Veterinary practice as we know it today is a very recent development. Despite the deep historical roots of man’s interest in animal husbandry and medicine, this particular combination was not pursued as a specialized vocation until the tail end of the seventeenth century. Prior to that, medical care for animals consisted of a hodgepodge of folk remedies, herbs, and modified human medical treatments. It was not until the early twentieth century that veterinary care as we know it today began to emerge.

Amy Fernandez is a multi award winning dog writer.