Actions modified by experience, such as habituation, conditioning, imprinting, and imitation [24, 33]. The Role of Ethology in Veterinary Science
The gut-brain axis is a hot topic in human medicine, and veterinary science is following suit. Diets supplemented with alpha-casozepine (a milk protein hydrolyzate found in calming diets) or L-tryptophan have been clinically shown to reduce fear and aggression in stressed animals. Nutritional interventions are now a first-line defense in many behavior-modifying veterinary protocols. Nutritional interventions are now a first-line defense in
By using a combination of behavior modification protocols and, when necessary, psychotropic medications, veterinary science can save animals that might otherwise be surrendered or euthanized due to "behavioral problems." Low-Stress Handling and the "Fear-Free" Movement more humane handling of patients
Knowledge of species-typical behavior allows for safer, more humane handling of patients, reducing stress for both the animal and the clinician [10, 30]. Actions modified by experience