Final answer:
The correct handling of animals in veterinary practice requires interpreting an animal's behaviors and facial expressions before proceeding, as no two animals are alike and the approach must be tailored to the individual.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct statement about handling animals in a veterinary practice is d. You must interpret an animal's behaviors and facial expressions before handling it. Each animal is unique and can respond differently to handling techniques. Veterinary professionals must be adept at reading animal behavior to ensure the safety of both the animal and the handlers. Owners should not be relied upon to hold their animals as they may not be trained in proper restraint, and doing so could result in injury to the owner or the staff. Not all animals can be handled in the same manner because species, individual temperaments, and health conditions all influence how an animal should be approached and handled. While teamwork is important in a veterinary setting, the idea that one should never handle an animal without assistance is not practical due to variable staffing and situational demands. It is crucial, however, to have protocols in place that allow for assistance when needed, especially with potentially dangerous or uncooperative animals.