The use of behaviourally-active medication in companion animals part 3

Abstract

Behaviour cases are common in general practice and veterinary nurses can play a vital role in their identification and management. Full behavioural assessment and implementation of a behaviour modification protocol remains essential, but increasingly animals may also be prescribed psychoactive medications. The third part of this article outlines some of the ways in which veterinary nurses can contribute to improving the behavioural welfare of the animals under their care. In addition to being behaviourally aware at all times when handling animals in the veterinary surgery, veterinary nurses can play an important role in identifying those cases that may benefit from additional behavioural support and, where appropriate, behaviourally-active medication. Knowing what to expect when animals are treated with these medications will also ensure that nurses can best support the owners of animals that are undergoing treatment.