As companion animals become more central to individuals and families, there are countless ways that
veterinary medical practice can benefit from understanding human psychology. This article highlights
how insights from the fields of health psychology and behavioral medicine might hold the potential to
improve veterinary practice. We focus on key areas of care for companion animals that are integrally
linked to their human caregivers' psychological reactions and behavior, including health maintenance,
managing illness, and end-of-life care. We also note ways in which the challenges of skillfully
negotiating interactions with companion animal caregivers and other stressful aspects of the veterinary
profession may be informed by psychological and behavioral science expertise.
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