For decades, veterinary science and animal behavior were treated as separate distinct fields. One dealt with the physical body; the other dealt with the mind. Today, however, modern veterinary medicine recognizes that you cannot treat one without understanding the other.

Behavioral screening in shelters ensures better matching between pets and owners, reducing the rate of "returns" and euthanasia.

In the wild, showing weakness makes an animal a target for predators. Because our domesticated companions retain many of these instincts, they are masters of disguise. A dog in severe pain may not always yelp; they might simply pant excessively, become clingy, or hide under the bed. A cat with a urinary tract infection may not just strain to pee; they may start urinating on the cool bathtub tile—a behavior owners often mistake for spite.

These specialists treat conditions that general practice vets might miss: