Ethology: Definition and Its Importance in Animal Welfare
Ethology can be defined as the study of animal behavior, its causation, and biological function. Behavior in turn can be defined as the sum of all observable or measurable and overall responses or even lack of response in some cases that occur in response to changes in an animal’s internal and external environment.
Behavior as a whole has a genetic basis, and hence is subjected to natural selection, and can be modified through experience and learning. Behavior may involve one individual reacting to a stimulus or a physiological change or it may also involve two individuals or a group reacting and responding to the activities of one another.Behavior is closely related to the welfare of the animal. Hence, behavioral studies help veterinarians and animal scientists to identify the cause of any abnormal behavior and address it. The behavior of the animals is bound to vary depending on the species, breed, age, sex, physiological status of the animal, and surrounding environment. An understanding of the behavior of animals will guide animal scientists to prevent and manage various behavioral disorders thus ensuring the welfare of the animal.
Behavioral issues are often encountered in various situations ranging from,
• rearing a newly weaned pup or calf
• milking reflex inhibition due to loss of calf
• transporting animals especially horses in trucks over long distances
• managing a newly adopted pet
• anxious behavior shown by a deserted pet or when it is temporally separated from the owner
• managing a large herd or group of animals in a farm
• managing animals in restricted enclosures such as zoos
• managing an anxious pet/farm animal suffering from fear/ pain presented to the veterinarian for treatment
• feeding behavior disorders leading to obesity or starvation, all of which have to be dealt with carefully
Further, it has been estimated that dogs, cats, and sometimes even horses are euthanized for behavioral problems than for any other single cause. Hence, behavioral studies help to guide the veterinarians to solve the problems before the animal becomes a potential danger to the owner or the public or before the owner can no longer live with the animal.
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