The bridge between these two worlds is personified by the —a veterinarian who has completed additional rigorous residency training in behavioral medicine. These specialists are board-certified (e.g., Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, DACVB) and represent the gold standard of care.

: Veterinary science now bridges the gap between animal, human, and environmental health, using companion animals as models for human diseases like diabetes and neurological disorders. Core Dimensions of Animal Welfare

: Creating associations between neutral and meaningful stimuli (e.g., a clicker and a treat).

Veterinary professionals must determine whether an animal’s unwanted behavior is rooted in a medical condition or a psychological issue.

Animal behavior is a critical aspect of veterinary science, as it can provide valuable insights into an animal's physical and mental health. Changes in behavior can be an early indicator of illness, pain, or stress, and can help veterinarians diagnose and treat medical conditions more effectively. For example, a decrease in appetite or a change in elimination habits can be indicative of a underlying medical issue, such as gastrointestinal disease or kidney stones.