Originally rooted in domestic animal behavior, the field became a formal veterinary specialty in the late 20th century. Today, it integrates multiple disciplines: PubMed Central (PMC) (.gov) Physiology and Neuroscience

Veterinary science has traditionally focused on pathophysiology, pharmacology, and surgical intervention. However, a paradigm shift recognizes that an animal's behavior is both a diagnostic window into its internal state and a critical determinant of treatment success. Fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) are not merely welfare concerns; they directly alter physiological parameters (e.g., heart rate, blood glucose, cortisol) and can mask or mimic organic disease. This paper argues that the integration of applied animal behavior—from ethology to learning theory—is essential for evidence-based veterinary practice.

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