In addition to the behavior modification plan, Dr. Taylor prescribed a medication to help manage Max's anxiety. She chose a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which was commonly used to treat anxiety in dogs. The medication would help regulate Max's mood and reduce his stress levels.
Clinical ethology—the study of animal behavior in a veterinary context—has shifted from a niche interest to a core component of general practice. This change is driven by the understanding that a "healthy" animal is not merely one free of disease, but one that is mentally stimulated and emotionally stable.
The story also highlights the critical role that veterinary science plays in understanding and addressing animal behavior. Veterinarians like Dr. Taylor are uniquely positioned to diagnose and treat medical conditions that can impact an animal's behavior, and their knowledge of animal behavior and welfare enables them to develop effective behavior modification plans.