The integration of behavior into veterinary science serves three primary purposes: 1. Reducing Stress and Fear-Free Care

: Recent research highlights how the microbiome influences animal psychology; for instance, dogs with anxiety-related behaviors often have fewer anti-inflammatory gut bacteria than healthy dogs.

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