The integration of these fields improves . A dog that is physically healthy but lives in a constant state of separation anxiety is not "well." Furthermore, understanding behavior protects the human-animal bond . When owners understand that a behavior is a communication of distress rather than "spite," they are more likely to pursue treatment and maintain a healthy relationship with their pet.

Animal behavior and veterinary science are two sides of the same coin. As we continue to peel back the layers of animal consciousness, the veterinary profession will continue to move toward a more holistic, "whole-animal" approach. By treating the mind as carefully as we treat the body, we ensure a higher quality of life for the creatures that share our world.