What does the axial skeleton primarily protect?

The axial skeleton primarily protects the internal organs by providing a stable structure for the body. This part of the skeleton includes the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage, which play critical roles in shielding vital organs. For instance, the skull safeguards the brain, the rib cage protects the heart and lungs, and the vertebral column encases the spinal cord. Each of these components is essential for maintaining the integrity and function of the organs they protect, ensuring that the body's systems operate efficiently. Understanding the roles of the axial skeleton in this protective capacity is crucial in animal management, as it relates to the health and well-being of the animals under care.