A six-year-old retriever presents for sudden, uncharacteristic growling when his hips are touched. The owner assumes behavioral aggression. A veterinary behaviorist, however, suspects a physical cause. Radiographs reveal severe hip dysplasia. The "aggression" was a pain response. Treat the joints, and the behavior resolves within two weeks.
Chronic activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis leads to elevated cortisol, which damages the hippocampus (memory, emotion regulation) and sensitizes the amygdala (fear responses). Hair cortisol concentration is now a validated biomarker for long-term stress in dogs, cats, and horses. zooskool com horse rapidshare free
Behavioral issues are the number one cause of euthanasia in domestic dogs and cats under three years of age. Not cancer. Not old age. Behavior. Radiographs reveal severe hip dysplasia
Based on the findings of this report, we recommend: Not cancer. Not old age. Behavior.