What cavities are included in the dorsal body cavity?

The dorsal body cavity is comprised of two main subdivisions: the cranial cavity and the spinal cavity. The cranial cavity houses the brain, providing it with a protected environment encased by the skull. The spinal cavity, also known as the vertebral canal, contains the spinal cord, which is protected by the vertebrae of the spine. Together, these cavities are located on the posterior or dorsal side of the body, hence the name "dorsal body cavity."

In contrast, the thoracic and abdominal cavities are part of the ventral body cavity, which is situated on the anterior side of the body. Similarly, the pelvic cavity is considered part of the abdominopelvic cavity and is also not included in the definition of the dorsal body cavity. Understanding the differentiation between these cavities is critical in anatomy and physiology, especially in veterinary medicine, as it helps in diagnosing and treating conditions related to specific body areas.