Sometimes, an animal’s brain chemistry prevents them from learning. Just as in human medicine, veterinary science has advanced to include behavioral pharmacology.

Veterinary science is now training practitioners to read the subtle signs of chronic pain:

"In veterinary science, we look for the 'what,'" Aris explained. "A tumor, a toxin, a deficiency. But in behavior, we look for the 'why'."

Behavioral changes are also critical for diagnosing neurological disorders. Compulsive circling, head pressing, sudden onset of aggression, or changes in sleep-wake cycles can point to brain tumors, encephalitis, or cognitive dysfunction syndrome (similar to Alzheimer’s in humans). Without a deep understanding of normal versus abnormal behavior, these subtle neurological red flags are easily dismissed as "old age" or "bad habits."