Despite the obvious synergy, many veterinary curricula still silo behavior into elective courses. This is a dangerous gap. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) now mandates that veterinary school graduates be competent in "normal and abnormal behavior," but implementation is inconsistent.
The consequences of ignoring animal behavior include: Despite the obvious synergy, many veterinary curricula still
The future of veterinary science is watching behavior remotely. The consequences of ignoring animal behavior include: The
Animals often experience stress during veterinary visits, which can lead to fear, aggression, and a range of behavioral issues. Stress reduction techniques, such as gentle handling, the use of pheromone diffusers, and minimizing wait times, are essential for creating a calm environment. Positive reinforcement training for both animals and their owners can also play a critical role in reducing stress and improving the veterinary visit experience. For instance, a study on cat behavior found that gentle handling and gradual exposure to veterinary clinics can significantly reduce stress and fear in felines. Positive reinforcement training for both animals and their
The next decade promises explosive growth at the intersection of animal behavior and veterinary science.
Behavioral problems are a leading cause of euthanasia, abandonment, and rehoming—especially in companion animals. Aggression toward family members or other pets, inappropriate elimination, and destructive behavior undermine the human-animal bond. When veterinarians address these issues with evidence-based behavior modification (rather than aversive methods), they preserve the bond and improve patient outcomes. Moreover, owner compliance with medication and follow-up improves when the veterinarian explains how behavioral signs reflect suffering or relief. For example, showing an owner that their dog’s tucked tail and lip-licking indicate pain (not "guilt") increases adherence to analgesia protocols.