On which animal were many surgical procedures first studied?

The dog is often considered a key model in the study of surgical procedures due to its anatomical and physiological similarities to humans, as well as its size, which allows for easier manipulation during surgical practices. Dogs have been integral to veterinary medicine and surgical training, serving as subjects in various studies that have paved the way for advancements in surgical techniques.

Historically, many surgical techniques and practices were developed through procedures performed on dogs, laying the groundwork for veterinary surgery as a whole. The use of this species has allowed veterinarians and researchers to refine their skills and techniques before applying them more broadly.

While other animals, such as rabbits, cats, and mice, have been used in veterinary and biomedical research, the dog has played a particularly prominent role in the evolution of surgical methodologies and is often the subject of extensive surgical research due to its relevance to both veterinary and comparative medicine.