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Nielson SA, Khosa DK, Verbrugghe A, Clow KM. Talking treats: A qualitative study to understand the importance of treats in the pet-caregiver relationship. Prev Vet Med 2024; 226:106163. [PMID: 38461702 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2024.106163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Treats are a prevalent aspect of pet care, frequently given by dog and cat caregivers for varying reasons. However, recommendations of reducing or eliminating treat feeding poses a common challenge, leading to potential non-adherence surrounding weight management practices. To explore caregivers' perceptions and experiences surrounding treat feeding, we conducted five online focus groups with 24 dog and cat caregivers, recruited via an infographic shared on social media using snowball sampling. NVivo12© was used to organize and analyze verbatim transcripts using inductive thematic analysis. Outcomes illustrated three major themes: 1) the role of treats as an important tool for caregivers; 2) considerations for treat selection and provision; and 3) caregivers' need for more and better information and support related to treats. Participants emphasized the importance of treats for managing behaviours, health-related activities, and enhancing the pet-caregiver relationship. Results suggest that the diverse and valued applications of treats, caregivers' satisfaction associated with treat-giving, and perceived lack of guidance surrounding treats may present challenges for caregivers in reducing treat feeding with their pets. Findings highlight opportunities to enhance the available resources that can empower both veterinary professionals and caregivers to make well-informed decisions and foster sustainable changes in treat feeding practices to support weight management and overall health. Such considerations can improve client compliance with veterinary recommendations, to promote companion animal health and well-being while fostering the human-animal bond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelby A Nielson
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Deep K Khosa
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Adronie Verbrugghe
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Katie M Clow
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
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Mattila M, Honkanen S, Sjögren T, Piirainen A, Aartolahti E. Interaction during equine-facilitated rehabilitation from the rehabilitees' perspective - A phenomenological study. Physiother Theory Pract 2024; 40:999-1010. [PMID: 36437737 DOI: 10.1080/09593985.2022.2151332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Interaction has a multidimensional role in equine-facilitated rehabilitation. PURPOSE The aim of this study was to understand rehabilitees' experiences of interaction during equine-facilitated rehabilitation. METHODS Six children and four adults with individual diagnoses or reasons to participate in equine-facilitated rehabilitation were included in this qualitative study. Data were collected by interviewing individually the rehabilitees. A phenomenological Spiegelberg's seven-phase meaning analysis was performed to reveal the meanings. RESULTS Seven meanings were identified: 1) Trust; 2) Friendly horse; 3) Mirror of feelings; 4) Inspiring riding; 5) Feeling competent; 6) Rehabilitee-oriented approach; and 7) Uniting experience. In addition, the essential meanings of the phenomenon form three different circles: circle of recognition, circle of supporting active agency and circle of empowerment. CONCLUSION Interaction during equine-facilitated rehabilitation is essential to rehabilitees in many ways that have important roles in the entire rehabilitation process that aims for empowerment in the rehabilitees' daily lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minna Mattila
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Sari Honkanen
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Tuulikki Sjögren
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Arja Piirainen
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Eeva Aartolahti
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Institute of Rehabilitation, JAMK University of Applied Science, Jyväskylä, Finland
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3
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Duarte Cardoso S, da Graça Pereira G, de Sousa L, Faraco CB, Piotti P, Pirrone F. Factors behind the Relinquishment of Dogs and Cats by their Guardians in Portugal. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2024; 27:304-315. [PMID: 35698728 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2022.2087183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
In Portugal, the relinquishment of dogs and cats is a major problem. Thus, the authors developed a questionnaire to understand the factors influencing the relinquishment of companion animals in Portugal. With a view to analyze the factors behind relinquishment by companion animal guardians, the authors analyzed surveys completed by 72 participants, divided into two groups: REL (relinquisher, n = 36), i.e., guardians who had relinquished a companion animal and NREL (non-relinquisher, n = 36) i.e., guardians who had never relinquished a companion animal. The only significant factors for the REL group were the presence of children and the type of dwelling (apartment). Additionally, the duration of guardianship of the companion animal before relinquishment (REL group) was significantly shorter if there were children in the household than if there were no children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Duarte Cardoso
- Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- SOS Animal Portugal, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Gonçalo da Graça Pereira
- School of Agrarian Studies of Elvas, Polytechnics Institute of Portalegre, Elvas, Portugal
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - Liliana de Sousa
- Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Patrizia Piotti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Federica Pirrone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
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Kis A, Tóth K, Langner L, Topál J. Dogs' social susceptibility is differentially affected by various dog-Human interactions. A study on family dogs, former shelter dogs and therapy dogs. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300889. [PMID: 38512916 PMCID: PMC10956857 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
When pre-treated with social stimuli prior to testing, dogs are more susceptible to human influence in a food preference task. This means, after a positive social interaction they are more willing to choose the smaller amount of food indicated by the human, as opposed to their baseline preference for the bigger amount. In the current study we investigate if and how various forms of social interaction modulate choices in the same social susceptibility task, testing dogs with varying early life history (pet dogs, therapy dogs, former shelter dogs). In line with previous studies, dogs in general were found to be susceptible to human influence as reflected in the reduced number of "bigger" choices in the human influence, compared to baseline, trials. This was true not only for pet dogs with a normal life history, but also for dogs adopted from a shelter. Therapy dogs, however, did not uniformly change their preference for the bigger quantity of food in the human influence trials; they only did so if prior to testing they had been pre-treated with social stimuli by their owner (but not by a stranger). Pet dogs were also more influenced after pre-treatment with social stimuli by their owner compared to ignoring and separation; however after pre-treatment by a stranger their behaviour did not differ from ignoring and separation. Former shelter dogs on the other hand were equally influenced regardless of pre-treatment by owner versus stranger. In summary these results show that dogs' social susceptibility is modulated by both interactions immediately preceding the test as well as by long term social experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kis
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology, Budapest, Hungary
- ELTE-HunRen NAP Comparative Ethology Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katinka Tóth
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Lívia Langner
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - József Topál
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology, Budapest, Hungary
- ELTE-HunRen NAP Comparative Ethology Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
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Martins CF, Silva L, Soares J, Pinto GS, Abrantes C, Cardoso L, Pires MA, Sousa H, Mota MP. Walk or be walked by the dog? The attachment role. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:684. [PMID: 38438977 PMCID: PMC10913448 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18037-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human-animal bond has been recognized as having positive effects on the health and well-being of both humans and pets. The present study aims to explore the influence of attachment on physical activity (PA), lifestyle, and health outcomes of dog owners (DO), highlighting the mutual benefits resulting from the relationship between DO and dogs. METHODS Thirty-eight DO and their dogs participated in this study. Socio-demographic data, the Self-Rated Health (SRH), FANTASTICO Lifestyle Scale, and the Lexington Attachment Pet Scale (LAPS) were assessed. PA was measured in both the DO and the dogs, using an ActiGraph GT3X accelerometer in the context of daily routine. Descriptive statistics and Spearman rank correlation analyses were performed to examine the associations between LAPS, PA levels, socio-demographic variables, lifestyle behaviors, and SRH. RESULTS Significant correlations were found between the dog owners' light-level PA and the pets' vigorous level of PA (rho = 0.445, p = 0.01). Furthermore, the importance of the pets' health (rho = -0.785, p = 0.02) and the LAPS subscales, namely proximity (rho = 0.358, p = 0.03), and attachment (rho = 0.392, p = 0.01), were related to taking the pet for a walk. Regarding lifestyle, DO with a healthier lifestyle had a better self-assessment of their health using the SRH (rho = 0.39, p = 0.02). Moreover, DO with better lifestyles also exhibited greater concern for their pet's health (rho = 0.398, p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS This study emphasizes that individuals who adopt healthier habits tend to perceive themselves as healthier and exhibit greater concern for their pets' health. The attachment between DO and dogs is important in promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors and engagement in PA. Our results highlight that the presence of a dog is associated with a higher level of PA in DO, depending on the strength of the human-animal bond.
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Grants
- NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078 This work was funded by the R&D&I project "oneHcancer- One health approach in animal cancer", the operation no.: NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078, co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through NORTE 2020 (North Portugal Regional Operational Program 2014/2020).
- NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078 This work was funded by the R&D&I project "oneHcancer- One health approach in animal cancer", the operation no.: NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078, co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through NORTE 2020 (North Portugal Regional Operational Program 2014/2020).
- NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078 This work was funded by the R&D&I project "oneHcancer- One health approach in animal cancer", the operation no.: NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078, co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through NORTE 2020 (North Portugal Regional Operational Program 2014/2020).
- NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078 This work was funded by the R&D&I project "oneHcancer- One health approach in animal cancer", the operation no.: NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078, co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through NORTE 2020 (North Portugal Regional Operational Program 2014/2020).
- NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078 This work was funded by the R&D&I project "oneHcancer- One health approach in animal cancer", the operation no.: NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078, co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through NORTE 2020 (North Portugal Regional Operational Program 2014/2020).
- NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078 This work was funded by the R&D&I project "oneHcancer- One health approach in animal cancer", the operation no.: NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078, co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through NORTE 2020 (North Portugal Regional Operational Program 2014/2020).
- NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078 This work was funded by the R&D&I project "oneHcancer- One health approach in animal cancer", the operation no.: NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078, co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through NORTE 2020 (North Portugal Regional Operational Program 2014/2020).
- NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078 This work was funded by the R&D&I project "oneHcancer- One health approach in animal cancer", the operation no.: NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078, co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through NORTE 2020 (North Portugal Regional Operational Program 2014/2020).
- NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078 This work was funded by the R&D&I project "oneHcancer- One health approach in animal cancer", the operation no.: NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078, co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through NORTE 2020 (North Portugal Regional Operational Program 2014/2020).
- This work was funded by the R&D&I project “oneHcancer– One health approach in animal cancer”, the operation no.: NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000078, co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through NORTE 2020 (North Portugal Regional Operational Program 2014/2020).
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina F Martins
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health, and Human Development (CIDESD), University of Trás-os- Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal.
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences (ECVA), UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal.
| | - Luís Silva
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health, and Human Development (CIDESD), University of Trás-os- Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences (ECVA), UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Jorge Soares
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health, and Human Development (CIDESD), University of Trás-os- Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences (ECVA), UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Graça S Pinto
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health, and Human Development (CIDESD), University of Trás-os- Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences (ECVA), UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Catarina Abrantes
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health, and Human Development (CIDESD), University of Trás-os- Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences (ECVA), UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Luís Cardoso
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), UTAD, and Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, School of Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences (ECAV), UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Maria A Pires
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), UTAD, and Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, School of Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences (ECAV), UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Hélder Sousa
- Department of Mathematics (DM), UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
- Center for Computational and Stochastic Mathematics (CEMAT), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria P Mota
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health, and Human Development (CIDESD), University of Trás-os- Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, School of Life and Environmental Sciences (ECVA), UTAD, Vila Real, Portugal
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Vékony K, Pongrácz P. Many faces of dominance: the manifestation of cohabiting companion dogs' rank in competitive and non-competitive scenarios. Anim Cogn 2024; 27:12. [PMID: 38429548 PMCID: PMC10907432 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-024-01842-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
There are indications that companion dogs of multi-dog households form a hierarchy, maintained by formal and agonistic dominance. Although it was found that the behaviour of dogs depends on their rank in several contexts, so far, the assessment of their rank itself has been based on owner-completed questionnaires. With this research we endeavoured to find associations between rank scores from the Dog Rank Assessment Questionnaire (DRA-Q) and cohabiting dogs' behaviour in a competitive test (Toy Possession test-32 dog pairs) and a non-competitive, citizen science scenario (Greeting test-20 dog pairs). Based on the grabbing the toy first and keeping the toy at the end variables, the dogs' rank score provided a reliable indication of the dominant and subordinate dogs' behaviour in the Toy Possession test. Similarly, the occurrence of dominant and submissive behaviours in the Greeting Test showed a good match with the agonistic and leadership subscores of the composite rank score from the DRA-Q. Our results provide a pioneering case for validating a questionnaire-based rank scoring method with biologically meaningful behavioural tests in the case of companion dogs. The finer analysis of the results highlighted that in the case of a multi-question scoring system, some components might provide more effective prediction of the dogs' rank-related behaviour in some situations, while other components are more relevant in others, with traits related to agonistic dominance having relevance across contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kata Vékony
- Department of Ethology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Pázmány Péter Sétány 1/c, Budapest, 1117, Hungary.
| | - Péter Pongrácz
- Department of Ethology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Pázmány Péter Sétány 1/c, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
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Matijczak A, Yates MS, Ruiz MC, Santos LR, Kazdin AE, Raila H. The influence of interactions with pet dogs on psychological distress. Emotion 2024; 24:384-396. [PMID: 37561519 DOI: 10.1037/emo0001256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Many people, including nearly half of American households, own a pet dog. Previous work has found that therapy dog interactions reduce distress, but little work to date has empirically established the mood-enhancing effects of interaction with one's own pet dog. In this study, dog owners (N = 73; 86.3% female, 13.7% male; age 25-77 years) underwent a stress-inducing task followed by random assignment to either (a) interacting with their dog (n = 24), (b) an expectancy control (n = 25; "stress-reducing" coloring books), or (c) a waiting control (n = 24). We compared the effects of each condition on affect and state anxiety. Participants assigned to the dog interaction showed greater increases in positive affect, as well as greater reductions in anxiety compared to both expectancy and waiting controls (ds > 0.72, ps < .018). No significant reductions in negative affect were detected. Second, we found that self-reported experiences with animals, attitudes toward animals, or bondedness with their dog did not differentially predict the condition's impact on the owner's mood. Finally, we coded participants' degree of engagement (e.g., time spent playing) with the dog and found that higher engagement predicted reduced negative affect. Overall, interacting with one's own pet dog reduced owners' distress. Such interactions, which occur commonly in daily life, may have the potential to alleviate distress at a large scale. Precisely how this works and for whom it is especially well suited remain intriguing open questions. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Morgan S Yates
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Santa Cruz
| | | | | | | | - Hannah Raila
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Santa Cruz
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Heys M, Lloyd I, Westgarth C. 'Bowls are boring': Investigating enrichment feeding for pet dogs and the perceived benefits and challenges. Vet Rec 2024; 194:e3169. [PMID: 37349956 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.3169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Canine enrichment feeding (CEF) is recommended by canine professionals, yet research into its use by dog owners is absent. This study is the first to investigate who uses CEF and the perceived benefits and barriers. METHODS A cross-sectional survey advertised in July and August 2021 received 1750 usable responses about owner and dog demographics, feeding methods used, canine quality of life and behaviour (Mini-Canine Behavioural Assessment and Research Questionnaire [C-BARQ]). RESULTS Kongs, chews and activity toys were the most popular forms of CEF. CEF was most often used for a treat, delivering meals and keeping dogs busy. Owners not using CEF were more likely to be male and older. Dogs not fed using CEF were more likely to be older, of working type and have lower exercise needs. Furthermore, they were less likely to show meal interest, dog-directed fear or training difficulties. A common perceived benefit was mental stimulation; however, lack of time was commonly perceived to be a barrier. Certain feeding methods were associated with perceptions of reduced hunger and begging. LIMITATIONS The survey methodology means there is a risk of selection bias and conclusions cannot be drawn about causation. CONCLUSION CEF was perceived by most owners to benefit behavioural problems and reduce food seeking. Further research using experimental research designs is required to establish causality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline Heys
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Imogen Lloyd
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Carri Westgarth
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
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Research grants available for studying the human-animal bond. Vet Rec 2024; 194:iii. [PMID: 38362987 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.3987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
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10
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Hauser H. Separation-related Problems and Their Interaction with Physical Disease. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2024; 54:29-42. [PMID: 37718126 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2023.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
The condition of separation-related problems (SRPs) is common in companion dogs and clinicians should be comfortable diagnosing it. There are numerous diagnoses related to physical disease that have clinical signs similar to SRP, that exacerbate SRP, or may cause regression in treatment of SRP. Common examples include conditions affecting the following systems: musculoskeletal, neurologic, gastrointestinal, and dermatologic. Therefore, it is important for clinicians to rule out causes of physical disease and address them accordingly. The signalment of the patient, medications they are receiving, and other behavioral comorbidities should also be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hagar Hauser
- Metropolitan Veterinary Associates, 2626 Van Buren Avenue, Norristown, PA 19403, USA.
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11
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Babcock SL. How do veterinarians mitigate liability concerns with workforce shortages? J Am Vet Med Assoc 2024; 262:145-151. [PMID: 37879365 DOI: 10.2460/javma.23.06.0341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
The challenge of meeting pet healthcare demands with inadequate staff resources creates legal and ethical considerations for the veterinary profession. Inadequate staffing can result in access to care issues that impact companion animal health, public health, and the human animal bond. An overburdened work environment may also result in liability issues related to standard of care, client dissatisfaction, and subsequent complaints. The following recommendations may ameliorate the legal and ethical impacts to include: a focus on how to optimize current resources (human and technology); improve client communications and medical record-keeping strategies; promote preventive care; develop and memorialize clinical standard operating procedures; and prioritize staff well-being to prevent burn out. These recommendations should be considered good practices when functioning under optimal conditions but are even more valuable to implement effectively in an overburdened companion animal medicine environment.
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12
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Dror S, Miklósi Á, Sommese A, Fugazza C. A citizen science model turns anecdotes into evidence by revealing similar characteristics among Gifted Word Learner dogs. Sci Rep 2023; 13:21747. [PMID: 38097634 PMCID: PMC10721640 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47864-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Dogs that have a vocabulary of object labels (Gifted Word Learner dogs-GWL dogs) have great potential as a comparative model for studying a variety of cognitive mechanisms. However, only a handful of studies, with a small sample size of 1 or 2 dogs, have examined this phenomenon. GWL dogs appear to share many of the same distinctive characteristics, but due to their rarity, it is not clear if these similarities are only anecdotal or indeed reflect characteristics that are similar in these rare individuals. Here we present the first study conducted on a relatively large sample of 41 GWL dogs that were recruited and tested using a citizen science model. After testing the dogs' receptive vocabulary of toy names, we asked the owners to complete a questionnaire about their and their dog's life experiences. Our findings highlight several characteristics that are shared among most GWL dogs, such as their learning speed, their large vocabulary, and that they learned the names of the toys spontaneously, without the explicit intent of their owners. Our findings validate previous anecdotal evidence on common characteristics of GWL dogs and supply additional support to the hypothesis that these dogs represent a unique group of dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shany Dror
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Pázmány P. s 1c, 6th Floor, Budapest, 1117, Hungary.
- Doctoral School of Biology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Ádám Miklósi
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Pázmány P. s 1c, 6th Floor, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
- MTA-ELTE Comparative Ethology Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
- ELTE-ELKH NAP Comparative Ethology Research, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Andrea Sommese
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Pázmány P. s 1c, 6th Floor, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
| | - Claudia Fugazza
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Pázmány P. s 1c, 6th Floor, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
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Barcelos AM, Kargas N, Assheton P, Maltby J, Hall S, Mills DS. Dog owner mental health is associated with dog behavioural problems, dog care and dog-facilitated social interaction: a prospective cohort study. Sci Rep 2023; 13:21734. [PMID: 38066034 PMCID: PMC10709316 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48731-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite numerous qualitative and cross-sectional studies investigating how dog-related factors may impact owners' well-being, empirical studies to test these causal effects are lacking. This prospective cohort study examined the correlation and potential causal effect of 17 dog-related factors with six well-being outcomes (depression, anxiety, loneliness, suicidal ideation, hedonic well-being and eudaimonic well-being) in dog owners. Over a four-week period, 709 adult dog owners reported their weekly well-being and occurrence of each dog-related factor (e.g. how many times they ran with their dogs). A random intercept cross-lagged panel model (RI-CLPM) with significance threshold set at 0.001 was used. Six factors correlated with poorer owner well-being (i.e. aggressive dog behaviour, fearful dog behaviour, poor dog health, failure to provide for the dog, lack of control over the dog, and dog presence). Only 'friendly conversation with others due to the dog' correlated with better well-being. Purposeful reductions in the frequency of dog behavioural and health-related issues are likely to improve owner well-being, as well as greater consistency in dog care (i.e. provide for the dog) and more engagement in friendly dog-facilitated social interactions. No potential causal effects were significant. Further studies investigating causal relationships are essential to improve people's well-being through dog ownership.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Niko Kargas
- School of Psychology, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
| | | | - John Maltby
- School of Psychology and Vision Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Sophie Hall
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, NG7 2RD, Nottingham, UK
| | - Daniel S Mills
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
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14
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Cavalli C, Dzik MV, Barrera G, Bentosela M. Still-face effect in domestic dogs: comparing untrained with trained and animal assisted interventions dogs. Learn Behav 2023; 51:428-445. [PMID: 37407789 DOI: 10.3758/s13420-023-00589-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
The still-face effect has been extensively studied in human infants and comprises the reduction in affiliative behaviors and increased stress that occurs after a sudden interruption of social interaction with a caregiver. Domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) are model candidates for showing this effect, as they form deep bonds with their owners and interspecific social interaction is reinforcing to them. The aim of these studies was to assess if companion dogs exhibit the still-face effect and whether prior experiences during ontogeny modulate this effect. To this end, Study 1 compared dogs with different levels of training (untrained, intermediate, and advanced), while Study 2 assessed dogs that participated in Animal Assisted Interventions (AAIs) and companion dogs (CDs). The procedure was carried out virtually and comprised three phases lasting 1 min: interaction, still-face (the owner turned suddenly indifferent), and reunion (the interaction was resumed). Dogs exhibited a decrease in proximity to and contact with the owner, as well as an increase in begging and stress behaviors during the still-face phase. Moreover, this was not observed in a control condition in which the interaction continued in the same way during all three phases, discarding alternative explanations for these changes. These results show that dogs experience a still-face effect in a similar way to infants, highlighting the value interspecific social interaction has for dogs. Nevertheless, the absence of differences according to their training level or participation in AAIs suggests this is a robust phenomenon, which appears to be less susceptible to the influences of ontogenetic experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Cavalli
- Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas A. Lanari, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Combatientes de Malvinas 3150, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de investigaciones Médicas (IDIM), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Combatientes de Malvinas 3150, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M V Dzik
- Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas A. Lanari, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Combatientes de Malvinas 3150, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de investigaciones Médicas (IDIM), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Combatientes de Malvinas 3150, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - G Barrera
- Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas A. Lanari, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Combatientes de Malvinas 3150, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- EtoCanis - Comportamiento canino y vínculo humano - perro, Valencia, España
| | - M Bentosela
- Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas A. Lanari, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Combatientes de Malvinas 3150, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de investigaciones Médicas (IDIM), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Combatientes de Malvinas 3150, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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15
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Webb M, Thwaites B, Mullineaux E, Calder C, Waddon V, Hayes E, Gaines S, Flynn M. Dog behaviour influenced by more than genetics. Vet Rec 2023; 193:415-416. [PMID: 37975441 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.3697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
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16
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Applebaum JW, McDonald SE, Widmeyer M, Fabelo HE, Cook RL. The impact of pet ownership on healthcare access and utilization among people with HIV. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292658. [PMID: 37910449 PMCID: PMC10619778 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Though bonds with pets can be health-promoting for people with HIV (PWH), recent studies indicate that owning pets may complicate healthcare access, especially for those with fewer economic resources, poorer social support, and a strong human-animal bond. In this study, we make a case for considering pets to be an important element of the social environment that can influence healthcare access and utilization among PWH. Pet-owning PWH (n = 204) were recruited at healthcare and community sites throughout Florida as part of a larger survey study (the “Florida Cohort”). We developed a 12-item index of pet-related barriers to healthcare, which was designed to assess whether the participants experienced or anticipated any barriers to accessing and/or utilizing timely healthcare or health-related services due to pet caregiving or concerns about pet welfare. We estimated a series of regression models (negative binomial, logistic regression) to assess the effects of comfort from companion animals, human social support, healthcare needs, and sociodemographic characteristics on 1) the total number of pet-related healthcare barriers endorsed, 2) previously experienced pet-related healthcare barriers, and 3) anticipated pet-related healthcare barriers. Thirty-six percent of the sample reported at least one experienced or anticipated pet-related barrier to their healthcare; 17% reported previous healthcare barriers and 31% anticipated future healthcare barriers. Greater comfort from companion animals, greater healthcare needs, and poorer social support were associated with a greater probability of experiencing or anticipating any pet-related healthcare barriers. Those who identified racially as Black were less likely to anticipate future healthcare barriers than those who were White. Income was associated with pet-related healthcare barriers in all models. Given the importance of health maintenance for PWH and previous research suggesting pets may be an important emotional support for this population, social safety net programs and community partnerships that support multispecies families are strongly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer W. Applebaum
- Department of Environmental & Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Shelby E. McDonald
- Community Research and Evaluation, Denver Zoological Foundation, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Maya Widmeyer
- Unconditional Love, Inc., Melbourne, Florida, United States of America
| | - Humberto E. Fabelo
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Robert L. Cook
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United Stated of America
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17
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Croney C, Udell M, Delgado M, Ekenstedt K, Shoveller AK. CATastrophic myths part 1: Common misconceptions about the social behavior of domestic cats and implications for their health, welfare, and management. Vet J 2023; 300-302:106028. [PMID: 37683761 PMCID: PMC10841747 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2023.106028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Cats are among the most popular pets worldwide, but there are still major gaps in the public's general understanding of their social behaviors and related needs, including for socialization. In addition to these knowledge gaps, people often have negative or ambivalent attitudes about cats, which can directly impact their welfare outcomes. Insufficient attention to the behavioral ecology and development of cat sociality, along with failure to account for their highly variable individual preferences and tolerance for social behaviors can lead them to experience distress that undermines both their welfare and the human-animal bond. As Part 1 of a two-part series addressing common myths about cats, the purpose of this first paper is to review and debunk common misperceptions about the social needs and behaviors of cats, including misunderstandings about their social lives and abilities to bond with humans. We also identify where opportunities exist to improve socialization of cats and to advance research in related areas that might better support their behavior and welfare needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candace Croney
- Center for Animal Welfare Science, Purdue University, 625 Harrison St., West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
| | - Monique Udell
- Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences, Oregon State University, 2921 SW Campus Way, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | | | - Kari Ekenstedt
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, 625 Harrison St., West Lafayette, IN 47907 USA
| | - Anna Kate Shoveller
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
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18
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Buttner AP, Awalt SL, Strasser R. Early life adversity in dogs produces altered physiological and behavioral responses during a social stress-buffering paradigm. J Exp Anal Behav 2023; 120:6-20. [PMID: 37210677 DOI: 10.1002/jeab.856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Although owners can act as stress buffers for their dogs, whether dogs with poor early life histories with humans will respond similarly is unknown. We tested 45 dogs, 23 of which were rescued from adverse conditions, in a social paradigm in which a threatening stranger confronted them with either their owner or an unfamiliar human present. Salivary cortisol levels were assessed at three points, and the dogs' behavior and owners' responses to questionnaires were evaluated. Dogs from adverse backgrounds engaged in greater contact and exhibited more relaxed behaviors and social referencing when their owners were present. Dogs from the comparison group explored more when accompanied by their owners. Dogs from adverse backgrounds experienced greater decreases in cortisol levels from the first to third samples relative to dogs in the comparison group. Dogs from adverse backgrounds were also more likely to respond fearfully to a threatening stranger. Their owners rated them as having higher levels of stranger-directed fear, nonsocial fear, separation-related problems, attention seeking, and lower levels of chasing and trainability. These findings from this study suggest that early adverse environments may have lasting effects on dogs' social behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia P Buttner
- Department of Psychology-Neuroscience & Behavior, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, USA
| | - Samantha L Awalt
- Department of Psychology-Neuroscience & Behavior, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, USA
| | - Rosemary Strasser
- Department of Psychology-Neuroscience & Behavior, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, USA
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19
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Waite MR, Kodak TM. Owner-implemented paired-stimulus food preference assessments for companion dogs. J Exp Anal Behav 2023; 120:62-77. [PMID: 37414742 DOI: 10.1002/jeab.846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Behavioral interventions for animals typically require the inclusion of programmed reinforcers. Although pet owners and human caregivers can often identify items that the animal will consume, preference assessments can more accurately determine relative preference rankings between various stimuli, which is important given that higher preferred items tend to function as more effective reinforcers than lower preferred items. Preference assessments have been developed to identify rankings for a variety of stimuli across species, including the domesticated dog (Canis lupus familiaris). However, previous preference assessments for dogs were developed for laboratory use and could be challenging for dog owners to perform alone. The purpose of this study was to modify existing dog preference assessment methods to produce a valid and feasible preference assessment for dog owners. Results suggest that the preference assessment identified preference rankings for individual dogs. Owners were able to implement the protocol with high integrity and found the protocol acceptable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mindy R Waite
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 2441 E. Hartford Ave. Milwaukee, WI, 53211, United States of America
- Department of Life Sciences, Animal Behavior program, Carroll University, 130 W. College Ave. Waukesha, WI, 53186, USA
| | - Tiffany M Kodak
- Behavior Analysis program, Marquette University, 525 N. 6th St. Milwaukee, WI, 53203, USA
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20
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Roseveare C, Breheny M, Mansvelt J, Murray L, Wilkie M, Gates MC. Companion Animal Fostering as Health Promotion: A Literature Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:6199. [PMID: 37444047 PMCID: PMC10340564 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20136199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
There is growing interest in the health-promoting potential of human-companion animal relationships from a broad public health perspective while acknowledging barriers to ownership, particularly for older adults. Companion animal fostering is an alternative to pet ownership that aligns with the Ottawa Charter health promotion principle that caring for others in everyday settings promotes health. This narrative review of the literature on companion animal fostering draws on Te Whare Tapa Whā (the four-sided house), an indigenous model of health that is influential in Aotearoa/New Zealand, and the Ottawa Charter. We found that companion animal fostering can be considered health-promoting for human and non-human animals, using a broad and multidimensional understanding of health. As well as improving the long-term outcomes for homeless animals, companion animal fostering has the potential to promote the health of the individuals, families, and communities who provide foster homes. Our review highlights the importance of health promoters considering the reciprocal relationship between human and animal health. Future research should explore different aspects of human and non-human health, perspectives of different types of fosterers in different settings and communities, barriers to fostering, and methods that explore the role of caring for a wider range of companion animals in creating and sustaining wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary Breheny
- School of Health, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6012, New Zealand;
| | - Juliana Mansvelt
- School of People, Environment and Planning, Massey University, Palmerston North 4410, New Zealand;
| | - Linda Murray
- School of Health Sciences, Massey University, Wellington 6140, New Zealand;
| | - Marg Wilkie
- Research Centre for Hauora and Health, Massey University, Wellington 6140, New Zealand
| | - M. Carolyn Gates
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4410, New Zealand;
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21
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Hoy-Gerlach J, Townsend L. Reimagining Healthcare: Human-Animal Bond Support as a Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Public Health Intervention. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:5272. [PMID: 37047888 PMCID: PMC10094350 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20075272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of human-animal support services (HASS)-services provided to help keep people and their companion animals together-in the United States has been driven by two global public health crises. Despite such impetuses and an increasing recognition of One Health approaches, HASS are generally not recognized as public health interventions. The Ottawa Charter, defining health as well-being and resources for living and calling for cross-sector action to advance such, provides a clear rationale for locating HASS within a public health framework. Drawing from Ottawa Charter tenets and using the United States as a case study, we: (1) recognize and explicate HASS as public health resources for human and animal well-being and (2) delineate examples of HASS within the three-tiered public health intervention framework. HASS examples situated in the three-tier framework reveal a public health continuum for symbiotic well-being and health. Humans and their respective companion animals may need different levels of intervention to optimize mutual well-being. Tenets of the Ottawa Charter provide a clear rationale for recognizing and promoting HASS as One Health public health interventions; doing so enables cross-sector leveraging of resources and offers a symbiotic strategy for human and animal well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Hoy-Gerlach
- OneHealth People-Animal Wellness Services (OHPAWS), Toledo, OH 43606, USA
| | - Lisa Townsend
- Center for Human-Animal Interaction (CHAI), Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
- Children’s Hospital of Richmond, Richmond, VA 23230, USA
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22
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Lamontagne A, Legou T, Rauchbauer B, Grosbras MH, Fabre F, Gaunet F. Behavioural synchronization and social referencing of dogs and humans: walking in dyad vs in group. Anim Cogn 2023; 26:1021-1034. [PMID: 36759423 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-023-01750-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated that dogs synchronize their locomotor behaviour with that of their owners. The present study aims to improve our understanding of the sensorimotor processes underlying interspecific behavioural synchronization by testing the influence of the number of humans on dogs' behavioural synchronization. We used Global Positioning System (GPS) devices in an outdoor environment to measure dogs' behavioural synchronization to humans during a locomotor activity involving three speeds (static, slow walking and fast walking). For half of the dogs, only their owner was walking, while for the other half, the owner walked with two familiar people. We also tested the effect of dog breeds by involving 30 shepherd dogs and 30 molossoids. Our results showed that dogs exhibited the same level of behavioural synchronization with their owner if alone or if surrounded by two familiar people. Though the presence of a group of humans did not strengthen the dogs' locomotor synchronization, it did produce another effect: dogs gazed at their owners more frequently in the presence of a group compared to their owner alone. This result suggests the same level of locomotor social entrainment but a difference in social referencing depending on the number of humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angélique Lamontagne
- Laboratoire de Psychologie Cognitive (UMR 7290), Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, 3, Place Victor Hugo, Marseille Cedex 03, France.
| | - Thierry Legou
- Laboratoire Parole et Langage (UMR7309), Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, 5 Avenue Pasteur, 13100, Aix-en-Provence, France
| | - Birgit Rauchbauer
- Laboratoire Parole et Langage (UMR7309), Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, 5 Avenue Pasteur, 13100, Aix-en-Provence, France
- Laboratoire de Neuroscience Cognitives, (UMR 7291), Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, 3 Place Victor-Hugo, 13331, Marseille Cedex 3, France
| | - Marie-Hélène Grosbras
- Laboratoire de Neuroscience Cognitives, (UMR 7291), Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, 3 Place Victor-Hugo, 13331, Marseille Cedex 3, France
| | - Fannie Fabre
- Laboratoire de Psychologie Cognitive (UMR 7290), Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, 3, Place Victor Hugo, Marseille Cedex 03, France
| | - Florence Gaunet
- Laboratoire de Psychologie Cognitive (UMR 7290), Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, 3, Place Victor Hugo, Marseille Cedex 03, France
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23
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Prato-Previde E, Pedretti G, Terruzzi E, Valsecchi P. When the owner does not know: comparing puppies and adult dogs' showing behavior. Anim Cogn 2023; 26:985-996. [PMID: 36720747 PMCID: PMC10066169 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-023-01744-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Domestic dogs have been shown to engage in interspecific communication with their owners using a flexible repertoire of signals (i.e., gaze, vocalizations, and postures). This ability is influenced by ontogenetic development as well as breed selection. Different aspects of this phenomenon have been studied using the out of reach/hidden object task in which a piece of food is shown to the dog and then hidden in an unreachable spot by the experimenter. Dogs' behavioral displays toward the target and the owner (ignorant about the location of the food) have been observed. The complex communicative behavior dogs exhibit in this context is defined as showing behavior and includes attention-getting components directed toward the owner, and directional components directed toward the target. No study has investigated the ontogenetic development of this behavior. In the current study, we compared the showing behavior in 4-6 month old puppies and 2-11 year old adults in an out of reach task involving the hiding of a food reward in one of two cabinets. Dogs were exposed to three conditions: (1) Owner with Food (OF), (2) Owner No Food (ONF), and (3) Alone with food (AF). Dogs showed more gaze alternations when both the food and the owner were present confirming the intentional and referential nature of this behavior. Contrary to our expectations, we found no differences between the showing behaviors of 4-6 month old puppies and adult dogs. This study provides interesting preliminary evidence of showing behavior in puppies. Further studies are needed to gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing this communicative behavior (i.e., breed, level of training). Furthermore, longitudinal studies should be performed from the age of 2 months up to 1 and 2 years to better clarify the influence of development and experience on showing behavior in domestic dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulia Pedretti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Via Gramsci 14, 43126, Parma, Italy
- Department of Chemistry, Life Science and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Viale delle Scienze 11/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Elena Terruzzi
- Department of Animal and Human Biology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Paola Valsecchi
- Department of Chemistry, Life Science and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Viale delle Scienze 11/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
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24
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App that rewards owners for good dog care. Vet Rec 2023; 192:63. [PMID: 36661167 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.2653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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25
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Cheng WK, Leong WC, Tan JS, Hong ZW, Chen YL. Affective Recommender System for Pet Social Network. Sensors (Basel) 2022; 22:6759. [PMID: 36146109 PMCID: PMC9504351 DOI: 10.3390/s22186759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In this new era, it is no longer impossible to create a smart home environment around the household. Moreover, users are not limited to humans but also include pets such as dogs. Dogs need long-term close companionship with their owners; however, owners may occasionally need to be away from home for extended periods of time and can only monitor their dogs' behaviors through home security cameras. Some dogs are sensitive and may develop separation anxiety, which can lead to disruptive behavior. Therefore, a novel smart home solution with an affective recommendation module is proposed by developing: (1) an application to predict the behavior of dogs and, (2) a communication platform using smartphones to connect with dog friends from different households. To predict the dogs' behaviors, the dog emotion recognition and dog barking recognition methods are performed. The ResNet model and the sequential model are implemented to recognize dog emotions and dog barks. The weighted average is proposed to combine the prediction value of dog emotion and dog bark to improve the prediction output. Subsequently, the prediction output is forwarded to a recommendation module to respond to the dogs' conditions. On the other hand, the Real-Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP) server is implemented as a platform to contact a dog's friends on a list to interact with each other. Various tests were carried out and the proposed weighted average led to an improvement in the prediction accuracy. Additionally, the proposed communication platform using basic smartphones has successfully established the connection between dog friends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Khuen Cheng
- Faculty of Information and Communication Technology, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kampar 31900, Perak, Malaysia
| | - Wai Chun Leong
- Faculty of Information and Communication Technology, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kampar 31900, Perak, Malaysia
| | - Joi San Tan
- Faculty of Information and Communication Technology, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kampar 31900, Perak, Malaysia
| | - Zeng-Wei Hong
- Department of Information Engineering and Computer Science, Feng Chia University, Taichung 40724, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Lin Chen
- Department of Computer Science and Information Engineering, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 106344, Taiwan
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26
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Hupfeld J, Dölle M, Volk H, Rieder J. Effect of long-term management of hypoadrenocorticism on the quality of life of affected dogs and their owners. Vet Rec 2022; 191:e1977. [PMID: 35941756 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.1977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The treatment of canine adrenal insufficiency consists of hormone substitution and requires high owner compliance and intense human-dog interaction. This might affect the quality of life (QoL) of owners and their pets. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of hypoadrenocorticism and its treatment on the QoL of dogs and their owners. METHODS Owners completed a web-based survey that contained items concerning signalment, owner QoL, dog QoL and long-term therapy. RESULTS Three hundred and twenty-two owners participated. Most owners feared an adrenal crisis. Approximately half of the participants reported that the bond between them and their pet increased after diagnosis. Although many participants felt that their own QoL was not affected by their dog's disease, worries about costs and leaving their dog unsupervised were frequently reported. Half of the study participants increased their dog's glucocorticoid doses when a stressful situation was foreseeable ('boosting' of therapy). Some administered hydrocortisone, mostly switched from prednisolone, resulting in a reduction in side effects. CONCLUSIONS Special attention should be given to glucocorticoid therapy and owner's QoL. The overall worry of an adrenal crisis might increase caregivers' burden, reducing their overall QoL. Hydrocortisone might be a safe alternative to prednisolone, but further research is necessary to evaluate its long-term efficacy and safety in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Hupfeld
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Michael Dölle
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Holger Volk
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Johanna Rieder
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
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Mills G. Assessing the impact of Covid-19 on pets. Vet Rec 2022; 191:5. [PMID: 35802095 PMCID: PMC9349665 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.1983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Kwantes L. What about the bond? Can Vet J 2022; 63:469-470. [PMID: 35502251 PMCID: PMC9009738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
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Taylor N. 'We need a new approach to dangerous dogs'. Vet Rec 2022; 190:331. [PMID: 35420177 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.1716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Cimarelli G, Schindlbauer J, Pegger T, Wesian V, Virányi Z. Secure base effect in former shelter dogs and other family dogs: Strangers do not provide security in a problem-solving task. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0261790. [PMID: 34936692 PMCID: PMC8694447 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Domestic dogs display behavioural patterns towards their owners that fulfil the four criteria of attachment. As such, they use their owners as a secure base, exploring the environment and manipulating objects more when accompanied by their owners than when alone. Although there are some indications that owners serve as a better secure base than other human beings, the evidence regarding a strong owner-stranger differentiation in a manipulative context is not straightforward. In the present study, we conducted two experiments in which pet dogs were tested in an object-manipulation task in the presence of the owner and of a stranger, varying how the human partner would behave (i.e. remaining silent or encouraging the dog, Experiment 1), and when alone (Experiment 2). Further, to gain a better insight into the mechanisms behind a potential owner-stranger differentiation, we investigated the effect of dogs' previous life history (i.e. having lived in a shelter or having lived in the same household since puppyhood). Overall, we found that strangers do not provide a secure base effect and that former shelter dogs show a stronger owner-stranger differentiation than other family dogs. As former shelter dogs show more behavioural signs correlated with anxiety towards the novel environment and the stranger, we concluded that having been re-homed does not necessarily affect the likelihood of forming a secure bond with the new owner but might have an impact on how dogs interact with novel stimuli, including unfamiliar humans. These results confirm the owner's unique role in providing security to their dogs and have practical implications for the bond formation in pet dogs with a past in a shelter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Cimarelli
- Clever Dog Lab, Comparative Cognition, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of Vienna, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Domestication Lab, Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- * E-mail:
| | - Julia Schindlbauer
- Clever Dog Lab, Comparative Cognition, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of Vienna, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Teresa Pegger
- Clever Dog Lab, Comparative Cognition, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of Vienna, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Verena Wesian
- Clever Dog Lab, Comparative Cognition, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of Vienna, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Zsófia Virányi
- Clever Dog Lab, Comparative Cognition, Messerli Research Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of Vienna, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Corrêa GF, Barcelos AM, Mills DS. Dog-related activities and human well-being in Brazilian dog owners: A framework and cross-cultural comparison with a British study. Sci Prog 2021; 104:368504211050277. [PMID: 34844454 PMCID: PMC10306145 DOI: 10.1177/00368504211050277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Despite the abundance of studies investigating the benefits of having a dog, the specific aspects of dog ownership that impacts human well-being are not well understood. This study used a qualitative approach to create a framework of the main dog-related activities perceived by Brazilian owners to impact their well-being and compared the findings with those of a similar study in England. Thirty-two Brazilian dog owners from the five regions of the country were remotely interviewed. The thematic analysis of the transcripts generated a total of 58 dog-related activities, organised into 13 themes. Most activities were reported to have a positive effect on participants' well-being, accounting for 76.8% of the total number of mentions in the interviews. 'Playing with dog' and 'Dog presence' were the themes most frequently associated with positive well-being outcomes, whereas 'Unwanted behaviours' and 'Failing to meet dog's needs' were the most commonly associated with negative outcomes. The dog-related activities reported by Brazilian dog owners and the well-being outcomes linked to those activities were consistent with the previous British sample in the framework that emerged. These findings suggest reliability between the two methods used to gather data (remote interview versus focus group) and, most importantly, provide consistent cross-cultural evidence for how certain activities impact dog owner's well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin R Whitebird
- Morrison Family College of Health, School of Social Work, University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, Minnesota
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D’Aniello B, Scandurra A, Pinelli C, Marinelli L, Mongillo P. Is this love? Sex differences in dog-owner attachment behavior suggest similarities with adult human bonds. Anim Cogn 2021; 25:137-148. [PMID: 34355289 PMCID: PMC8904329 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-021-01545-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Sex differences in the behavioral responses of Labrador Retriever dogs in the Strange Situation Test were explored. Behaviors expressed by dogs during seven 3-min episodes were analyzed through a Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The scores of factors obtained were analyzed with a Generalized Linear Mixed Model to reveal the effects of the dog's sex and age and the owner's sex. In Episode 1 (dog and owner) and 5 (dog alone), the PCA identified three and two factors, respectively, which overall explained 68.7% and 59.8% of the variance, with no effect of sex. In Episodes 2 (dog, owner, and stranger), 3 and 6 (dog and stranger), and 4 and 7 (dog and owner), the PCA identified four factors, which overall explained 51.0% of the variance. Effects of sex were found on: Factor 1 (distress), with lower scores obtained by females in Episode 2 and higher in Episode 3; Factor 2 (sociability), which was overall higher in females; Factor 3 (separation-distress), with females, but not males, obtaining higher scores when left with the stranger than when with the owner. Therefore, females were overall more social but seemed more affected than males by the owner's absence. Parallels can be traced between our results and sex differences found in adult human romantic attachment, suggesting that the dog-owner bond has characteristics that are not found in the infant-mother relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biagio D’Aniello
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Scandurra
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia Pinelli
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Caserta, Italy
| | - Lieta Marinelli
- Laboratory of Applied Ethology, Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell’Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, PD Italy
| | - Paolo Mongillo
- Laboratory of Applied Ethology, Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell’Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, PD Italy
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Rathish D, Rajapakse RPVJ, Weerakoon KGAD. The role of cortisol in the association of canine-companionship with blood pressure, glucose, and lipids: a systematic review. High Blood Press Cardiovasc Prev 2021; 28:447-455. [PMID: 34351596 DOI: 10.1007/s40292-021-00469-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The dog is known as man's best friend and canine-companionship is associated with positive effects on cardiovascular health. AIM We aim to review the role of cortisol in the association of canine-companionship with human blood pressure, glucose and lipid profile. METHODS Electronic databases, and reference lists of the selected articles were searched for original articles in English which evaluate the role of cortisol in the association of canine-companionship with human blood pressure, glucose and lipid profile. Appropriate tools from the National Institute of Health were used for the quality assessment. RESULTS Of the 2108 articles included for screening, 6 studies fulfilled the selection criteria. The USA had produced the highest number of studies (50%, 3/6). Pre-post studies (83%, 5/6) were the predominant type, and the overall quality of the selected studies was acceptable. The majority of studies showed a significant reduction of cortisol with dog companionship or therapy (67%, 4/6) along with a significant reduction of heart rate (2/4), systolic blood pressure (1/4), mean arterial blood pressure (1/4), or total cholesterol level (1/4). The role of cortisol in the association of canine-companionship with human blood pressure, glucose and lipid profile was scarcely studied with no studies from lower-middle-income countries, where the disease burden is on the rise. CONCLUSION A significant reduction of few cardiovascular risk factors was found along with a significant reduction of cortisol in canine companionship in few studies. Future comparative or higher-level studies are essential on the association between canine companionship, cortisol and cardiovascular risk factors, especially in lower-middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Rathish
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka.
| | - R P V J Rajapakse
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - K G A D Weerakoon
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
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Mikkola S, Salonen M, Puurunen J, Hakanen E, Sulkama S, Araujo C, Lohi H. Aggressive behaviour is affected by demographic, environmental and behavioural factors in purebred dogs. Sci Rep 2021; 11:9433. [PMID: 33941802 PMCID: PMC8093277 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-88793-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aggressive behaviour is an unwanted and serious problem in pet dogs, negatively influencing canine welfare, management and public acceptance. We aimed to identify demographic and environmental factors associated with aggressive behaviour toward people in Finnish purebred pet dogs. We collected behavioural data from 13,715 dogs with an owner-completed online questionnaire. Here we used a dataset of 9270 dogs which included 1791 dogs with frequent aggressive behaviour toward people and 7479 dogs without aggressive behaviour toward people. We studied the effect of several explanatory variables on aggressive behaviour with multiple logistic regression. Several factors increased the probability of aggressive behaviour toward people: older age, being male, fearfulness, small body size, lack of conspecific company, and being the owner's first dog. The probability of aggressive behaviour also differed between breeds. These results replicate previous studies and suggest that improvements in the owner education and breeding practices could alleviate aggressive behaviour toward people while genetic studies could reveal associated hereditary factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salla Mikkola
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Milla Salonen
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jenni Puurunen
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Emma Hakanen
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sini Sulkama
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - César Araujo
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannes Lohi
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Ben-Sefer
- School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, 96822 USA
| | - Linda Shields
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia 4029
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia 4556
- Australian Institute for Holocaust and Genocide Studies, Australia
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Marx A, Lenkei R, Pérez Fraga P, Bakos V, Kubinyi E, Faragó T. Occurrences of non-linear phenomena and vocal harshness in dog whines as indicators of stress and ageing. Sci Rep 2021; 11:4468. [PMID: 33627739 PMCID: PMC7904949 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83614-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
During social interactions, acoustic parameters of tetrapods' vocalisations reflect the emotional state of the caller. Higher levels of spectral noise and the occurrence of irregularities (non-linear phenomena NLP) might be negative arousal indicators in alarm calls, although less is known about other distress vocalisations. Family dogs experience different levels of stress during separation from their owner and may vocalise extensively. Analysing their whines can provide evidence for the relationship between arousal and NLP. We recorded 167 family dogs' separation behaviour including vocalisations, assessed their stress level based on behaviour and tested how these, their individual features, and owner reported separation-related problems (SRP) relate to their whines' (N = 4086) spectral noise and NLP. Dogs with SRP produced NLP whines more likely. More active dogs and dogs that tried to escape produced noisier whines. Older dogs' whines were more harmonic than younger ones', but they also showed a higher NLP ratio. Our results show that vocal harshness and NLP are associated with arousal in contact calls, and thus might function as stress indicators. The higher occurrence of NLP in older dogs irrespective to separation stress suggests loss in precise neural control of the larynx, and hence can be a potential ageing indicator.
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Affiliation(s)
- András Marx
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Rita Lenkei
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Paula Pérez Fraga
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-ELTE 'Lendület' Neuroethology of Communication Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Viktória Bakos
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Enikő Kubinyi
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Faragó
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.
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Vieira de Castro AC, Araújo Â, Fonseca A, Olsson IAS. Improving dog training methods: Efficacy and efficiency of reward and mixed training methods. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247321. [PMID: 33606822 PMCID: PMC7895348 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Dogs play an important role in our society as companions and work partners, and proper training of these dogs is pivotal. For companion dogs, training helps preventing or managing dog behavioral problems—the most frequently cited reason for relinquishing and euthanasia, and it promotes successful dog-human relationships and thus maximizes benefits humans derive from bonding with dogs. For working dogs, training is crucial for them to successfully accomplish their jobs. Dog training methods range widely from those using predominantly aversive stimuli (aversive methods), to those combining aversive and rewarding stimuli (mixed methods) and those focusing on the use of rewards (reward methods). The use of aversive stimuli in training is highly controversial and several veterinary and animal protection organizations have recommended a ban on pinch collars, e-collars and other techniques that induce fear or pain in dogs, on the grounds that such methods compromise dog welfare. At the same time, training methods based on the use of rewards are claimed to be more humane and equally or more effective than aversive or mixed methods. This important discussion, however, has not always been based in solid scientific evidence. Although there is growing scientific evidence that training with aversive stimuli has a negative impact on dog welfare, the scientific literature on the efficacy and efficiency of the different methodologies is scarce and inconsistent. Hence, the goal of the current study is to investigate the efficacy and efficiency of different dog training methods. To that end, we will apply different dog training methods in a population of working dogs and evaluate the outcome after a period of training. The use of working dogs will allow for a rigorous experimental design and control, with randomization of treatments. Military (n = 10) and police (n = 20) dogs will be pseudo-randomly allocated to two groups. One group will be trained to perform a set of tasks (food refusal, interrupted recall, dumbbell retrieval and placing items in a basket) using reward methods and the other group will be trained for the same tasks using mixed methods. Later, the dogs will perform a standardized test where they will be required to perform the trained behaviors. The reliability of the behaviors and the time taken to learn them will be assessed in order to evaluate the efficacy and efficiency, respectively, of the different training methods. This study will be performed in collaboration with the Portuguese Army and with the Portuguese Public Security Police (PSP) and integrated with their dog training programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Catarina Vieira de Castro
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- i3S –Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- * E-mail:
| | | | - André Fonseca
- CINAMIL, The Military Academy Research Center of the Portuguese Army, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - I. Anna S. Olsson
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- i3S –Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Love, hope and charity: how low-cost veterinary clinics make a difference. Vet Rec 2020; 186:655. [PMID: 32587056 DOI: 10.1136/vr.m2561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
This month, an owner explains how a charitable clinic has been vital in supporting her and her dog, Piper.
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Delicano RA, Hammar U, Egenvall A, Westgarth C, Mubanga M, Byberg L, Fall T, Kennedy B. The shared risk of diabetes between dog and cat owners and their pets: register based cohort study. BMJ 2020; 371:m4337. [PMID: 33303475 PMCID: PMC7726310 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.m4337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether dog and cat owners and their pets share a risk of developing diabetes. DESIGN Cohort study. SETTING Register based longitudinal study, Sweden. PARTICIPANTS 208 980 owner-dog pairs and 123 566 owner-cat pairs identified during a baseline assessment period (1 January 2004 to 31 December 2006). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Type 2 diabetes events in dog and cat owners and diabetes events in their pets, including date of diagnosis during the follow-up period (1 January 2007 to 31 December 2012). Owners with type 2 diabetes were identified by combining information from the National Patient Register, the Cause of Death Register, and the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register. Information on diabetes in the pets was extracted from veterinary care insurance data. Multi-state models were used to assess the hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals and to adjust for possible shared risk factors, including personal and socioeconomic circumstances. RESULTS The incidence of type 2 diabetes during follow-up was 7.7 cases per 1000 person years at risk in dog owners and 7.9 cases per 1000 person years at risk in cat owners. The incidence of diabetes in the pets was 1.3 cases per 1000 dog years at risk and 2.2 cases per 1000 cat years at risk. The crude hazard ratio for type 2 diabetes in owners of a dog with diabetes compared with owners of a dog without diabetes was 1.38 (95% confidence interval 1.10 to 1.74), with a multivariable adjusted hazard ratio of 1.32 (1.04 to 1.68). Having an owner with type 2 diabetes was associated with an increased hazard of diabetes in the dog (crude hazard ratio 1.28, 1.01 to 1.63), which was attenuated after adjusting for owner's age, with the confidence interval crossing the null (1.11, 0.87 to 1.42). No association was found between type 2 diabetes in cat owners and diabetes in their cats (crude hazard ratio 0.99, 0.74 to 1.34, and 1.00, 0.78 to 1.28, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Data indicated that owners of a dog with diabetes were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes during follow-up than owners of a dog without diabetes. It is possible that dogs with diabetes could serve as a sentinel for shared diabetogenic health behaviours and environmental exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Ann Delicano
- Department of Medical Sciences, Molecular Epidemiology and Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ulf Hammar
- Department of Medical Sciences, Molecular Epidemiology and Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Agneta Egenvall
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Carri Westgarth
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Mwenya Mubanga
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Liisa Byberg
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Orthopaedics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Tove Fall
- Department of Medical Sciences, Molecular Epidemiology and Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Beatrice Kennedy
- Department of Medical Sciences, Molecular Epidemiology and Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
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Pérez Fraga P, Gerencsér L, Andics A. Human proximity seeking in family pigs and dogs. Sci Rep 2020; 10:20883. [PMID: 33257733 PMCID: PMC7705753 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77643-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Family dogs (Canis familiaris) seek human contact from an early age, can discriminate and prefer their caregivers over other humans. To investigate if being kept as a family animal is sufficient to induce similar early human proximity-seeking in another domestic mammal, here we directly compared such behaviours in dogs and similarly raised domestic pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus). We used a preference test to measure proximity-seeking behaviours of 4-month-old family pigs and dogs in the presence of their caregiver and either a stranger or a familiar object, in a novel environment. We found that both pigs and dogs preferred their caregivers over the familiar object but not over the stranger. However, when the caregiver and the stranger were present, only dogs showed an overall preference for human proximity, and pigs spent more time away from both humans. These results suggest that both dogs and pigs seek the proximity of their caregiver, but there is a difference in how each species generalizes their experience to other humans. Species-specific predispositions, including that dogs have a longer socialization period and that humans are more salient as a social stimulus for them, may be important for the early development of an overall preference for humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Pérez Fraga
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), Pázmány P. s. 1/C, 1117, Budapest, Hungary.
- MTA-ELTE 'Lendület' Neuroethology of Communication Research Group, Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Linda Gerencsér
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), Pázmány P. s. 1/C, 1117, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-ELTE 'Lendület' Neuroethology of Communication Research Group, Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), Budapest, Hungary
| | - Attila Andics
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), Pázmány P. s. 1/C, 1117, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-ELTE 'Lendület' Neuroethology of Communication Research Group, Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), Budapest, Hungary
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42
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Pergande AE, Belshaw Z, Volk HA, Packer RMA. "We have a ticking time bomb": a qualitative exploration of the impact of canine epilepsy on dog owners living in England. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:443. [PMID: 33187534 PMCID: PMC7666515 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02669-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic epilepsy is a common neurological condition in dogs. Previous research has focused on clinical aspects of seizure management in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy with little attention given to the emotional and logistical challenges for their owners. The current study aimed to explore the impacts of owning a dog with idiopathic epilepsy on owner quality of life and lifestyle, using qualitative methods. METHODS Owners of dogs with idiopathic epilepsy living in England were recruited via social media and word of mouth, and then selected using purposive sampling to participate in face-to-face semi-structured interviews. Epilepsy management was explored through in-depth accounts of owner experiences and influencing factors. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim and thematic analysis was used to construct key themes. RESULTS Twenty-one interviews were completed. Almost all owners had made lifestyle changes in order to care for their dog, including substantial modifications to routines and, in some cases, employment. Many owners discussed a very emotionally close dog-owner bond, and described experiencing frequent feelings of fear, stress and uncertainty regarding their dog's health. Friends, family and colleagues did not always understand the magnitude of commitment required to care for a dog with idiopathic epilepsy. This, combined with a fear of leaving their dog unsupervised, had social implications in some instances and lead to increased use of the Internet and online groups for peer support. CONCLUSIONS The commitment required to care for a dog with idiopathic epilepsy, and the lifestyle changes made by their owners, may be far greater than previously estimated. Further consideration of these factors by veterinary professionals and the friends and families of owners of dogs with idiopathic epilepsy could improve owner quality of life, and facilitate the provision of additional support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy E Pergande
- Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, UK.
| | - Zoe Belshaw
- PDSA Pet Hospital Nottingham, Dunkirk Road, Nottingham, NG7 2PH, UK
| | - Holger A Volk
- Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Rowena M A Packer
- Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, UK
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43
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Online support networks: the kindness of pet-loving strangers. Vet Rec 2020; 187:159. [PMID: 32826380 DOI: 10.1136/vr.m3300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
This month, David Anderson discusses the Facebook group he set up to provide support for pet owners.
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44
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Laitman JT, Albertine KH. A human's best friend comes to The Anatomical Record: A special issue explores the world of the dog. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2020; 304:7-9. [PMID: 33137845 DOI: 10.1002/ar.24539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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45
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Campderrich Estrada E, Herranz Martínez S. Missing Nuc in the time of COVID-19. Emergencias 2020; 32:431-432. [PMID: 33275366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Susana Herranz Martínez
- Servicio de Geriatría, Corporació Sanitària Parc Taulí de Sabadell, Universitari Parc Taulí, Sabadell, Barcelona, España
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46
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Abstract
Prison-based dog training programs (DTPs) aim to improve successful rehabilitation after detention. However, empirical evidence for their effectiveness is lacking. To evaluate the effectiveness of a DTP-Dutch Cell Dogs (DCD)-on externalizing behavior, stress, self-esteem, empathy, and treatment motivation, a pilot study with a Multiple Case Experimental Design in six adolescents residing in a juvenile justice center (JJC) was conducted. Results did not provide convincing evidence for DCD's effectiveness. Further research is needed to determine whether and for whom DCD could be a useful addition to regular JJC programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia E Offermans
- Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Hanne M Duindam
- Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jessica J Asscher
- Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Child and Adolescent Studies, Utrecht University
| | - Geert Jan JM Stams
- Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Hanneke E Creemers
- Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Ratschen E, Shoesmith E, Shahab L, Silva K, Kale D, Toner P, Reeve C, Mills DS. Human-animal relationships and interactions during the Covid-19 lockdown phase in the UK: Investigating links with mental health and loneliness. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0239397. [PMID: 32976500 PMCID: PMC7518616 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Covid-19 pandemic raises questions about the role that relationships and interactions between humans and animals play in the context of widespread social distancing and isolation measures. We aimed to investigate links between mental health and loneliness, companion animal ownership, the human-animal bond, and human-animal interactions; and to explore animal owners' perceptions related to the role of their animals during lockdown. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey of UK residents over 18 years of age was conducted between April and June 2020. The questionnaire included validated and bespoke items measuring demographics; exposures and outcomes related to mental health, wellbeing and loneliness; the human-animal bond and human-animal interactions. RESULTS Of 5,926 participants, 5,323 (89.8%) had at least one companion animal. Most perceived their animals to be a source of considerable support, but concerns were reported related to various practical aspects of providing care during lockdown. Strength of the human-animal bond did not differ significantly between species. Poorer mental health pre-lockdown was associated with a stronger reported human-animal bond (b = -.014, 95% CI [-.023 - -.005], p = .002). Animal ownership compared with non-ownership was associated with smaller decreases in mental health (b = .267, 95% CI [.079 - .455], p = .005) and smaller increases in loneliness (b = -.302, 95% CI [-.461 - -.144], p = .001) since lockdown. CONCLUSION The human-animal bond is a construct that may be linked to mental health vulnerability in animal owners. Strength of the human-animal bond in terms of emotional closeness or intimacy dimensions appears to be independent of animal species. Animal ownership seemed to mitigate some of the detrimental psychological effects of Covid-19 lockdown. Further targeted investigation of the role of human-animal relationships and interactions for human health, including testing of the social buffering hypothesis and the development of instruments suited for use across animal species, is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Ratschen
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Shoesmith
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Lion Shahab
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Karine Silva
- Department of Behavioural Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Dimitra Kale
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Toner
- School of Psychology, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine Reeve
- School of Psychology, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel S. Mills
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Eavesdropping is the acquisition of information by observing third-party interactions. Considering dogs' (Canis lupus familiaris) dependence on humans, it would be beneficial for them to eavesdrop on human interactions to choose an appropriate partner to associate with. Previous studies have found that dogs preferred a human who acted generously or cooperatively towards another human over one who acted selfishly or non-cooperatively, however they often did not control for potential location biases. This study controlled for local enhancement and investigated whether dogs derive and act on information about unfamiliar humans through reputation-like inferences by observing third-party interactions. 42 dogs participated in the experiment, which consisted of an observation phase and a test phase. In the observation phase, the animals observed a human with a box of food ask for help to open it from two people-one was helpful and the other was not. The test phase consisted of the impossible task and a choice test. Half of the sample was tested in the experimental condition and the other half was tested in the side control condition, where the two people swapped positions before the test phase. The results of the impossible task showed that dogs only looked at the helpful person first when the people stayed on the same side as they did in the observation phase. In the choice test, dogs chose at random, regardless of whether the people stayed on the same side or swapped positions. Our findings provide tentative support for a local enhancement interpretation of eavesdropping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoi-Lam Jim
- Wolf Science Center, Domestication Lab, Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- * E-mail: (HLJ); (FR)
| | - Sarah Marshall-Pescini
- Wolf Science Center, Domestication Lab, Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Friederike Range
- Wolf Science Center, Domestication Lab, Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- * E-mail: (HLJ); (FR)
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Hakanen E, Mikkola S, Salonen M, Puurunen J, Sulkama S, Araujo C, Lohi H. Active and social life is associated with lower non-social fearfulness in pet dogs. Sci Rep 2020; 10:13774. [PMID: 32792641 PMCID: PMC7426946 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70722-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Behavioural problems are leading welfare issues in domestic dogs. In particular, anxiety-related behavioural problems, such as fearfulness and noise sensitivity are highly prevalent conditions that cause distress to fearful dogs. To better understand the environmental factors associated with non-social fear, including noise sensitivity, fear of novel situations, and fear of surfaces and heights, a large online survey including data on 13,700 Finnish pet dogs was performed by the dog owners. After fulfilling inclusion criteria, this data consisted of 9,613 dogs with fear of fireworks, 9,513 dogs with fear of thunder, 6,945 dogs with fear of novel situations, and 2,932 dogs with fear of surfaces and heights. Logistic regression analyses revealed that dogs with frequent non-social fear had experienced less socialisation during puppyhood, were more often neutered, had inexperienced owners, lived without conspecifics, participated less frequently in activities or training, and lived in more urban environments. In addition, we identified several breed differences, and a tendency of more common non-social fear in small dog breeds, which suggests a genetic background. Non-social fearfulness has a negative effect on well-being of the dogs. Our findings suggest that the socialisation and the living environment and the value of other dogs' company and owner interaction via activities and training may improve the well-being of the dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Hakanen
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Salla Mikkola
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Milla Salonen
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jenni Puurunen
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sini Sulkama
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - César Araujo
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannes Lohi
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland.
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50
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Abstract
In an effort to manage the uncertainty brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have turned to their social support networks. With limited access to in-person human social networks, many people are turning to pets for social support. Pets may be a complementary social support to supplement virtual human-to-human interaction. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne O Nieforth
- Center for the Human Animal Bond, Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University
| | - Marguerite E O'Haire
- Center for the Human Animal Bond, Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University
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