Animals

Research

21 pages, 3856 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Influencing Isolation Behavior of Dogs: A Holder-Based Questionnaire and Behavioral and Saliva Cortisol Responses during Separation

by Jennifer Silbermann and Udo Gansloßer

Animals 2023, 13(23), 3735; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13233735 - 2 Dec 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1458

Abstract

This study examined how separation behavior differs between dogs with and without separation-related problem behavior (SRB) and the possible risk factors. The study consisted of an online survey with 940 dog holders, which, in addition to demographic facts, also includes personality, emotional disposition [...] Read more.

This study examined how separation behavior differs between dogs with and without separation-related problem behavior (SRB) and the possible risk factors. The study consisted of an online survey with 940 dog holders, which, in addition to demographic facts, also includes personality, emotional disposition and the attachment by the holder. Furthermore, a separation test was carried out with six non-SRB dogs over a maximum of 6 h, in which behavior and cortisol were determined. The questionnaire revealed that SRB dogs differed significantly from non-SRB dogs regarding the following factors: symptoms with at least a medium effect size such as restlessness, excitement, whining, howling, lip licking, barking and salivation, time to relax after separation, pessimism, persistence, excitability, calmness, separation frequency, greeting of holder and type of greeting. There were several other differences, but with weak effect sizes. The test showed that non-SRB dogs were mostly inactive during separation (lying resting and lying alert). Vocalization was almost non-existent. Behavior and cortisol did not change significantly over the different time periods. The data demonstrated typical symptoms and possible risk factors, some of which may be avoided or changed to improve animal welfare. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Human–Pet Relationship)

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13 pages, 756 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Owner’s Anthropomorphic Perceptions of Cats’ and Dogs’ Abilities Are Related to the Social Role of Pets, Owners’ Relationship Behaviors, and Social Support

by Esther M. C. Bouma, Arie Dijkstra and Stella Arnt Rosa

Animals 2023, 13(23), 3644; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13233644 - 24 Nov 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2604

Abstract

Background: For sustainable and healthy relationships with pets, attributing some degree of human abilities to the pet (anthropomorphization) might be necessary. We hypothesize that the tendency to anthropomorphize pet animals is related to relationship behaviors (communication and making up) and the experience of [...] Read more.

Background: For sustainable and healthy relationships with pets, attributing some degree of human abilities to the pet (anthropomorphization) might be necessary. We hypothesize that the tendency to anthropomorphize pet animals is related to relationship behaviors (communication and making up) and the experience of social support. Perceiving the pet in a human social role (e.g., family member or friend) might mediate this relationship. Method: Associations were tested in a mixed sample of cat and dog owners by means of multiple linear regression, moderation, and (moderated) mediation analyses. The differences between cat and dog owners were examined with pet type as the moderator in a moderated mediation analysis. Results: Dog owners anthropomorphize their pets more than cat owners. The social role of the pet mediates the association between anthropomorphization and relationship behavior and social support. The mediation effects were stronger for cat owners than for dog owners. Moreover, our newly developed comparative anthropomorphism measure was a better predictor than the commonly used general anthropomorphism measure (IDAQ). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Human–Pet Relationship)

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10 pages, 241 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Insights into Canadians’ Perceptions of Service Dogs in Public Spaces

by Maryellen Gibson, Linzi Williamson and Colleen Anne Dell

Animals 2023, 13(19), 3091; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13193091 - 3 Oct 2023

Viewed by 2006

Abstract

Service Dogs (SDs) are an increasingly common type of working dog supporting people with disabilities in Canada. One of the groups being paired with SDs is Veterans diagnosed with posttraumatic stress injuries (PTSIs). In past research, Veterans have expressed stress over negative interactions [...] Read more.

Service Dogs (SDs) are an increasingly common type of working dog supporting people with disabilities in Canada. One of the groups being paired with SDs is Veterans diagnosed with posttraumatic stress injuries (PTSIs). In past research, Veterans have expressed stress over negative interactions with people in public spaces because an SD brings attention to their disability. There is a dearth of research exploring perceptions of SDs in public settings. Methods: A total of 485 Canadians were surveyed via an online questionnaire about their demographic information and beliefs about SDs in public spaces. Data were analyzed using robust ordinary least squares (OLS) regression to determine which demographic features, if any, contribute to perceptions. Results: Generally, the Canadian public holds highly positive perceptions of SDs being in public spaces. Our analysis found that women, people who currently have pets, and Indigenous people were more supportive of SDs in public spaces than others. People with certain cultural heritages were less receptive. Conclusion: These findings are an important beginning contribution to the growing SD and Veteran health field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Human–Pet Relationship)

22 pages, 6579 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Cat Behaviour Issues Assessment Scale (CABIAS) Assessing Problem Behaviours in Cats

by Kevin McPeake, Andrew Sparkes, Charlotte Billy, Sarah Endersby, Jean François Collin and Xavier De Jaeger

Animals 2023, 13(18), 2992; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13182992 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3674

Abstract

Problem behaviours in cats, such as urine marking, scratching, fear, and problems of cohabitation between cats, can present a potential welfare problem for those affected cats and have a negative impact on the human–animal bond. The aim of this study was to develop [...] Read more.

Problem behaviours in cats, such as urine marking, scratching, fear, and problems of cohabitation between cats, can present a potential welfare problem for those affected cats and have a negative impact on the human–animal bond. The aim of this study was to develop a Cat Behaviour Issues Assessment Scale (CABIAS) for caregivers to assess these common problem behaviours in cats, and to investigate aspects of the validity and reliability of the CABIAS. The CABIAS uses an index score as a scoring system combining aspects of the frequency and intensity of the problem behaviour. An electronic survey was developed, and 384 households, each with two participants able to observe the cat’s behaviour, were recruited for the study. The participants were asked to record their cat’s behaviour independently at weekly intervals over a 6-week period. A FELIWAY Optimum diffuser (containing a commercial feline pheromone complex) was provided to half of the participants, to be used during part of the study. The participants were subdivided into four groups according to whether a problem behaviour was present (or not) and whether the pheromone diffuser was provided (or not). The results demonstrated that the index scores for each problem behaviour had very high inter-rater reliability. There was a high correlation between the index scores and the impact the problem behaviours had on the caregivers. In those cats with a declared problem behaviour where the product was used, a reduction in index scores was observed over the duration of the study. The CABIAS was shown to exhibit satisfactory validity, reliability, and sensitivity to change in the current study, suggesting that it may be valuable as a tool for assessing and monitoring scratching, inter-cat cohabitation, urine marking, and fear in cats. The CABIAS could be used by veterinarians and behaviourists to assess these problem behaviours in individual cats and monitor responses to treatment. The CABIAS could also be considered as a research tool to assess the efficacy of interventions aimed at improving these problems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Human–Pet Relationship)

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9 pages, 935 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Description of Twenty-Nine Animal Hoarding Cases in Italy: The Impact on Animal Welfare

by Luigi Sacchettino, Claudia Gatta, Viviana Orsola Giuliano, Francesca Bellini, Alessia Liverini, Francesca Ciani, Luigi Avallone, Danila d’Angelo and Francesco Napolitano

Animals 2023, 13(18), 2968; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13182968 - 20 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1310

Abstract

The hoarding of animals is a psychiatric disease, characterized by a compulsive collection of animals, with a relevant impact upon the care and welfare of animals, as well as on human society. In Italy, there are neither substantial reports nor information shared about [...] Read more.

The hoarding of animals is a psychiatric disease, characterized by a compulsive collection of animals, with a relevant impact upon the care and welfare of animals, as well as on human society. In Italy, there are neither substantial reports nor information shared about such a phenomenon, making it difficult to draw a clear picture of the hoarder profile. Therefore, in the present work, we sought to detail 29 cases of animal accumulators in Italy, who lived within two areas of the Lazio region, and accumulated a total of 1080 animals from 2019 to 2022. In line with other international studies, we observed a prevalence of middle-aged (in their fifties) women, who lived mainly alone in a high level of social and health degradation. Most of the hoarded animals exhibited severe signs of dehydration and malnutrition, muscle hypotrophy, dermatological injuries, and behavioral disorders. Animal hoarding is not yet fully understood nor recognized as a psychosocial disorder, although it produces a deep suffering for the hoarder themselves, as well as corresponding family members, and the animals accumulated. Therefore, given the crucial impact of animal hoarding upon human and animal welfare, cross-cultural networks aimed at properly raising awareness of the problem could be established. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Human–Pet Relationship)

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17 pages, 428 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cultivating the Acceptance of Assistance Dogs in Aged Care through Deliberative Democracy

by Amanda J. Salmon and Nancy A. Pachana

Animals 2023, 13(16), 2680; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13162680 - 20 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1268

Abstract

Assistance dogs provide significant benefits to older adult owners. However, despite protective legislation, aged care facilities continue to not allow owners to retain their dogs on relocation. The purpose of the current study was to explore whether older adults should be allowed to [...] Read more.

Assistance dogs provide significant benefits to older adult owners. However, despite protective legislation, aged care facilities continue to not allow owners to retain their dogs on relocation. The purpose of the current study was to explore whether older adults should be allowed to retain their dog on relocation to an aged care facility, and what factors should impact this decision. Further, if allowed to retain their dog, what would be the best practice to allow for this? A deliberative democracy methodology was used, with a range of key stakeholders recruited. Focus groups were held, with follow-up questionnaires to establish deliberation for all questions. Results indicated that with sufficient objective measurement, fair decisions can be made to ensure the welfare and well-being of the owner and dog. Key policy and procedure changes would also be necessary to ensure ongoing support, such as training, care plans, and emergency directives. By ensuring sufficient policies and procedures are in place, training and support could lead to an ideal outcome where facilities could be at the forefront of a better future for aged care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Human–Pet Relationship)

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15 pages, 301 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Animal Research in Spain: A Study of Public Perception and Attitudes

by Andrea Miguel-Batuecas, Manuel Fuertes-Recuero, David Díaz-Regañón, Gustavo Ortiz-Díez, Luis Revuelta and Juan A. De Pablo-Moreno

Animals 2023, 13(12), 2039; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13122039 - 20 Jun 2023

Viewed by 2160

Abstract

Since the time of Hippocrates in the 4th century BC, animal research has been extensively used for various purposes up to the present day. However, the use of animals for research has also been controversial for a long time. We report the findings [...] Read more.

Since the time of Hippocrates in the 4th century BC, animal research has been extensively used for various purposes up to the present day. However, the use of animals for research has also been controversial for a long time. We report the findings of a public, online questionnaire-based survey designed to assess the opinions of a sample of Spanish society regarding animal research. Demographic data and opinions were obtained from 806 respondents. The results indicated a high level of acceptance of animal research (73.1%). However, certain factors, such as completing the questionnaire immediately after a reading negative media report (OR = 2.41; 95%CI: 1.64–3.54; p < 0.001), being a woman (OR = 1.77; 95%CI: 1.24–2.53; p = 0.002) or having a non-scientific background (OR = 2.47; 95%CI: 1.76–3.47; p < 0.001), were associated with a tendency towards a more negative opinion. The opinions seemed to be influenced by gender, education level and by protest incidents reported in the media. Our results also indicate that a lot of information regarding animal welfare, such as care and handling protocols, along with legislation was unknown to individuals. Further, a growing popularity of companion species and opposition to animal experimentation for non-biomedical purposes were reflected in the responses obtained. The use of animals for research purposes emerged as a sensitive social issue in terms of concerns about animal ethics and welfare. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Human–Pet Relationship)

22 pages, 1971 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Would You Detour with Me? Association between Functional Breed Selection and Social Learning in Dogs Sheds Light on Elements of Dog–Human Cooperation

by Petra Dobos and Péter Pongrácz

Animals 2023, 13(12), 2001; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13122001 - 15 Jun 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6081

Abstract

Interspecific social learning is a main synchronizing mechanism that enables dogs to adapt to the anthropogenic niche. It is not known whether dogs in general possess the capacity of learning from humans or whether more recent selective events have affected their ability to [...] Read more.

Interspecific social learning is a main synchronizing mechanism that enables dogs to adapt to the anthropogenic niche. It is not known whether dogs in general possess the capacity of learning from humans or whether more recent selective events have affected their ability to learn from humans. We hypothesized that cooperative and independent working dog breeds may behave differently in a social learning task. Dogs (N = 78 from 16 cooperative and 18 independent breeds) had to detour a transparent, V-shaped wire mesh fence. The experiment consisted of three one-minute-long trials. The control condition did not include a demonstration. In the demonstration condition, the experimenter placed a reward in the inside corner by walking around the fence. Cooperative dogs reached the target significantly faster, while independent dogs did not detour faster in trials 2 and 3 after the human demonstration. Detour latencies were not associated with the keeping conditions and training level of the subjects. As we assembled both test groups from several genetically distantly related breeds, we can exclude the explanation that higher cooperativity emerged only in particular clades of dogs; instead, functional selection for particular working tasks could enhance capacities that affect a wide range of socio-cognitive traits in dogs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Human–Pet Relationship)

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24 pages, 2178 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“It’s Like Living with a Sassy Teenager!”: A Mixed-Methods Analysis of Owners’ Comments about Dogs between the Ages of 12 Weeks and 2 Years

by Sara C. Owczarczak-Garstecka, Rosa E. P. Da Costa, Naomi D. Harvey, Kassandra Giragosian, Rachel H. Kinsman, Rachel A. Casey, Séverine Tasker and Jane K. Murray

Animals 2023, 13(11), 1863; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13111863 - 3 Jun 2023

Viewed by 3310

Abstract

Owners’ understanding of dog behaviour influences dog welfare. This study aimed to investigate owners’ experiences of living with dogs and perceptions of dog behaviour/behaviour change. Data from an ongoing UK/ROI longitudinal study of dogs were used. Open-ended survey data (n = 3577 [...] Read more.

Owners’ understanding of dog behaviour influences dog welfare. This study aimed to investigate owners’ experiences of living with dogs and perceptions of dog behaviour/behaviour change. Data from an ongoing UK/ROI longitudinal study of dogs were used. Open-ended survey data (n = 3577 comments, n = 1808 dogs) when dogs were 12/16 weeks (data combined), 6, 12, 18 and 24 months were analysed to cover the dog’s puppyhood/adolescence. To evaluate the usefulness of open-ended survey questions, both quantitative textual and qualitative thematic analyses were employed. Textual analysis identified an overall positive sentiment at all timepoints; the proportion of positive: negative sentiments increased with the dog’s age. Words related to ‘love’ were the most frequent descriptors at all but the first timepoint, when ‘bite’ was the most frequent descriptor. Qualitative analysis helped to identify that owners attribute dog behaviour to ‘Dog’s biology’, ‘Personality/deliberate action’ and ‘External influences’. Analysis of open-ended survey responses helped to identify changes in perception over time. When dogs were young, owners described problematic behaviours as ‘mischievous’, unintentional and context-specific. Similar behaviours shown by older dogs were seen as ‘deliberate’. Both positive and negative experiences of dog ownership were identified. However, as not all respondents answered open-ended questions, the generalisability of our findings is limited. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Human–Pet Relationship)

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16 pages, 428 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Not All Puppies and Sunshine: How Dog Keepers Cope with Dog-Related Problems in Dutch Society

by Susan Ophorst, Noelle Aarts, Bernice Bovenkerk and Hans Hopster

Animals 2023, 13(6), 1038; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13061038 - 13 Mar 2023

Viewed by 2444

Abstract

Zoonoses, biting incidents, hereditary problems, and other issues can threaten the welfare of both humans and dogs. The Dutch government and animal welfare organizations seem to have little effect in their campaigns to influence the behavior of (potential) dog keepers, who can experience [...] Read more.

Zoonoses, biting incidents, hereditary problems, and other issues can threaten the welfare of both humans and dogs. The Dutch government and animal welfare organizations seem to have little effect in their campaigns to influence the behavior of (potential) dog keepers, who can experience dissonance when faced with these campaigns and use coping strategies to relieve the dissonance instead of changing their behavior. In this study, in focus group discussions, dog keepers with pedigree dogs, high-risk dogs, foreign shelter dogs, and dogs purchased at puppy farms shared their experiences with opinions on dogs and were confronted with negative opinions on their dogs. The data were analyzed using a coping strategies framework. Most coping strategies were found in all groups, but were used in response to different dilemmas, with different manifestations. These differences should be kept in mind when behavior change in dog keepers is opportune. Special attention should be given to differentiating target groups, as use of the detachment coping strategy suggests that boundaries might be set differently than expected. Broad attention on problems with and for dogs can address perceived dissonance and prompt behavior change. In dialogue with dog keepers, in influential campaigns and in policy formulation, the chances of success are greater if initiators are aware of the strategies that they may encounter. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Human–Pet Relationship)

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17 pages, 991 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Human–Animal Bonds for People Experiencing Crisis Situations

by Karl Oosthuizen, Bianca Haase, Jioji Ravulo, Sabrina Lomax and Gemma Ma

Animals 2023, 13(5), 941; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13050941 - 5 Mar 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5685

Abstract

Human–animal bonds, by providing social support, have been shown to improve the health and wellbeing of pet owners, especially those experiencing a crisis situation. The human–animal bond for people in crisis situations is complex and multifaceted, as it has shown to improve health, [...] Read more.

Human–animal bonds, by providing social support, have been shown to improve the health and wellbeing of pet owners, especially those experiencing a crisis situation. The human–animal bond for people in crisis situations is complex and multifaceted, as it has shown to improve health, whilst it can also discourage people from seeking help, due to fears of leaving their pet behind. The purpose of the study is to capture and to assess the role of the human–animal bond for people in crisis situations. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with pet owners involved in the RSPCA NSW Community Programs (n = 13) in 2021 and 2022. The findings of the study indicate that the human–animal bond is highly valued by people experiencing crisis situations, that the human–animal bonds can affect people’s ability to seek help or refuge, and that the human–animal bond helps people to recover after a crisis. The findings suggest that community crisis support services, prison systems, hospital systems, emergency housing, and government legislation should recognize and aim to preserve this bond to provide the best help for people experiencing crisis situations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Human–Pet Relationship)

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

22 pages, 344 KiB

Open AccessReview

An Assessment of Scientific Evidence Relating to the Effect of Early Experience on the Risk of Human-Directed Aggression by Adult Dogs

by Ann Baslington-Davies, Helen Howell, Todd E. Hogue and Daniel S. Mills

Animals 2023, 13(14), 2329; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13142329 - 17 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4625

Abstract

Human-directed aggression by domestic dogs is a major worldwide public health problem. The causes of aggression are complex, and research in this area often has to balance ecological validity with pragmatic controls; accordingly, it often does not meet the thresholds for quality typically [...] Read more.

Human-directed aggression by domestic dogs is a major worldwide public health problem. The causes of aggression are complex, and research in this area often has to balance ecological validity with pragmatic controls; accordingly, it often does not meet the thresholds for quality typically used in reviews applying a classical “evidence-based” approach. Here, we propose a method of literature assessment that makes the “best use” of available evidence to identify and synthesise evidence relating to the most likely risk factors reported in the scientific literature. We used a systematic review process to initially identify relevant literature relating to potential early life experience (i.e., in the first six months of life) risk factors in the dog for human-directed aggression in the adult animal. Fourteen papers met our initial screening process and were subsequently analysed in detail, with data extracted and effect sizes calculated where possible. This highlighted the potential importance of the source of the animal, the age at which it was rehomed, the reason for the acquisition, the experience level of the owner, the animal’s socialisation experiences, the consistent husbandry and management practices, the training, the sex ratio of the litter and the history of dogs that display aggression in the pedigree as risk factors. Taken together, it seems that early experiences which limit the ability to develop effective coping strategies and routines may be particularly important. We provide guidance for the future standardised reporting of risk related to human-directed aggression by dogs to allow greater synthesis of the literature in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Human–Pet Relationship)

18 pages, 3963 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Impact of the Social Determinants of Human Health on Companion Animal Welfare

by Sonya McDowall, Susan J. Hazel, Catherine Chittleborough, Anne Hamilton-Bruce, Rwth Stuckey and Tiffani J. Howell

Animals 2023, 13(6), 1113; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13061113 - 21 Mar 2023

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 7279

Abstract

The social determinants of health (SDH) focus on the social, physical and economic factors that impact human health. Studies have revealed that animal guardians face a range of challenges in attaining positive welfare outcomes for their companion animals, which can be influenced by [...] Read more.

The social determinants of health (SDH) focus on the social, physical and economic factors that impact human health. Studies have revealed that animal guardians face a range of challenges in attaining positive welfare outcomes for their companion animals, which can be influenced by socioeconomic and environmental factors. Despite this, there is a lack of research specifically exploring the relationship between SDH and animal welfare outcomes. Given that the SDH impact on humans, which in turn directly impacts on their companion animal, it is important to adapt an SDH framework for companion animal welfare by characterising the impact of the SDH on companion animal guardians in their attempts to care for their animals and, by extension, the associated welfare outcomes. This paper explores how these human health determinants may impact animal welfare and the possible challenges that may arise for the guardian when attempting to meet their companion animal’s welfare needs. By integrating the SDH with other key frameworks, including the five domains model of animal welfare, through multidisciplinary collaboration, this framework can be used to inform future programs aiming to improve animal welfare. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Human–Pet Relationship)

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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

7 pages, 1767 KiB

Open AccessCommentary

Dog Training, Keeping and Selection around 1300, Using the Example of Albertus Magnus and Petrus de Crescentiis

by Heike Krause, Udo Ganslosser and Nina Marie Hohlfeld

Animals 2023, 13(23), 3698; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13233698 - 29 Nov 2023

Viewed by 1310

Abstract

Historical dog training methods reveal that dog training then and now might not have been that different. While some methods that would be considered unacceptable today have vanished over time, much of what we do today has been practiced historically for a long [...] Read more.

Historical dog training methods reveal that dog training then and now might not have been that different. While some methods that would be considered unacceptable today have vanished over time, much of what we do today has been practiced historically for a long time. Albertus Magnus’ De animalibus and Petrus de Crescentiis’ Ruralia commodia deliver us historical evidence on how dogs were perceived, kept and trained by our ancestors. Not only were they already kept as pets, but they were also used in a wide range of professions. Dogs were utilized as guard and watchdogs, for hunting and for herding and livestock protection. Dogs are still trained in many of those professions today. From these historical records, we can learn how the perception and use of dogs has been similar or very different from our view on dogs today. We see how certain training methods have persisted over time, giving us an opportunity to ponder on new training and handling methods for man’s best friend. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Human–Pet Relationship)

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21 pages, 522 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Can Interacting with Animals Improve Executive Functions? A Systematic Review

by Deanna Tepper, Joanna Shnookal, Tiffani Howell and Pauleen Bennett

Animals 2023, 13(13), 2080; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13132080 - 23 Jun 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2034

Abstract

There has been growing interest in the potential benefits of using human–animal interactions to improve executive functions: cognitive processes that allow individuals to plan, solve problems, and self-regulate behaviour. To date, no comprehensive review has been conducted. The purpose of this study was [...] Read more.

There has been growing interest in the potential benefits of using human–animal interactions to improve executive functions: cognitive processes that allow individuals to plan, solve problems, and self-regulate behaviour. To date, no comprehensive review has been conducted. The purpose of this study was to evaluate existing literature, adopting broad inclusion criteria. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, 16 papers were identified from peer-reviewed literature. Additional papers were identified from grey literature, including 6 dissertations and 1 thesis. A review of these 23 studies found that human–animal interactions and executive functions are investigated in three main ways: (1) exploring the potential benefits of the human–pet relationship, (2) exploring the impact of an animal’s presence during administration of executive function tests, and (3) evaluating the efficacy of animal-assisted services (e.g., animal-assisted therapy) on executive functions. Five of the included studies reported a significant improvement across all measured domains of executive functions, but effect sizes were underreported. Comparatively, 9 studies reported mixed findings, d = 0.32–0.55, while 8 studies reported no significant results. The overall rigour of the research was limited, with great heterogeneity between the study methodologies and outcome measures used. It is recommended that future studies utilise high-quality research methodologies through the use of randomisation, pre- and postmeasures, and appropriate control conditions, where possible. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Human–Pet Relationship)

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15 pages, 1381 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Investigating Dog Welfare When Interacting with Autistic Children within Canine-Assisted Occupational Therapy Sessions: A Single Case Study

by Jessica Hill, Carlie Driscoll, Judy Cawdell-Smith, Stephen Anderson and Jenny Ziviani

Animals 2023, 13(12), 1965; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13121965 - 12 Jun 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3250

Abstract

Human-animal bond is defined as the mutually beneficial relationship between humans and animals. Recent years have seen increasing research regarding the benefits of interaction with animals for autistic children. However, there continue to be limited studies exploring the impact of this interaction on [...] Read more.

Human-animal bond is defined as the mutually beneficial relationship between humans and animals. Recent years have seen increasing research regarding the benefits of interaction with animals for autistic children. However, there continue to be limited studies exploring the impact of this interaction on the welfare of therapy dogs. As part of a pilot randomised control trial assessing the efficacy of canine-assisted occupational therapy with autistic children, this project assessed welfare markers of the therapy dog involved. A total of twenty-one saliva samples were taken from the therapy dog to assess cortisol, alpha amylase, and oxytocin concentrations at home and throughout the treatment days. Additionally, six hours of therapy session videos were analysed for stress indicators of canine behaviour. No significant differences were found between days spent at home and treatment days for any of the biomarkers or stress indicators. Results suggest that the therapy dog involved did not experience increased stress resulting from interaction with the autistic children throughout the therapy sessions. This study supports the need for further research regarding therapy dog welfare when interacting with autistic children including an increased sample size of therapy dogs and therapists. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Human–Pet Relationship)

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