If your pet has shown a sudden change in behavior, consult both your general veterinarian and a board-certified veterinary behaviorist. The answer lies at the intersection of mind and body.
For decades, veterinary medicine focused almost exclusively on the physical health of animals—vaccinations, surgeries, and the eradication of parasites. However, as our understanding of the animal kingdom has evolved, so too has the realization that mental and physical health are inextricably linked. Today, the intersection of represents one of the most dynamic and essential fields in modern animal care. The Evolution of Clinical Ethology If your pet has shown a sudden change
: Long-term anxiety can lead to dysregulation of the HPA axis (the "stress system"), which weakens the immune system and makes pets more susceptible to infections. Stress-Induced Illness However, as our understanding of the animal kingdom
To fully integrate animal behavior into veterinary science, the following actions are recommended: the following actions are recommended: