Furthermore, the field suffers from —veterinarians may either over-interpret behaviors as human-like (e.g., “guilt” in dogs) or dismiss them as trivial (“it’s just dominance”).
Behavioral issues are the leading cause of "relinquishment"—the surrender of pets to shelters. When a veterinarian can address separation anxiety, compulsive behaviors, or inter-pet aggression through a combination of behavioral modification and pharmacology, they aren’t just treating a symptom; they are saving a life by preserving the bond between the owner and the animal. 3. Pharmacology and the "Brain-Body" Connection
For decades, veterinary science focused primarily on physiology, pathology, and pharmacology. Disease was a biological event; treatment targeted organs and systems. But animals, like humans, are not just biological machines—they are sentient beings with emotions, memories, and distinct personalities.