To be a veterinarian, one must be knowledgeable about many things -- anatomy, physiology, infectious diseases, surgery, and so on. What about just "everyday" behavior? Knowing what is "normal" for a particular species or individual? This Viewer Viewpoint piece examines the topic of animal behavior in the veterinary office setting.
Submitted by Bethany P.
For me, it’s not enough for a vet to be knowledgeable. I expect to see some common sense about the behavior of animals.
I have had my dog for about two years. Upon bringing him home, I discovered that he had pretty bad problems with boredom, anxiety, and fear-based aggression. I worked with him constantly for a year and a half before I felt that he was mentally and psychologically stable. But when I bring him to the vet, he becomes a little nervous. This is perfectly understandable; I would be nervous as well.
What annoys me is the reaction he gets from the staff at the clinic. They will sweet talk him and gently coax him, then give me evil looks when I’m firm with him. I know my dog, and treating him "sweetly" when he’s anxious only encourages him. He thinks that what he’s doing is right, and he continues doing it to get more attention. Firm guidance and authority have always worked in the past, but I can’t do anything with him in the vet’s office because of the atmosphere [at the vet's office].
I’m planning on being a vet myself (I start college later this year) and this is very disheartening. I know that I’m right and absolutely nothing can change my mind on this point. I just feel that vets and vet technicians should take a little time to study their patients from a behavioral stand point. Not just medically.
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NOTE: The views and opinions expressed in the Viewer Viewpoint are not necessarily your Guide's views and opinions.
