciating. Instead, they change their behavior.
Subtle signs of pain include:
A veterinarian uses palpation, mobility assessments, and diagnostic imaging to rule out pain before diagnosing a behavioral disorder. In many cases, "aggressive" dogs become docile angels once their arthritis is treated with anti-inflammatories.
This is why Fear Free veterinary practices are revolutionizing the industry. By adjusting handling techniques, using pheromone sprays (e.g., Adaptil for dogs, Feliway for cats), and allowing animals to hide or opt-out of procedures, vets are practicing better medicine. A calm animal has accurate vitals. Accurate vitals lead to correct diagnoses. zooskool k9 mommy verified
Behavioral problems are the number one reason for pet relinquishment and euthanasia. A dog that bites children (aggression) or a cat that urine-sprays on furniture (elimination disorder) is not a "bad pet"—it is a medical or psychiatric patient.
Veterinarians who understand behavior can save lives by diagnosing the root cause: By treating the behavior, the vet saves the bond
By treating the behavior, the vet saves the bond. By saving the bond, the vet saves the animal from euthanasia.