How does knowing an animal's behavior assist during its handling?

Understanding an animal's behavior is crucial during handling because it allows the handler to anticipate how the animal may react in various situations. By studying and recognizing behavioral cues, a handler can predict an animal's reactions to stressors or changes in their environment, making it easier to approach, restrain, and provide care safely. This knowledge helps reduce the risk of injury to both the animal and the handler, facilitating a smoother handling experience and promoting trust between the animal and the caregiver.

The ability to predict reactions is fundamental because animals can exhibit a range of responses based on their past experiences, temperament, and current emotional state. Properly reading these signals can also aid in de-escalating potentially stressful encounters and ensuring the animal remains calm and cooperative during handling procedures.