Clinical animal behavior has evolved into an independent specialty within veterinary medicine. This field addresses complex psychological conditions in animals, such as:
While dogs and cats dominate, the book provides solid chapters on equine, avian, and small mammal behavior—crucial for mixed or exotic practices. The section on stress-induced physiological changes in livestock is especially valuable for food animal vets. Clinical animal behavior has evolved into an independent
Low-stress handling is not about being “soft”; it is about being physiologically smart. When an animal is fearful, its body releases cortisol and catecholamines. Chronic stress suppresses the immune system, elevates blood glucose, and can even alter hematology values, skewing diagnostic results. Low-stress handling is not about being “soft”; it
References available upon request. For more information on integrating behavior into veterinary practice, visit the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB) or the Fear Free certification program. References available upon request