Simultaneously, the field of veterinary psychopharmacology is expanding. Veterinarians now utilize targeted neurotransmitter modulators, including Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs), and novel alpha-2 adrenoceptor agonists. These medications are not used to sedate or "dope" the animal, but rather to lower their baseline anxiety to a level where cognitive learning and behavior modification can actually take place. Conclusion
Chemical imbalances in the brain can lead to chronic anxiety, compulsive disorders, and abnormal aggression in animals. For example, a lack of sufficient serotonin can cause hyper-reactivity in dogs. When these imbalances occur, behavioral modification training alone is rarely enough; medical intervention is required. 🩺 Medical Conditions That Mimic Behavioral Issues
Frontiers in Veterinary Science | Animal Behavior and Welfare