More than medicine: behavioural care for hospitalised canine patients

Hospitalisation exposes dogs to numerous physical, behavioural and emotional challenges that may compromise welfare and adversely affect clinical recovery. While veterinary care prioritises physical health, increasing evidence demonstrates that emotional wellbeing influences physiological responses, healing and treatment outcomes. This article explores how an empathetic, behaviourally informed approach can improve the hospital experience by considering the patient's perspective. Drawing on the Welfare Domains Model, it outlines practical strategies to minimise fear and promote positive experiences throughout hospitalisation. Key recommendations include preparing dogs before admission, individualising care through behavioural histories, optimising kennel allocation and environmental design, maintaining predictable routines, providing species-appropriate activity, adapting handling techniques to individual needs and incorporating behavioural observations into routine clinical records. Recognising that dogs differ in their previous experiences and behavioural coping strategies, the article emphasises flexible, patient-centred management rather than standardised protocols. By integrating behavioural science into everyday clinical practice, veterinary teams can enhance welfare, reduce stress and support improved recovery during hospitalisation.