Habituation occurs when an animal stops reacting to a harmless, repeated stimulus, like traffic noise. Sensitization happens when a stimulus causes an increasingly intense reaction, such as a worsening fear of thunderstorms. Behavioral Signs of Medical Issues
Researchers are identifying genes associated with specific traits (e.g., noise phobia in Border Collies, aggression in certain lines). Soon, breeders may use genetic screening to select against heritable behavioral disorders before a puppy is even born. Habituation occurs when an animal stops reacting to
Animal behavior and veterinary science are two sides of the same coin. A veterinarian cannot fully treat the physical body without addressing the emotional state, just as a behavior professional cannot modify a behavior without understanding the animal's underlying physiology. noise phobia in Border Collies