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Johansson G, Johansson J, Engström Å, Juuso P. Stakeholders' perceptions of value of nature-based interventions in promoting health in people with stress-related illness: a qualitative study. Int J Circumpolar Health 2024; 83:2349330. [PMID: 38726478 PMCID: PMC11089910 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2024.2349330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Stress-related illness is a common and increasing cause for sick leave in Sweden. Spending time in nature reduces stress and promotes health and well-being. Accordingly, nature-based interventions (NBI) for people with stress-related illness have been developed and implemented in southern Scandinavia; however, such interventions are uncommon in the Circumpolar North. Previous studies have examined the effects and experiences of participating in NBI, but research about different stakeholders' perspectives on NBI is lacking. The aim of this study was to explore different key stakeholders' perceptions of the value of NBI in promoting health in people with stress-related illness. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 11 persons with stress-related illness experience, 14 healthcare professionals, and 11 entrepreneurs offering NBI. Qualitative content analysis resulted in four categories: Providing opportunity for recovery, Offering new perspectives and opportunity for reflection, Empowering balance and control in life, and Enabling one to overcome barriers. Although the study was conducted in a region where NBI is not widely implemented, the different stakeholders expressed similar perceptions of the value of NBI, indicating that NBI may be a valuable complement to health care which reaches people with stress-related illness needs and promotes their health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunilla Johansson
- Division of Nursing and Medical Technology, Department of Health, Education and Technology, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden
| | - Jeaneth Johansson
- Division of Business Administration and Industrial Engineering, Department of Social Science, Technology and Arts, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden
- School of Business, Innovation and Sustainability, Halmstad University, Halmstad, Sweden
| | - Åsa Engström
- Division of Nursing and Medical Technology, Department of Health, Education and Technology, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden
| | - Päivi Juuso
- Division of Nursing and Medical Technology, Department of Health, Education and Technology, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden
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Sun Y, Xing J, Xu S, Li Y, Zhong J, Gao H, Cheng S, Dong J, Zhang T, Lu G, Baele G, Zhang G. Demographic and zoological drivers of infectome diversity in companion cats with ascites. mSystems 2024:e0063624. [PMID: 39120143 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00636-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Cats (Felidae) have become an integral part of many households. However, our understanding of the full spectrum of pathogens affecting cats (referred to as the infectome) is limited, mainly due to the inadequacy of commonly used diagnostic tools in capturing the complete diversity of potential pathogens and the prevalence of pathogen co-infections. In this study, we employed a meta-transcriptomic approach to simultaneously characterize the infectome contributing to different disease syndromes and to investigate spatial, demographic, and ecological factors influencing pathogen diversity and community composition in a cohort of 27 hospitalized cats and seven stray cats. We identified 15 species of pathogens, with Candidatus Rickettsia tarasevichiae and Tritrichomonas foetus representing potential spillover risks. Importantly, although most cases of ascites hyperplasia were explained by coinfection with multiple pathogens, we identified the potential novel clinical outcomes of M. aubagnense infection among cats. We demonstrated that the increase in infectome diversity can be explained by a variety of predictors including age growth, temperature increase, and a higher proportion of females, with age growth presenting the strongest effect. Fine-scale analysis indicated that a higher diversity of infectomes were harbored in young cats rather than adult ones. Our results demonstrated that most feline diseases are better explained by the presence of virus-bacteria or virus-virus coinfection. This study serves as a timely endorsement for clinical diagnosis by vets to consider the cause of a disease based on a panel of cryptical co-infecting pathogens rather than on individual infectious agents. IMPORTANCE Frequent studies reported the risks of cats as an intermediate host of zoonotic pathogens (e.g., SARS-CoV-2). Cats have a physically close interaction with their owners through activities like petting, kissing, and being licked on the cheek and hands. However, there are still limited studies that systematically investigate the infectome structure of cats. In this study, we employed a meta-transcriptomics approach to characterize 15 species of pathogens in cats, with Candidatus Rickettsia tarasevichiae first characterizing infection in diseased cats. Most feline diseases were better explained by the presence of virus-bacteria or virus-virus coinfection. The increase in infectome diversity could be influenced by a variety of predictors including age growth, temperature increase, and a higher proportion of females. A higher diversity of pathogens was harbored in young cats rather than adults. Importantly, we showed the value of linking the modern influx of meta-transcriptomics with comparative ecology and demography and of utilizing it to affirm that ecological and demographic variations impact the total infectome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yankuo Sun
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Maoming Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Maoming, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiabao Xing
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sijia Xu
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yue Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianhao Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Han Gao
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Song Cheng
- CAU Dong Jun laboratory, Guangzhou, China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun Dong
- CAU Dong Jun laboratory, Guangzhou, China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tianyou Zhang
- CAU Dong Jun laboratory, Guangzhou, China, Guangzhou, China
- Guangzhou Chimelong Safari Park, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gang Lu
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guy Baele
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Guihong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Maoming Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Maoming, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, China
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Seeger L, Kübler A, Hilger K. Drop-out rates in animal-assisted psychotherapy - Results of a quantitative meta-analysis. BRITISH JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 39101511 DOI: 10.1111/bjc.12492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Animal-assisted psychotherapy is an emerging field with great potential and growing popularity. However, empirical research on its effectiveness is insufficient, and consistent evidence about patients' commitment is missing. The present meta-analysis addresses this gap by systematically comparing drop-out rates in animal-assisted psychotherapy and by relating the resulting across study drop-out rate to across study drop-out rates reported in meta-analyses on conventional psychotherapy. METHOD Fifty-seven studies published until August 2022 were identified as eligible for meta-analytic comparison, that is, they conducted animal-assisted psychotherapy on at least one group of psychiatric patients and reported drop-out rates. Potential moderating influences of the type of animal and patients' disorder were considered, as well as multiple other demographic and study design variables. RESULTS The across study drop-out rate in animal-assisted psychotherapy was 11.2%. This was significantly lower than the across meta-analyses drop-out rate of conventional psychotherapy (d = -.45, p = .0005). Although effects of moderator variables could not be evaluated statistically due to too small and heterogeneous data sets, descriptive results suggest influences of the type of animal and patient disorder. However, study quality ratings identified serious shortcomings regarding proper research design, most critically concerning the report of effect size measures, the use of standardized intervention plans and Open Science practices. CONCLUSION Drop-out constitutes a major problem of psychotherapeutic research and practice. By proposing that the inclusion of an animal in the psychotherapeutic setting can enhance patients' commitment and by outlining challenges and opportunity of animal-assisted psychotherapy, this meta-analysis offers a starting point for future research in this evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linnea Seeger
- Department of Psychology I, Würzburg University, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Andrea Kübler
- Department of Psychology I, Würzburg University, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Kirsten Hilger
- Department of Psychology I, Würzburg University, Würzburg, Germany
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Gunnarsson AB, Aurin IE, Holmberg S. Being in a meaningful context. Nature and animal-assisted activities as perceived by adults with autism. Aust Occup Ther J 2024; 71:513-526. [PMID: 38410868 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1630.12940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Animal-assisted and nature-based interventions in psychosocial treatment for various groups of clients have been studied internationally. However, there is little knowledge about how young adults with autism experience participation in such types of interventions. This clinical study aimed to describe the feasibility of animal-assisted and nature-based activities on a farm as a complementary intervention for young adults with autism and social withdrawal. METHODS The participants were aged 18-30 years, diagnosed with autism and social withdrawal, with no organised occupation during the previous year. Eleven of 13 participants completed a 12-week intervention in small groups. They took part in interviews before and after, which focused on their current life situation and expectations about, and experiences of the intervention. The feasibility was described in terms of participants' characteristics, attendance, and their experiences of participating in the activity. Data were analysed with descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis. CONSUMER AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT The intervention was formed in collaboration with participating supervisors, ordinary clinical staff, and a young woman with a user perspective. FINDINGS The level of feasibility was found to be high. The mean participation rate during the activity days was 75% and varied from 50 to 100%. The analysis of the participants' experiences from the activity generated three categories, "Being in a meaningful context", "Creating a comfort zone" and "Developing structure in everyday life", and each of these included sub-categories. CONCLUSION The main categories revealed a dynamic process based in meaningfulness, comfort and structure in everyday life. The positive experiences of undemanding activities, emotional relationships and non-verbal communication with the horses were prominent and might facilitate the development of social interaction. However, the intervention's timeframe of 12 weeks was experienced as too short for long-lasting change.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Birgitta Gunnarsson
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Research and Development, Växjö, Sweden
| | | | - Sara Holmberg
- Department of Research and Development, Växjö, Sweden
- Department of Medicine and Optometry, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Sweden
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Gnanadesikan GE, King KM, Carranza E, Flyer AC, Ossello G, Smith PG, Steklis NG, Steklis HD, Carter CS, Connelly JJ, Barnett M, Gee N, Tecot SR, MacLean EL. Effects of human-animal interaction on salivary and urinary oxytocin in children and dogs. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2024; 169:107147. [PMID: 39094516 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Oxytocin pathways are hypothesized to play important roles in human-animal interactions and may contribute to some benefits of these interspecific social relationships. We explored the effects of naturalistic interactions between children and dogs on oxytocin release in both species, as well as associations between methylation of the oxytocin receptor gene (OXTRm), social behavior, and oxytocin response in this context. Children (N = 55) participated in a within-subjects design involving a) interaction with their pet dog, b) interaction with an unfamiliar dog, and c) a nonsocial control condition (solitary play). We used immunoassays to measure salivary and urinary oxytocin in both the children and dogs, behavioral coding to characterize dog-child interactions, and bisulfite sequencing to quantify methylation of the oxytocin receptor gene (N = 32 children). Child salivary oxytocin decreased moderately across time in all conditions, but the extent of this effect varied between conditions, with greater oxytocin output during interactions with dogs than the control condition. In the pet dog condition, children's salivary oxytocin response was positively associated with the duration of visual co-orientation between the child and dog. Child urinary oxytocin did not deviate substantially from baseline in any condition. Children with higher levels of OXTRm had greater oxytocin output during interactions with their pet dogs, but lower oxytocin output in the control condition, and engaged in lower levels of affectionate interaction with dogs across conditions. Children's pet dogs exhibited increases in salivary oxytocin, but we observed the opposite pattern in the unfamiliar dog, who exhibited decreases in both urinary and salivary oxytocin on average. Collectively, our results support the hypothesis that oxytocin pathways may shape and respond to social interactions between children and dogs, highlighting an important role for companion animals in child development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gitanjali E Gnanadesikan
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA; Cognitive Science Program, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA; Department of Anthropology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | | | - Elizabeth Carranza
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Arizona, Oro Valley, AZ, USA
| | - Abigail C Flyer
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Gianna Ossello
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Paige G Smith
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Netzin G Steklis
- School of Animal & Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - H Dieter Steklis
- School of Animal & Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - C Sue Carter
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Jessica J Connelly
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Melissa Barnett
- Human Development and Family Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Nancy Gee
- School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Stacey R Tecot
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA; Laboratory for the Evolutionary Endocrinology of Primates, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Evan L MacLean
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Arizona, Oro Valley, AZ, USA.
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Junça-Silva A, Galrito M. Pets at work: integrating pet-friendly initiatives into human resources for enhanced workplace harmony. BMC Psychol 2024; 12:374. [PMID: 38956720 PMCID: PMC11218162 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-01854-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS The representation of companion animals, or pets, has been changing recently. Research concerning how pets influence employees' work-related well-being has also started to take its first steps. This research aimed to analyze (1) how managers perceive pet-friendly practices and their main effects at work, and (2) the impact of such practices on employees' well-being and work engagement. Relying on the social exchange perspective and the self-determination theory it was hypothesized that pet-friendly practices would positively influence employees' well-being and work engagement by satisfying their three basic needs (autonomy, competence, and relatedness). METHODOLOGY Two studies with mixed methods were conducted. The first and exploratory study resorted to semi-structured interviews with six managers. The second was a two-wave study conducted with a large sample of workers (N = 379). RESULTS The first study highlighted the primary advantages and disadvantages of pet-friendly practices, along with the various obstacles and limitations, and proposed managerial strategies to overcome them. Managers generally expressed interest and enthusiasm about the topic but also pointed out challenges in implementing a pet-friendly strategy due to the limited number of empirical studies demonstrating its benefits. The second study's findings indicated that pet-friendly practices positively impacted employees' work engagement and well-being by fulfilling their needs for competence, autonomy, and relatedness. ORIGINALITY Overall, Portugal is seen as having a conservative culture, which slows the dissemination and implementation of these measures. To overcome these challenges, several managerial recommendations have been proposed. Raising awareness and fostering discussion on the topic are crucial steps toward integrating pet-friendly policies into human resources management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Junça-Silva
- Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), Lisboa, Portugal.
- Business Research Unit - BRU (UNIDE-IUL), Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Marisa Galrito
- Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), Lisboa, Portugal
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Gnanadesikan GE, Carranza E, King KM, Flyer AC, Ossello G, Smith PG, Steklis NG, Steklis HD, Connelly JJ, Barnett M, Gee N, Tecot S, MacLean EL. Glucocorticoid response to naturalistic interactions between children and dogs. Horm Behav 2024; 161:105523. [PMID: 38484567 PMCID: PMC11065563 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2024.105523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Although research has shown that pets appear to provide certain types of social support to children, little is known about the physiological bases of these effects, especially in naturalistic contexts. In this study, we investigated the effect of free-form interactions between children (ages 8-10 years) and dogs on salivary cortisol concentrations in both species. We further investigated the role of the child-dog relationship by comparing interactions with the child's pet dog to interactions with an unfamiliar dog or a nonsocial control condition, and modeled associations between survey measures of the human-animal bond and children's physiological responses. In both children and dogs, salivary cortisol decreased from pre- to post-interaction; the effect was strongest for children interacting with an unfamiliar dog (compared to their pet dog) and for the pet dogs (compared to the unfamiliar dog). We found minimal evidence for associations between cortisol output and behaviors coded from video, but children scoring higher on survey measures of the human-animal bond exhibited the greatest reductions in cortisol when interacting with dogs. Self-reported loneliness was not related to cortisol or the human-animal bond, but measures of both loneliness and the human-animal bond were higher among children who participated after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, relative to those who participated before the pandemic. This study builds on previous work that investigated potential stress-buffering effects of human-animal interaction during explicit stressors and demonstrates important physiological correlates of naturalistic interactions between children and dogs, similar to those that occur in daily life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gitanjali E Gnanadesikan
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA; Cognitive Science Program, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Elizabeth Carranza
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Arizona, Oro Valley, AZ, USA
| | | | - Abigail C Flyer
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Gianna Ossello
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Paige G Smith
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Netzin G Steklis
- School of Animal & Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - H Dieter Steklis
- School of Animal & Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Jessica J Connelly
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Melissa Barnett
- Human Development and Family Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Nancy Gee
- School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Stacey Tecot
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Evan L MacLean
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Arizona, Oro Valley, AZ, USA.
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Kovács KE, Balogh ÉZ, Lovas B, Boris P, Nagy BE. The role of animal-assisted programs in physical health improvement of children and adolescents with special education needs - a systematic review. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:824. [PMID: 38491498 PMCID: PMC10943833 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18326-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Programs involving animals in therapeutic programs are becoming increasingly prevalent. These programs can vary greatly in their approach, scope, and objectives, and they can significantly impact the development of healthy children and those with various disorders. In this systematic review, we sought to investigate the psychological ramifications of animal-assisted activities (AAA), therapies (AAT), and interventions (AAI). We searched for relevant studies using the EBSCO Discovery Service search engine across 85 databases, utilising appropriate keywords. Our search generated 262 results, of which 21 were selected for inclusion after title and abstract screening, as well as full-text analysis. Our findings indicate that dogs and horses are animal-assisted programs' most commonly used animals. Additionally, autism, cerebral palsy, and ADHD were found to be overrepresented in these programs. Furthermore, the length of sessions and overall program duration exhibited considerable variation, regardless of patient age or disease type. The principal measures centred on the physiological variables related to the nervous system and motorium-related indicators. The studies were generally of exceptional methodological soundness. Frequently, the studies narrowed their scope to a single segment or just the child or adolescent, but the outcomes lacked contextual interpretation. Expanding the range of studies by comparing psychological and physiological indicators and conducting follow-up analysis with a longitudinal design would be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Éva Zita Balogh
- Doctoral School of Human Sciences, Doctoral Program on Psychology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Buda Lovas
- Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Péter Boris
- Laki Kálmán Doctoral School, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Beáta Erika Nagy
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pediatrics, Pediatric Rehabilitation, Pediatric Psychology and Psychosomatic Unit, head of the Unit, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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King EK, Halbreich ED, Callina K, Mueller MK. Companion animals and the relationship between peer victimization and emotion regulation in youth. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE 2024; 34:85-95. [PMID: 37975498 DOI: 10.1111/jora.12901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Peer victimization can negatively impact emotion regulation in youth and is associated with harmful mental health outcomes. One protective factor against the impacts of peer victimization is a strong attachment to family and positive peer relationships. Given that pets are commonly seen as family members and that youth report turning to their pet for emotional comfort, companion animals could provide an avenue of support for youth experiencing victimization. A geographically diverse sample of 5725 adolescents in the United States from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study® was used to explore whether the relationship between peer victimization and emotion regulation was moderated by whether a pet lives in the home. Having a pet in the home did not moderate the relationship between peer victimization and emotion regulation; however, mean-level differences were present across types of household pet (i.e., youth with no pets, youth with at least one dog, and youth with non-dog pets). Participants who did not live with a companion animal showed higher levels of both maladaptive emotion regulation (expressive suppression) and adaptive emotion regulation (cognitive reappraisal), suggesting that having a pet might lower overall emotion regulation pathways regardless of adaptive directionality. Relational victimization was a significant predictor of expressive suppression regardless of whether there was a pet in the home, although overt victimization was not a predictor of either kind of emotion regulation. This research demonstrates the complex nature of human-animal relationships and suggests more research is needed to understand the nuanced relationship between pets, peer victimization, and emotion regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin K King
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, North Grafton, Massachusetts, USA
- Tisch College of Civic Life at Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Megan K Mueller
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, North Grafton, Massachusetts, USA
- Tisch College of Civic Life at Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, USA
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10
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Yamada A, Akahane D, Takeuchi S, Miyata K, Sato T, Gotoh A. Robot therapy aids mental health in patients with hematological malignancy during hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in a protective isolation unit. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4737. [PMID: 38413634 PMCID: PMC10899246 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54286-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Patients with hematological malignancy experience physical and psychological pain, such as a sense of isolation and confinement due to intensive chemotherapy in a protective isolation unit (PIU). We examined whether the intervention of a robotic puppy, aibo (manufactured by Sony), could improve patients' mental health as an alternative therapy for pet therapy, which is not feasible in PIU. This study included 21 patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) (n = 16) or autologous HSCT (n = 5). The patients were randomly divided into the aibo and control groups. Psychological effects were regularly assessed by measuring the levels of salivary stress hormone chromogranin A (CgA), serum oxytocin, and serum cortisol and the quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology Self-Report (QIDS-SR) scores. The aibo group demonstrated a significant decrease in CgA level, while the control group showed the opposite trend. In addition, changes in serum oxytocin and cortisol levels indicated that aibo helped reduce stress. There was no significant difference in the QIDS-SR scores between the two groups; however, the psychomotor activity in the aibo group improved significantly. These findings suggest that aibo intervention during a stay in a PIU can improve the mental health of patients with hematological malignancies who have undergone HSCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiko Yamada
- Department of Hematology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1, Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan.
| | - Daigo Akahane
- Department of Hematology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1, Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan
| | - Shiho Takeuchi
- Center for Diversity, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kaori Miyata
- Department of Nursing, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takako Sato
- Department of Nursing, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akihiko Gotoh
- Department of Hematology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1, Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan
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11
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Hawkins RD, Kuo CH, Robinson C. Young adults' views on the mechanisms underpinning the impact of pets on symptoms of anxiety and depression. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1355317. [PMID: 38425998 PMCID: PMC10902138 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1355317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Emerging adulthood is considered a peak age for the onset of mental health difficulties with approximately 75% of mental health disorders being diagnosed during this developmental period. Companion animals confer both risk and benefits to mental health yet the potential underpinning mechanisms which explain such impacts are not fully understood. This study aimed to gather an in-depth understanding of young adults' lived experience of how their companion dogs and cats may impact their mental health symptoms and the perceived mechanisms which explain their effects. Methods Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 16 young adults aged 18-26 years, from the United Kingdom, who either had a companion dog, cat, or both. All participants had difficulties with anxiety and or depression, and 12 had received a formal diagnosis of an affective disorder. Results Five overarching themes and one subtheme were identified through reflexive thematic analysis using an inductive approach: Theme 1: Pet impact on generalized anxiety and panic, Subtheme 1A: Pet impact on social anxiety and loneliness; Theme 2: Pet impact on low mood, depression, and stress; Theme 3: Pet impact on severe mental health and suicide prevention; Theme 4: Staying well; Theme 5: Positive outlook and successful futures. Several perceived mechanisms underpinning the impacts of pets for mental health were also identified. Discussion These findings have relevance for the development and evaluation of mental health interventions and treatment protocols aimed at young adults with mental health difficulties, where companion animals may prove to be effective for symptom management and improvements in positive wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxanne D. Hawkins
- Clinical and Health Psychology, School of Health in Social Science, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Chih-Hsin Kuo
- Psychology Division, The University of Stirling, Stirling, United Kingdom
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12
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Müller-Klein A, Braun MN, Ferreira de Sá DS, Michael T, Link-Dorner U, Lass-Hennemann J. A Relaxed Horse-A Relaxed Client? An Experimental Investigation of the Effects of Therapy Horses' Stress on Clients' Stress, Mood, and Anxiety. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:604. [PMID: 38396572 PMCID: PMC10886220 DOI: 10.3390/ani14040604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Equine-assisted therapies are becoming increasingly popular for addressing physical and psychological disabilities in clients. The role of the horse's welfare in equine-assisted service receives increasing attention in research. Several studies have shown that horses are able to perceive human emotions and respond to human stress responses. However, no research has yet looked at the other side of the coin-whether and how humans perceive and react to equine stress levels during equine-assisted services. To fill this gap in the research, we employed a within-subjects design, in which horse-naïve participants had a standardized interaction with both an experimentally stressed horse and an experimentally relaxed horse. We assessed physiological indicators of stress (heart rate, heart rate variability, and salivary cortisol) in participants and horses, as well as psychological indicators of stress (state anxiety and positive and negative affect) in participants. Although our stress and relaxation manipulations were successful (indicated by horses' physiological indicators of stress), we did not find any difference in the participants' physiological or psychological indicators of stress between the interaction with a stressed and the interaction with a relaxed horse. Together with results from previous studies, this suggests that humans cannot intuitively recognize the (physiological) stress level of horses, which has important implications for effective communication and bonding between humans and horses and for the safety of equine activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Müller-Klein
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany; (A.M.-K.); (M.N.B.); (D.S.F.d.S.); (T.M.)
- Institut für Tiergestützte Ausbildung und Therapie (ITAT), Eschringerstraße 70, 66131 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Moritz Nicolai Braun
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany; (A.M.-K.); (M.N.B.); (D.S.F.d.S.); (T.M.)
| | - Diana S. Ferreira de Sá
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany; (A.M.-K.); (M.N.B.); (D.S.F.d.S.); (T.M.)
| | - Tanja Michael
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany; (A.M.-K.); (M.N.B.); (D.S.F.d.S.); (T.M.)
| | - Ulrike Link-Dorner
- Institut für Tiergestützte Ausbildung und Therapie (ITAT), Eschringerstraße 70, 66131 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Johanna Lass-Hennemann
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany; (A.M.-K.); (M.N.B.); (D.S.F.d.S.); (T.M.)
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13
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Chubinidze D, Li Z, Slovak P, Baudinet J, Dufour E, Tchanturia K. Introducing a Smart Toy in Eating Disorder Treatment: A Pilot Study. Nutrients 2024; 16:467. [PMID: 38398792 PMCID: PMC10891985 DOI: 10.3390/nu16040467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Individuals with eating disorders (EDs) often encounter challenges related to body image, emotional, and sensory difficulties during nutritional rehabilitation. To address these challenges, a novel technology-enabled smart toy, Purrble, designed for immediate assistance in emotion regulation, is being explored. A mixed-method approach involving workshops, diaries, and focus groups was employed to examine the feasibility of Purrble as a therapeutic tool and its impact on participants' daily routines, sensory experiences, and emotional states. The study results demonstrate the engagement and acceptability of this device. Qualitative analysis revealed that participants independently used and integrated Purrble into their emotional and sensory regulation practices. These pilot results support the potential for a shift in the delivery of adjunct therapeutic tools through technology, particularly for ED patients with complex presentations. Future research is necessary to further explore the psychological benefits of this intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitri Chubinidze
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King’s College London, London SE5 8AF, UK; (D.C.); (Z.L.); (J.B.)
- National Eating Disorders Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London SE5 8AZ, UK;
| | - Zhuo Li
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King’s College London, London SE5 8AF, UK; (D.C.); (Z.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Petr Slovak
- Department of Informatics, King’s College London, London WC2B 4BG, UK;
| | - Julian Baudinet
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King’s College London, London SE5 8AF, UK; (D.C.); (Z.L.); (J.B.)
- Maudsley Centre for Child and Adolescent Eating Disorders (MCCAED), Maudsley Hospital, London SE5 8AZ, UK
| | - Emmanuelle Dufour
- National Eating Disorders Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London SE5 8AZ, UK;
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King’s College London, London SE5 8AF, UK; (D.C.); (Z.L.); (J.B.)
- National Eating Disorders Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London SE5 8AZ, UK;
- Department of Psychology, Ilia State University, Tbilisi 0162, Georgia
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Vaidhya A, Ghildiyal K, Rajawat D, Nayak SS, Parida S, Panigrahi M. Relevance of pharmacogenetics and pharmacogenomics in veterinary clinical practice: A review. Anim Genet 2024; 55:3-19. [PMID: 37990577 DOI: 10.1111/age.13376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
The recent advances in high-throughput next-generation sequencing technologies have heralded the arrival of the Big Data era. As a result, the use of pharmacogenetics in drug discovery and individualized drug therapy has transformed the field of precision medicine. This paradigm shift in drug development programs has effectively reshaped the old drug development practices, which were primarily concerned with the physiological status of patients for drug development. Pharmacogenomics bridges the gap between pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics, advancing current diagnostic and treatment strategies and enabling personalized and targeted drug therapy. The primary goals of pharmacogenetic studies are to improve drug efficacy and minimize toxicities, to identify novel drug targets, to estimate drug dosage for personalized medicine, and to incorporate it as a routine diagnostic for disease susceptibility. Although pharmacogenetics has numerous applications in individualized drug therapy and drug development, it is in its infancy in veterinary medicine. The objective of this review is to present an overview of historical landmarks, current developments in various animal species, challenges and future perspectives of genomics in drug development and dosage optimization for individualized medicine in veterinary subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayushi Vaidhya
- Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, UP, India
| | - Kanika Ghildiyal
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, UP, India
| | - Divya Rajawat
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, UP, India
| | - Sonali Sonejita Nayak
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, UP, India
| | - Subhashree Parida
- Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, UP, India
| | - Manjit Panigrahi
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, UP, India
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Żebrowska M, Strohmaier S, Westgarth C, Huttenhower C, Eliassen HA, Haghayegh S, Huang T, Laden F, Hart J, Rosner B, Kawachi I, Chavarro JE, Okereke OI, Schernhammer ES. Timing and duration of dog walking and dog owner's chronotype in relation to incident depression risk among middle to older-aged female nurses. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296922. [PMID: 38295024 PMCID: PMC10829988 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We examined associations between dog ownership, morning dog walking and its timing and duration, and depression risk in female nurses, exploring effect modification by chronotype. We hypothesized that dog ownership and morning walking with the dog are associated with lower odds of depression, and that the latter is particularly beneficial for evening chronotypes by helping them to synchronize their biological clock with the solar system. METHODS 26,169 depression-free US women aged 53-72 from the Nurses' Health Study 2 (NHS2) were prospectively followed from 2017-2019. We used age- and multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) for depression according to dog ownership, and morning dog walking, duration, and timing. RESULTS Overall, there was no association between owning a dog (ORvs_no_pets = 1.12, 95%CI = 0.91-1.37), morning dog walking (ORvs_not = 0.87, 95%CI = 0.64-1.18), or the duration (OR>30min vs. ≤15mins = 0.68, 95%CI = 0.35-1.29) or timing of morning dog walks (ORafter9am vs. before7am = 1.06, 95%CI = 0.54-2.05) and depression. Chronotype of dog owners appeared to modify these associations. Compared to women of the same chronotype but without pets, dog owners with evening chronotypes had a significantly increased odds of depression (OR = 1.60, 95%CI = 1.12-2.29), whereas morning chronotypes did not (OR = 0.94, 95%CI = 0.71-1.23). Further, our data suggested that evening chronotypes benefited more from walking their dog themselves in the morning (OR = 0.75, 95%CI = 0.46-1.23, Pintx = 0.064;) than morning chronotypes. CONCLUSIONS Overall, dog ownership was not associated with depression risk though it was increased among evening chronotypes. Walking their dog in the morning might help evening chronotypes to lower their odds of depression, though more data are needed to confirm this finding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Żebrowska
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Susanne Strohmaier
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Carri Westgarth
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Curtis Huttenhower
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Heather A. Eliassen
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Shahab Haghayegh
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Tianyi Huang
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Francine Laden
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Jaime Hart
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Bernard Rosner
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Ichiro Kawachi
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Jorge E. Chavarro
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Olivia I. Okereke
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Eva S. Schernhammer
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
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Junça Silva A. Applying the Affective Events Theory to Explore the Effect of Daily Micro-Interruptions on Mental Health: The Mediating Role of Affect and the Moderating Role of Pets at Work. THE SPANISH JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2024; 27:e1. [PMID: 38287868 DOI: 10.1017/sjp.2024.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
This study relied on the affective events theory and the social exchange theory to develop a framework that explains how situational factors (daily micro-interruptions) enhance affective reactions (negative affect) and, in turn, impair health conditions (mental health) at work. We further delineate theoretical arguments to propose the pet-human's health effect by demonstrating that pets are boundary conditions that attenuate this relation, and as such are protective conditions for employees' mental health. We conducted a 5-day diary study with two groups of participants, one with participants who owned pets (N = 82 x 5 = 410), and the other who did not own pets (N = 87 x 5 = 435). The multilevel results showed an indirect effect of daily micro-interruptions on individuals' mental health through negative affect, with a daily backdrop of poorer mental health for those who did not own a pet (compared to those who owned a pet). These results evidence the benefits of owning a pet for individuals' mental health, even at work, and as such provide recommendations for teleworking practices. Moreover, this study resorts to an innovative and robust data collection method to demonstrate the pet-human' health effect. This study expands knowledge on the role of pets in working daily routines and shows that pets may be a personal resource for individuals while working.
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Fornefeld D, Zellin U, Schmidt P, Fricke O. The supporting role of dogs in the inpatient setting: a systematic review of the therapeutic effects of animal-assisted therapy with dogs for children and adolescents in an inpatient setting. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2023:10.1007/s00787-023-02326-1. [PMID: 38147109 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-023-02326-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is becoming increasingly popular. The possibilities and guidelines for interventions and methods are very diverse. Currently, published studies mainly concentrate on effects in paediatrics, outpatient therapy and schools. Specific recommendations for AAT in the context of inpatient child and adolescent psychiatry do not exist. This systematic review will attempt to evaluate the existing studies in terms of their methodological quality and specify positive and negative effects, aiming to provide a decision-making aid for everyday clinical practice. A systematic literature search (PubMed/MEDLINE, APA PsycINFO, PubPsych, ProQuest, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library) according to the PRISMA criteria resulted in 1,908 identified hits, of which 49 articles were reviewed in full text. Three raters contributed to the review of the articles using a criteria-guided codebook. This systematic review is listed in the PROSPERO database (CRD42022358909). Quality analysis was conducted using Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP). Five studies were identified. The majority of these showed deficits in quality. Therapeutic effects and positive influences on the psychopathological status, interpersonal relationships and subjective well-being or attitudes towards canine-assisted therapy (CAT) could be identified. Current studies indicate positive therapeutic effects of CAT in the inpatient treatment of children and adolescents. A cautiously positive perspective is warranted, but a general recommendation for CAT cannot be given. CAT should be carefully considered, planned, and implemented by professionals. For the future, further randomised controlled studies including follow-up studies, larger subject groups and clinically evaluated interventions are necessary to validate the current results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin Fornefeld
- Department of Special Care Dentistry, Witten/Herdecke University, Alfred-Herrhausen-Str 50, 58448, Witten, Germany.
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy and Psychiatry, Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Herdecke, Herdecke, Germany.
| | - Undine Zellin
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy and Psychiatry, Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Herdecke, Herdecke, Germany
- Department of Artistic Therapies and Therapy Sciences, Institute for Art Therapy, Alanus University of Arts and Social Sciences, Alfter, Germany
| | - Peter Schmidt
- Department of Special Care Dentistry, Witten/Herdecke University, Alfred-Herrhausen-Str 50, 58448, Witten, Germany
| | - Oliver Fricke
- Faculty of Health, Department of Human Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
- Department for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Klinikum Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
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Mombeck MM, Albers T. The Impact of a School Dog on Children's Social Inclusion and Social Climate in a School Class. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ 2023; 14:1-17. [PMID: 38275339 PMCID: PMC10813843 DOI: 10.3390/ejihpe14010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Animal-assisted pedagogy is well known in classroom practice, but scientific evidence of its impact on teaching and learning conditions is still lacking. At the same time, the biggest challenge in education systems worldwide is the social inclusion of students. In a pre-post design, 30 heterogeneous students (16 f/14 m) from four different school classes (grades 5-8) of two secondary schools and one grammar school were interviewed (in a problem-centered interview) about their social inclusion and their social climate in class before and after being taught selected subjects with a school dog for one school term. At the second measurement point, participants were also asked about their perception of animal-assisted pedagogy. The qualitative data analysis (Kuckartz) showed that the presence of a dog leads to an improved social climate, more social integration and to a change in social roles; therefore, we discussed our findings in the context of role theory (Krappmann). In addition, we found that the mutual perception of the other students and the teacher changes to a more positive and friendlier image. Through animal-assisted pedagogy, a new social role is added to the classroom, where caring and bonding are prioritized. Social interaction and norms are influenced and stereotypical and individual roles can be changed. Therefore, animal-assisted pedagogy can be key to promoting social inclusion in the school environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona M. Mombeck
- Inclusive Pedagogy, Institute for Educational Science, University of Paderborn, 33098 Paderborn, Germany;
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Rigby BR. Characterizing stress during animal interaction: a focus on the human endocrine response during equine-assisted services. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1303354. [PMID: 38188717 PMCID: PMC10766751 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1303354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Repeated stresses applied to the rider may contribute to the documented physical and psychosocial outcomes from equine-assisted services. In this brief review, a summary of neuroendocrine markers of stress, including immunoglobulin A, serotonin, cortisol, progesterone, and oxytocin, is presented within the context of the physiology of stress modulation. Results are mixed with regard to the effects of these hormones on rider physiology before, during, and after equine-assisted services. However, some results from existing studies are promising with regard to the attenuation of stress. Future research should include a cross-disciplinary approach when conducting well-controlled studies with proper treatment and experimental fidelity, while also considering exogenous and endogenous factors that influence rider physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon R. Rigby
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, School of Health Promotion and Kinesiology, Texas Woman's University, Denton, TX, United States
- Institute for Women's Health, Texas Woman's University, Denton, TX, United States
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Pu L, Coppieters MW, Smalbrugge M, Jones C, Byrnes J, Todorovic M, Moyle W. Implementing PainChek and PARO to Support Pain Assessment and Management in Residents with Dementia: A Qualitative Study. Pain Manag Nurs 2023; 24:587-594. [PMID: 37105837 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmn.2023.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pain is a common problem but often undiagnosed and untreated in people with dementia. AIMS This study explored the experiences of residents with dementia, family, andformal carers with (1) pain assessment and management for residents with dementia; (2) the use of the PainChek app for pain assessment, and (3) the use of a social robot PARO for pain management in residents with dementia. DESIGN A qualitative study. SETTINGS/PARTICIPANTS Interviews were conducted with 13 residents withdementia, three family members, and 18 formal carers from a residential aged carefacility. METHOD Residents with dementia interacted with PARO for 15 mins, five days perweek for three weeks. The PainChek app assessed pain levels before and after eachsession. After three-week intervention, individual interviews were conducted withresidents, family, and formal carers who experienced or observed the use of PainChekapp and PARO for residents. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, andanalyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Four themes were identified regarding pain in residents with dementia: (1) the impact, challenges and strategies of pain assessment and management; (2) benefits and barriers of using PainChek app to assess pain; (3) benefits of interacting with PARO to manage pain and behavioral symptoms; and (4) implementing PainChek app and PARO to support pain assessment and management in dementia care. CONCLUSIONS Technology, such as PainChek and PARO, is promising to improve painassessment and reduce pain for people with dementia. Barriers to using technologyinclude limited staff training and the implementation of person-centered care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihui Pu
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia; School of Nursing and Midwifery, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Michel W Coppieters
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia; Amsterdam Movement Sciences - Program Musculoskeletal Health, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Martin Smalbrugge
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Medicine for Older People, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Aging & Later Life, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cindy Jones
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia; Faculty of Health Sciences & Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Joshua Byrnes
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia; Centre for Applied Health Economics, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Michael Todorovic
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia; School of Nursing and Midwifery, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Wendy Moyle
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia; School of Nursing and Midwifery, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
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Chan CKY, Wong PWC. Hong Kong veterinarians' encounters with client-related stress - a qualitative study. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1186715. [PMID: 38098999 PMCID: PMC10720360 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1186715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims Limited research has explored the stressors experienced by veterinarians in East Asia. Metropolitan cities like Hong Kong may have overlooked factors that significantly contribute to veterinarians' stress. This paper examines how client-related stressors and contextual factors contribute to the stress levels of Hong Kong-based veterinarians. Methods Veterinarians from small domestic animal practices in Hong Kong were recruited using purposive and targeted snowball samplings until thematic saturation was achieved. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted, audio-recorded, transcribed, coded, and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis with an interpretivist paradigm based on Heidegger's phenomenological approach. Results A total of 18 participating veterinarians described the expectations of and communication with the animal-health enthusiast (AHE) community, including clients, pet owners, and animal lovers, as their primary source of stress. Discrepant expectations and miscommunication between the AHE and veterinary communities, along with contextual factors, such as convenience in clinic switching, negative online reviews, and the relatively short history of the veterinary profession in the multilingual city, were identified as contributing factors to their stress. Recent socio-political events and the pandemic further intensified societal emotions, leading some clients to project frustrations onto perceived authority figures, including health professionals. Conclusion The study highlights that client-related stress extends beyond the health of animal patients, encompassing the expectations of the AHE community, which requires professional-level communication skills to build a mutually respectful three-party relationship. Besides, Hong Kong's unique contextual and historical factors subtly but chronically impact veterinary practices, which can be easily overlooked. Recognising these influences and how they interact is crucial for collaboration, within and beyond the profession, at the policy level to improve veterinary training and practices. Implications Our findings highlight the importance of expectation management and improving communication quality to foster healthy relationships among animals, the AHE community, and veterinary professionals. These efforts are believed to alleviate veterinarians' stress and enhance the well-being of all parties involved. We recommend incorporating effective communication and self-care discussions into the veterinary curriculum and advocating ongoing training for practising veterinarians. At the community level, encouraging open dialogues between animal caregivers and veterinary professionals can help address expectation discrepancies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul W. C. Wong
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Li J, Sánchez-García R. Equine-assisted interventions for veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder: a systematic review. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1277338. [PMID: 38025432 PMCID: PMC10654975 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1277338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Equine-assisted intervention therapy has a nearly 60-year history and has been shown to have a significant positive impact on various types of psychotherapy patients. Due to an increase in research on EAT, the number of existing methods of equine-assisted intervention therapy has gradually increased. Based on existing literature on the application of equine-assisted intervention therapy on veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), this study examines the characteristics of several types of equine interventions and includes a systematic review of peer-reviewed literature on equine-assisted interventions for veterans with PTSD published over the past 5 years, from 2018 to the present. Ten articles met the review criteria and served as the primary data for analysis. Several types of equine-assisted interventions were shown to have a beneficial psychological impact on veterans. However, some limitations were also found in the studies, such as that the majority of experiments were constrained by small sample sizes. Equine-assisted intervention therapy has been shown to be effective, but further research is merited, in order to focus on the specific details and theories involved in equine-assisted interventions, and on the welfare of the horses involved in the therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Li
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Actividad Física y del Deporte (INEF), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Naik SS, Joshi A, Winnier JJ, Patil DD, Gore PJ, Mali SS. Evaluation of dental anxiety in children with Down's syndrome using dog-assisted therapy: A pilot study. J Indian Soc Pedod Prev Dent 2023; 41:322-327. [PMID: 38235819 DOI: 10.4103/jisppd.jisppd_493_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dental anxiety and fear are the major treatment challenges faced by pediatric dentists. Oral hygiene in children with Down's syndrome is highly compromised in comparison to their healthy counterparts. Animal-assisted therapy, through dogs, has been beneficial in alleviating dental fear and anxiety in healthy pediatric population. AIM The aim of the study was to assess the impact of dog-assisted therapy (DAT) on children with Down's syndrome undergoing dental examination and fluoride varnish application in dental operatory. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty children with Down's syndrome between 5 and 12 years of age were selected. Group A (intervention group): DAT was carried out in the dental operatory. Group B (control group): Dental treatment was performed in the absence of a therapy dog in the dental operatory. Anxiety levels were evaluated by recording the pulse rate and revised modified faces version of the Modified Child Dental Anxiety Scale (MCDAS[f]). STATISTICAL ANALYSIS The intergroup comparison of pulse rate was done using an unpaired t-test, whereas the variation in intragroup pulse rate was analyzed using the Analysis of Variance test. The anxiety scores were subjected to a paired t-test for intragroup comparison with P < 0.05 considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS Reduction in dental anxiety was observed in the intervention group (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION DAT can be used as an effective behavior management technique for children with Down's syndrome undergoing dental examination and simple dental procedures in the dental operatory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa S Naik
- Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, DY Patil University - School of Dentistry, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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Bellflowers LA, Ruttencutter GS. Therapy Dog Presence in an Undergraduate Nursing Program. J Christ Nurs 2023; 40:230-235. [PMID: 37653653 DOI: 10.1097/cnj.0000000000001099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Research supports the use of animal-assisted interactions and pet therapy in various settings. Undergraduate nursing students experience high levels of stress and anxiety which often continue as they become professional nurses. Entering the workforce equipped with positive coping strategies may help newly licensed nurses to combat stressors. This qualitative descriptive study examined the experiences of undergraduate nursing students with the presence of a therapy dog. Four major themes regarding the role of therapy dogs were identified: as a coping strategy, as a mood moderator, as a positive distraction, and for community building.
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Berget B, Vas J, Pedersen G, Uvnäs-Moberg K, Newberry RC. Oxytocin levels and self-reported anxiety during interactions between humans and cows. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1252463. [PMID: 37780173 PMCID: PMC10536144 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1252463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Positive social interactions with farm animals may have therapeutic benefits on humans by increasing brain oxytocin secretion, as inferred from circulating oxytocin levels. The aim of this observational study was to investigate acute changes in human plasma oxytocin levels and state anxiety associated with interactions with dairy cows. Methods Data were collected from 18 healthy female nursing students who performed stroking and brushing of an unfamiliar cow for 15 min. Blood samples were drawn before entering the cowshed (T1, baseline), and after 5 (T2) and 15 (T3) min of interaction with a cow. At T1 and T3, the students filled out the Norwegian version of the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-State Subscale (STAI-SS). Results Across participants, no significant changes in average plasma oxytocin concentration were detected between time points (p>0.05). There was, however, a modest decline in the STAI-SS scores between T1 and T3 (p=0.015) and a positive correlation between the change in individual level of state anxiety between T1 and T3 and the change in OT concentration of the same individual between T2 and T3 (p = 0.045). Discussion The results suggest that friendly social interactions with cows are beneficial in lowering state anxiety, but any relationship with release of OT into the circulation was complex and variable across individuals. The acute reduction in state anxiety lends support to the value of interacting with farm animals in the context of Green Care for people with mental health challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bente Berget
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Department of Health, Social and Welfare Studies, University of South-Eastern Norway, Borre, Norway
- Department of Health and Society, NORCE Norwegian Research Centre AS, Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Judit Vas
- Faculty of Biosciences, Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Gunn Pedersen
- Faculty of Biosciences, Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Kerstin Uvnäs-Moberg
- Department of Animal Environment and Health, Section of Anthrozoology and Applied Ethology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Skara, Sweden
| | - Ruth C. Newberry
- Faculty of Biosciences, Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
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Gerson JS, Marco KC, Staab JH, Dixon CA. Paws to Care: Implementation of a Novel Medical Dog Office Hours Program to Foster Pediatric Health Care Staff Resilience and Joy. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2023; 62:849-855. [PMID: 36856075 DOI: 10.1177/00099228231152860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Burnout and resiliency are significant challenges among health care workers. Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) has shown to improve patient-level outcomes; however, AAT research involving hospital staff is limited. Our novel Medical Dog ("MD") Office Hours Program aimed to provide support to pediatric hospital staff and explore the program's impact on burnout. Participant surveys described work role and years of experience, well-being, and emotional/physical descriptions and symptoms. Of 149 participants, 85% endorsed baseline distress/burnout; nearly half had at-risk Well-Being Index scores. Compared with baseline, postintervention participants endorsed significantly fewer negative (more positive) emotions; greater feelings of comfort and energy; and decreased tiredness and pain (P < .0001). Readiness to return to work scores were high (M = 78.1, SD = 18.4). Our Medical Dog ("MD") Office Hours Program resulted in improvements in emotional descriptions and physical symptoms among pediatric health care staff. Leveraging AAT among health care staff may help mitigate burnout and increase resiliency.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Cinnamon A Dixon
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
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27
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Petitt E, Rolander B, Johnsson P. Medical Nature-Based Rehabilitation Program for Individuals with Exhaustion Syndrome: Changes in Quality of Life, Exhaustion Symptoms and Overall Health. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6677. [PMID: 37681817 PMCID: PMC10487912 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20176677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Stress-related health problems have increased sharply over the last two decades and have become a serious issue at all levels of society. In the Jönköping Region in southern Sweden, a nature-based rehabilitation (NBR) program for adults with Exhaustion Syndrome has been developed and then implemented into the Swedish National Healthcare System. The main aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of this NBR-program. This was achieved by examining patients' quality of life, exhaustion symptoms and overall health using self-assessment instruments, comparing the results before participation to immediately after, three months after and six months after. With a sample size of 67 participants, the results show a statistically significant improvement for all points. From a public health perspective, and with background knowledge of the nature of the patient group under treatment, the studied program would appear to be effective and economic, having a satisfied patient group as well as a favourable comparison with the outcomes of other research programs. Although the results are promising, as this is a naturalistic field study, there is no control group, and further research is encouraged. We suggest randomised controlled studies, longitudinal studies and investigation of mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor Petitt
- Department of Psychology, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
| | - Bo Rolander
- Futurum—The Academy for Health and Care, Region Jönköping, 553 05 Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Per Johnsson
- Department of Psychology, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
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Kotrschal K. Wolf-Dog-Human: Companionship Based on Common Social Tools. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2729. [PMID: 37684993 PMCID: PMC10486892 DOI: 10.3390/ani13172729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Wolves, dogs and humans share extremely social and cooperative minds. These similarities are rooted in phylogenetic homology and in the convergence of neuronal and physiological mechanisms, particularly the brain, in the functioning and communication of basic affects and in the mechanisms of stress and calming. The domesticated wolves called dogs are particularly close companion animals. Both Palaeolithic humans and wolves were hypercursorial hunters, cooperating in complex and prosocial ways within their clans with respect to hunting, raising offspring, and defending against conspecific and heterospecific competitors and predators. These eco-social parallels have shaped the development of similar social mindsets in wolves and humans. Over the millennia of domestication, this social match was fine-tuned, resulting in the socio-cognitive specialists humans and dogs, possessing amazingly similar social brains and minds. Therefore, it can be concluded that the quality of their relationships with their human masters is a major factor in the wellbeing, welfare and even health of dogs, as well as in the wellbeing of their human partners. Based on their strikingly similar social brains and physiologies, it can be further concluded that anthropomorphically applying human empathy to dogs in an educated manner may not be as inappropriate as previously thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt Kotrschal
- Department of Behavioral & Cognitive Biology, University of Vienna, 1030 Wien, Austria
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Marchand WR. Potential Mechanisms of Action and Outcomes of Equine-Assisted Services for Veterans with a History of Trauma: A Narrative Review of the Literature. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6377. [PMID: 37510609 PMCID: PMC10379349 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20146377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Equine-assisted services (EASs) are being increasingly used as complementary interventions for military veterans who have experienced trauma. However, there is limited evidence of benefit for this population and almost no literature describing the desired potential outcomes and possible mechanisms of action. The aim of this article is to address these gaps by reviewing the extant literature of animal-assisted interventions in general, and equine-assisted services in particular, with the goal of providing guidance for future investigations in the field. Currently, the field is in the early stage of scientific development, but published results are promising. Interventions that enhance treatment compliance and/or outcomes could benefit this population. Preliminary results, reviewed herein, indicate that EAS interventions might benefit the military veteran population by enhancing treatment engagement and therapeutic alliance, as well as by contributing to symptom reduction and resulting in various transdiagnostic benefits. It is recommended that future studies include exploration of potential beneficial outcomes discussed herein, as well as investigate suggested mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R Marchand
- VISN 19 Whole Health Flagship Site, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, 500 Foothill, Salt Lake City, UT 84148, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Utah, 501 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
- Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, 4815 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322, USA
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Nagasawa T, Kimura Y, Masuda K, Uchiyama H. Effects of Interactions with Cats in Domestic Environment on the Psychological and Physiological State of Their Owners: Associations among Cortisol, Oxytocin, Heart Rate Variability, and Emotions. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2116. [PMID: 37443915 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Interactions with animals, including cats, is believed to influence human health. However, studies that investigate the psychological and physiological effects of interacting with cats in their household environment are limited. In this remote study, 32 cat owners in Japan participated from June to October 2021. They completed two tasks, each on separate days in their homes: one simulating daily cat communication (Interaction condition) and another with no interactions (Rest condition). We quantified emotions (arousal level and pleasure level) before and after each condition using the Two-Dimensional Mood Scale Short-term as well as salivary cortisol and oxytocin levels of owners using enzyme-linked immune-sorbent assay. Autonomic nervous activity (sympathetic and parasympathetic) was also quantified by heart rate variability analysis. The free interaction with cats decreased emotional arousal and parasympathetic activity, and lead to increased heart rates in owners. There was a positive correlation between heart rate and cortisol concentration, and between cortisol and oxytocin concentration. Furthermore, the frequency of petting the cats was negatively correlated with the rate of change in the parasympathetic activity. In contrast, the parasympathetic nerves in the owners were activated under the Rest condition. Hence, the mechanism of health-enhancing effects of cat ownership includes an arousing effect, in contrast to the previously proposed stress-reduction effect. This result can aid in future developments in cat-human relationship studies. However, a detailed study with a larger sample size is needed to draw definite conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takumi Nagasawa
- Department of Human and Animal-Plant Relationships, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Funako 1737, Atsugi 243-0034, Japan
| | - Yuichi Kimura
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Funako 1737, Atsugi 243-0034, Japan
| | - Koji Masuda
- Department of Human and Animal-Plant Relationships, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Funako 1737, Atsugi 243-0034, Japan
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Funako 1737, Atsugi 243-0034, Japan
| | - Hidehiko Uchiyama
- Department of Human and Animal-Plant Relationships, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Funako 1737, Atsugi 243-0034, Japan
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Funako 1737, Atsugi 243-0034, Japan
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Tyssedal MK, Johnsen E, Brønstad A, Skrede S. Dog-assisted interventions for adults diagnosed with schizophrenia and related disorders: a systematic review. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1192075. [PMID: 37426092 PMCID: PMC10326428 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1192075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Many individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia and related disorders experience insufficient symptom relief from currently available treatment options. Researching additional venues should be prioritized. This systematic review, designed in accordance with PRISMA, examined the effect of targeted and structured dog-assisted interventions as a supplementary treatment. Methods Randomized as well as non-randomized studies were included. Systematic searches were conducted in APA PsycInfo, AMED, CENTRAL, Cinahl, Embase, Medline, Web of Science, and in several sources covering "gray" (unpublished) literature. In addition, forward and backward citation searches were performed. A narrative synthesis was conducted. Quality of evidence and risk of bias were assessed in accordance with GRADE and RoB2/ROBINS-I criteria. Results 12 publications from 11 different studies met eligibility criteria. Overall, studies showed diverging results. General psychopathology, positive and negative symptoms of psychosis, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, self-determination, lower body strength, social function, and quality of life were among the outcome measures with significant improvement. Most documentation for significant improvement was found for positive symptoms. One study indicated significant deterioration of non-personal social behavior. The risk of bias was high or serious for most of the outcome measures. Three outcome measures were associated with some concerns regarding risk of bias, and three with low risk of bias. Quality of evidence was graded low or very low for all outcome measures. Conclusions The included studies indicate potential effects of dog-assisted interventions for adults diagnosed with schizophrenia and related disorders, mostly beneficial. Nevertheless, low number of participants, heterogeneity, and risk of bias complicate the interpretation of results. Carefully designed randomized controlled trials are needed to determine causality between interventions and treatment effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Erik Johnsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Division of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- NORMENT Centre of Excellence, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Aurora Brønstad
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Silje Skrede
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Section of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
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Valiyamattam GJ, Katti H, Chaganti VK, O'Haire ME, Sachdeva V. Circumscribed interests in autism: Can animals potentially re-engage social attention? RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2023; 137:104486. [PMID: 37062184 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2023.104486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circumscribed interests (CI) in autism are highly fixated and repetitive interests, generally centering on non-social and idiosyncratic topics. The increased salience of CI objects often results in decreased social attention, thus interfering with social interactions. Behavioural, biomarker and neuroimaging research points to enhanced social functioning in autistic children in the presence of animals. For instance, neuroimaging studies report a greater activation of reward systems in the brain in response to animal stimuli whereas eye-tracking studies reveal a higher visual preference for animal faces in autistic individuals. This potentially greater social reward attached to animals, introduces the interesting and yet unexplored possibility that the presence of competing animal stimuli may reduce the disproportionately higher visual attention to CI objects. METHOD We examined this using a paired-preference eye-tracking paradigm where images of human and animal faces were paired with CI and non-CI objects. 31 children (ASD n = 16; TD n = 15) participated in the study (3391 observations). RESULTS Autistic children showed a significantly greater visual attention to CI objects whereas typical controls showed a significantly greater visual attention to social images across pairings. Interestingly, pairing with a CI object significantly reduced the social attention elicited to human faces but not animal faces. Further, in pairings with CI objects, significantly greater sustained attention per visit was seen for animal faces when compared to human faces. CONCLUSIONS These results thus suggest that social attention deficits in ASD may not be uniform across human and animal stimuli. Animals may comprise a potentially important stimulus category modulating visual attention in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Harish Katti
- Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
| | | | - Marguerite E O'Haire
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Virender Sachdeva
- Child Sight Institute, Nimmagadda Prasad Children's Eye Care Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, GMRV Campus, Visakhapatnam, India
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Rankins EM, McKeever KH, Malinowski K. Equids in Equine Assisted Services: A Scoping Review. J Equine Vet Sci 2023:104825. [PMID: 37244632 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2023.104825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Equid welfare in equine assisted services (EAS) is an area that has received attention, but less attention than the documentation of human outcomes in response to EAS. To safeguard the well-being of equids and minimize human risk of injury, continued research on the effects of EAS programming and participants on equids needs to occur. The aims of this systematic scoping review were to identify the approaches taken for describing and understanding equids in EAS and the methods employed in evaluating equids' responses to EAS programming, participants, or both. Literature searches were performed in relevant databases to identify titles and abstracts for screening. Fifty-three articles were identified for full-text review. Fifty-one articles met the inclusion criteria and were retained for information and data extraction. The qualitative grouping of articles by study aim resulted in four categories: 1) characterization and description of equids in EAS; 2) the acute responses of equids to EAS programming, participants, or both; 3) the effects of management practices; and 4) the chronic responses of equids to EAS programming and participants. The latter three areas are in need of more research, especially as it relates to differentiating acute and chronic effects of EAS on the equids involved. Detailed reporting of information on study design, programming and participant characteristics, equid demographics, and workload are needed to facilitate comparison among studies and permit eventual meta-analysis of studies. Multi-faceted approaches including an array of measurements as well as relevant and informative control groups or conditions are required to identify the complex effects of EAS work on equids, their welfare, well-being, and affective states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen M Rankins
- Rutgers Equine Science Center, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
| | - Kenneth H McKeever
- Rutgers Equine Science Center, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Karyn Malinowski
- Rutgers Equine Science Center, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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Plett O, Flasbeck V, Brüne M. Effects of human and animal-assisted skills training on oxytocin und cortisol levels in patients with borderline personality disorder. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 162:156-160. [PMID: 37156130 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is characterised, among other symptoms, by emotional instability and difficulties in regulating proximity to significant others. Many with BPD have difficulties in establishing a trustful therapeutic relationship, which often develop before a background of adverse childhood experiences with caregivers. One way to facilitate therapeutic interaction in psychotherapy incorporates pet animals as "door openers". No study exists, however, that has examined the effect of animal-assisted versus human-guided skills training on neurobiological correlates of affiliation and stress regulation, i.e. oxytocin and cortisol. METHODS Twenty in-patients diagnosed with BPD were recruited to participate in an animal-assisted skills-training. Another 20 in-patients participated in a human-guided skills-training. Salivary samples of both groups were taken for determining oxytocin and cortisol before and immediately after 3 therapeutic sessions at least one week apart from one another. In addition, borderline symptom severity (BSL-23), impulsivity (BIS-15), alexithymia (TAS-20), and fear of compassion (FOCS) were determined by self-rating questionnaires before and after the 6-week interventions. RESULTS Both therapeutic interventions led to a significant reduction in cortisol and an (non-significant) increase in oxytocin, respectively. Importantly, there was a statistically significant interaction between changes in cortisol and oxytocin, independent of group. Both groups further showed clinical improvement as measured using the above-listed questionnaires. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that both animal-assisted and human-guided interventions have measurable short-term effects on affiliative and stress hormones, with no approach being superior to the other in this regard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Plett
- LWL University Hospital Bochum, Division of Social Neuropsychiatry and Evolutionary Medicine, Ruhr University, 44791, Bochum, NRW, Germany
| | - Vera Flasbeck
- LWL University Hospital Bochum, Division of Social Neuropsychiatry and Evolutionary Medicine, Ruhr University, 44791, Bochum, NRW, Germany
| | - Martin Brüne
- LWL University Hospital Bochum, Division of Social Neuropsychiatry and Evolutionary Medicine, Ruhr University, 44791, Bochum, NRW, Germany.
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Lopes-Conceição L, Peleteiro B, Araújo N, Dias T, Fontes F, Pereira S, Lunet N. Pet ownership during the first 5 years after breast cancer diagnosis in the NEON-BC cohort. Eur J Public Health 2023:7140395. [PMID: 37094984 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckad065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although human-animal interactions (HAI) have been associated with health benefits, they have not been extensively studied among cancer patients nor which factors may influence HAI during cancer survivorship. Therefore, this study aims to describe pet ownership in a breast cancer cohort within 5 years post-diagnosis and to identify associated factors. METHODS Four hundred sixty-six patients from the NEON-BC cohort were evaluated. Four groups of pet ownership over the 5 years were defined: 'never had', 'stopped having', 'started having' and 'always had'. Multinomial logistic regression was used to quantify the association between the patient characteristics and the groups defined (reference: 'never had'). RESULTS 51.7% of patients had pets at diagnosis, which increased to 58.4% at 5 years; dogs and cats were the most common. Women presenting depressive symptoms and poor quality of life were more likely to stop having pets. Older and unpartnered women were less likely to start having pets. Those retired, living outside Porto, having diabetes or having owned animals during adulthood were more likely to start having pets. Women with higher education and unpartnered were less likely to always have pets. Those living in larger households, with other adults or having animals throughout life, were more likely to always have pets. Obese women had lower odds of stopping having dogs/cats. Women submitted to neoadjuvant chemotherapy and longer chemotherapy treatments were more likely to stop having dogs/cats. CONCLUSIONS Pet ownership changed over the 5 years and is influenced by sociodemographic, clinical and treatment characteristics, patient-reported outcomes and past pet ownership, reflecting the importance of HAI during cancer survivorship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Lopes-Conceição
- EPIUnit-Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Departamento de Ciências da Saúde Pública e Forenses e Educação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, Porto, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Peleteiro
- EPIUnit-Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Departamento de Ciências da Saúde Pública e Forenses e Educação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, Porto, Portugal
| | - Natália Araújo
- EPIUnit-Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Departamento de Ciências da Saúde Pública e Forenses e Educação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, Porto, Portugal
| | - Teresa Dias
- Instituto Português de Oncologia do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, Porto, Portugal
| | - Filipa Fontes
- EPIUnit-Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Instituto Português de Oncologia do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, Porto, Portugal
| | - Susana Pereira
- EPIUnit-Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Instituto Português de Oncologia do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Lunet
- EPIUnit-Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Departamento de Ciências da Saúde Pública e Forenses e Educação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, Porto, Portugal
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Ameli K, Braun TF, Krämer S. Animal-Assisted Interventions and Animal Welfare-An Exploratory Survey in Germany. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13081324. [PMID: 37106887 PMCID: PMC10135130 DOI: 10.3390/ani13081324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Animals play a crucial role in social occupational fields. The positive effects of animals are described in theory and practice. However, the significance of animal welfare in animal-assisted intervention settings has not yet been extensively researched, so that the aim of this explorative study was to investigate the perception and significance as well as the understanding of animal welfare and its implementation on the part of professionals working with animals. METHODS In the present project, 270 animal-assisted professionals from Germany were interviewed about their individual perceptions of animal welfare and their implementation of animal welfare with the help of questionnaires with closed questions (5-point agreement scale) and open questions. The quantitative data were analyzed using the statistical software SPSS and MS Excel. The qualitative data were analyzed using thematic coding. RESULTS The quantitative and qualitative results show that animal welfare poses high importance for people working in animal-assisted interventions. The structure and design of assignments, animal-related aspects and conditions, and education and knowledge are mentioned as generally relevant conditions for ensuring animal welfare from the perspective of animal-assisted intervention practitioners. In addition, different concrete courses of action to ensure animal welfare are described, which are characterized as stopping or changing the setting at different levels. CONCLUSIONS Animal welfare plays a central role for professionals working with animals. However, further studies are necessary in order to record other animal welfare-relevant aspects in the animal-assisted interventions, depending on the respective animal species, and to examine the implementation of animal welfare-related measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Ameli
- Interdisciplinary Centre for 3Rs in Animal Research (ICAR3R), Justus-Liebig-University, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Theresa F Braun
- Department of Special Education and Inclusive Education, Justus-Liebig-University, 35394 Giessen, Germany
| | - Stephanie Krämer
- Interdisciplinary Centre for 3Rs in Animal Research (ICAR3R), Justus-Liebig-University, 35392 Giessen, Germany
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Applebaum JW, Shieu MM, McDonald SE, Dunietz GL, Braley TJ. The Impact of Sustained Ownership of a Pet on Cognitive Health: A Population-Based Study. J Aging Health 2023; 35:230-241. [PMID: 36006805 DOI: 10.1177/08982643221122641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: To examine associations between sustained ownership of a pet and cognitive outcomes among a national sample of U.S. adults. Methods: Weighted linear mixed models were estimated using the Health and Retirement Study (2010-2016, n = 1369) to compare repeated measures of cognitive function between respondents who endorsed owning a pet in a sustained manner (>5 years), versus those who owned a pet ≤5 years, and non-pet owners. Results: Respondents aged 65+ who owned a pet >5 years demonstrated higher composite cognitive scores, compared to non-pet owners (β = .76, p = .03). Sustained pet ownership was associated with higher immediate (β = .3, p = .02) and delayed (β = .4, p = .007) word recall scores. There were no significant differences in cognitive scores between pet owners and non-owners aged < 65. Discussion: Sustained ownership of a pet could mitigate cognitive disparities in older adults. Further studies are needed to examine potential causal pathways, including physical activity and stress buffering, versus selection effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer W Applebaum
- Department of Sociology and Criminology & Law, 3463University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Monica M Shieu
- Department of Neurology, 1259University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Shelby E McDonald
- Clark-Hill Institute for Positive Youth Development, Department of Psychology, 6889Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | | | - Tiffany J Braley
- Department of Neurology, 1259University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Thompson PsyD MC, Kim PhD AB. Understanding the Experiences of Elderly Bereaved Men and the Bond With Their Pets. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023; 86:1291-1311. [PMID: 33840274 DOI: 10.1177/00302228211004820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this transcendental phenomenological study was to understand the bereaved Older males' experiences with the interaction and ownership of a companion animal after the death of their partner. The primary researcher recruited 13 participants via a criterion-based purposeful sampling method to assure the quality of the information collected. Results revealed six themes: (a) bonds with their pets grew stronger and closer after the loss of their wife; (b) men were able to express their grief to their pets; (c) companion animals helped the men psychologically during grief; (d) pets were influential during times when the wife's presence would have been valuable; (e) companion animals helped men with loneliness and social connection; and (f) companion animals helped men find a new normal by providing a purpose and routine during bereavement. The pets proved to be a source of support for these widowed men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique C Thompson PsyD
- California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International University, San Diego, California, United States
| | - Angela B Kim PhD
- California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International University, San Diego, California, United States
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Żebrowska M, Strohmaier S, Westgarth C, Huttenhower C, Erber AC, Haghayegh S, Eliassen AH, Huang T, Laden F, Hart JE, Rosner B, Kawachi I, Chavarro JE, Okereke OI, Schernhammer ES. Relationship between pet ownership and risk of high depressive symptoms in adolescence and young adulthood. J Affect Disord 2023; 323:554-561. [PMID: 36464093 PMCID: PMC9839520 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.11.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Only few longitudinal studies with high risk of bias have examined relationship between pets and adolescents' mental health. METHODS Our prospective cohort study followed depression-free US adolescents aged 12-18, enrolled in the Growing Up Today Study from pet ownership assessment in 1999 to possible occurrence of high depressive symptoms defined based on the McKnight Risk Factor Survey between 2001 and 2003. Propensity-score-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using generalized estimating equation models. RESULTS Among 9631 adolescents [42.4 % male, mean age 14.9 years (SD 1.6)], we found no association between pet ownership and risk of high depressive symptoms (ORany_pet = 1.14; 95%CI, 0.95-1.38). Stratified analyses revealed no evidence of effect modification by sex, but effect modification by maternal history of depression (depressed mothers ORany_pet = 0.83; 95 % CI: 0.58-1.19, non-depressed mothers ORany_pet = 1.27; 95 % CI: 1.02-1.58; Pintx = 0.03), which differed further by children's sex. Effects were more pronounced among children with a history of childhood abuse (ORany_pet = 0.41 (0.14-1.15); Pintx ≤0.03). No major differences by type of pet owned were observed in any of these analyses. LIMITATIONS Our sample is predominantly white and all are offspring of nurses with a similar academic background which could affect generalizability. CONCLUSIONS Overall, we found no association between pet ownership and depression during adolescence, however subgroup analyses indicated some individuals may benefit from a pet. Future longitudinal studies with more detailed exposure assessments, including pet attachment are needed to further explore the potential of human-animal interaction on mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Żebrowska
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Susanne Strohmaier
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Carri Westgarth
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Curtis Huttenhower
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Astrid C Erber
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Shahab Haghayegh
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - A Heather Eliassen
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tianyi Huang
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Francine Laden
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jaime E Hart
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bernard Rosner
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ichiro Kawachi
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jorge E Chavarro
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Olivia I Okereke
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eva S Schernhammer
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
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Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Multidrug Resistance and Extended-Spectrum β-lactamase Producing E. coli Isolated from Healthy and Diseased Cats. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12020229. [PMID: 36830140 PMCID: PMC9951988 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12020229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Household cats have been identified as potential antimicrobial resistance (AMR) reservoirs, and the extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) producing E. coli circulating among cats has been more frequently reported globally, but the factors linked to its colonization remain poorly understood. Thus, the objectives of this study were to determine E. coli shedding and the occurrence of multidrug resistant (MDR)- and ESBL-producing E. coli, as well as to determine risk factors associated with colonization of MDR and ESBL-producing E. coli isolated from both healthy and diseased cats in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. In a cross-sectional study, 2000 swabs were collected from five anatomical regions (anus, skin, ear canal, nares, and conjunctival sac) of 209 healthy and 191 diseased cats that were admitted to a veterinary clinic in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. In addition, each cat owner filled out a questionnaire about their cat's demographics, management, health status, and antimicrobial usage. E. coli was detected in 165 (41.3%) of all cats, including 59 (28.2%) healthy and 106 (55.5%) diseased cats. In total, 170 E. coli isolates were found in healthy (35.3%) and diseased (64.7%) cats. Susceptibility testing revealed that 123 (72.4%) of the E. coli isolates were resistant to at least one of the tested antimicrobials. Overall, 17.6% (30/170) of E. coli isolates were MDR, with 10 (5.9%) and 20 (11.8%) isolates found in healthy and diseased cats, respectively. However, only 12 (7.1%) E. coli isolates were resistant to cefotaxime and harbored the blaCTX-M gene (ESBL-producer), with seven (4.1%) in healthy and five (2.9%) in diseased cats. Risk factor analysis showed that the odds of MDR and ESBL-producing E. coli were (20 and 17) and (six and eight) times higher when the family and cats were previously treated with antimicrobials, respectively. The presence of a child in the cat's family was also linked to an increased risk of MDR E. coli colonization (OR = 3.4). In conclusion, a high frequency of MDR and ESBL-producing E. coli was detected among healthy and diseased cats in Saudi Arabia, raising concerns about transmission to humans and supporting the need of a "One Health" approach to address the potential threats of cats as AMR reservoirs.
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Rodrigo-Claverol M, Manuel-Canals M, Lobato-Rincón LL, Rodriguez-Criado N, Roman-Casenave M, Musull-Dulcet E, Rodrigo-Claverol E, Pifarré J, Miró-Bernaus Y. Human-Animal Bond Generated in a Brief Animal-Assisted Therapy Intervention in Adolescents with Mental Health Disorders. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13030358. [PMID: 36766247 PMCID: PMC9913319 DOI: 10.3390/ani13030358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human-animal bond is crucial for the proper development of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) sessions. However, in specific cases such as in AAT focused on psychiatric patients who are admitted to acute units, there is only a short period of time available to establish this bond. OBJECTIVES To assess the degree of HAB generated after two AAT sessions in adolescents admitted to acute psychiatry units. METHODS A prospective multicenter cohort study aimed at adolescents aged 13 to 17 years admitted to the acute child and adolescent psychiatry unit of three hospitals. INTERVENTION Two weekly 1 h group sessions of AAT with therapy dogs. MAIN OUTCOME The Center for the Study of Animal Wellness Pet Bonding Scale Survey (CSAWPB). RESULTS One hundred and fourteen adolescents participated. A positive perception of the dog was generated, achieving a good level of bonding and attachment. CONCLUSIONS The results obtained make it possible to affirm that a short period of time is enough to establish a good HAB between patients and therapy dogs. This study aims to contribute to the study of non-pharmacological interventions as a complement to pharmacological treatments in adolescents with mental health disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maylos Rodrigo-Claverol
- Primary Health Care Center Bordeta-Magraners, Catalan Institute of Health, 25001 Lleida, Spain
- Ilerkan Association, 25005 Lleida, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Esther Rodrigo-Claverol
- Ilerkan Association, 25005 Lleida, Spain
- Primary Health Care Center Primer de Maig, Catalan Institute of Health, 25003 Lleida, Spain
| | - Josep Pifarré
- Institute for Biomedical Research in Lleida Dr. Pifarré Foundation (IRBLleida), 25198 Lleida, Spain
- San Juan de Dios Provincia de España, 25001 Lleida, Spain
| | - Yvette Miró-Bernaus
- Primary Health Care Center Bordeta-Magraners, Catalan Institute of Health, 25001 Lleida, Spain
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Taylor JQ, Krieger R, Blanco R, Austin TM, Abramowicz S. Pediatric Dog Bites to the Face May Have Been Less Severe During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Retrospective Cohort Study. J Oral Maxillofac Surg 2023; 81:575-582. [PMID: 36646135 PMCID: PMC9838755 DOI: 10.1016/j.joms.2022.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Pediatric dog bite injuries are one of the most common nonfatal injuries. During the COVID-19 pandemic, children stayed at home more than pre-pandemic. The effect of the pandemic on severity of dog bites to the face in children has not been examined. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency and severity of dog bite injuries to the face in children during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic when compared to the previous year. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted for children with dog bite injuries to the head and neck region who presented to the emergency department at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta from March 2019 to March 2021. The predictor variable was the time of injury, and this was divided into pre-lockdown [control group (March 15, 2019, to March 15, 2020), ie pre-L] and lockdown (March 15, 2019, to March 15, 2020), ie post-L. The outcome variable was severity of dog bite defined as one or more of the following: 1) patient required sedation or general anesthesia for repair, 2) 3 or more regions in the head and neck were involved, and/or 3) surgical consultation took place. The investigators used a two-sample t-test, multivariable linear regression models, and modified analysis of variance and multivariate ANOVA tests to analyze the data (P-value < .05 determined significance). RESULTS 712 children (370 males) with an average age of 6 years old (range, 7 months-18 years) fit the inclusion criteria. There were 381 cases in the pre-L and 331 in the post-L period. There were more cases on average per month pre-L (31.8 cases/month) than post-L (27.6 cases/month) (P-value = .26). There were 183 pre-L surgical consults compared to 75 post-L (48 vs 22.8% of cases, respectively; P-value ≤ .001). There were 52 pre-L cases that had 3 or more sites in the head and neck compared to 28 during the post-L period (P-value = .032). CONCLUSIONS During the COVID-19 pandemic, there may have been a decrease in the severity of dog bite injuries. This trend may demonstrate a consequence that is not a direct result of the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Q. Taylor
- Resident in Training, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA,Address correspondence and reprint requests to DrTaylor: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Building B, Suite 2300, 1365 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Rachel Krieger
- Resident in Training, Pediatrics, Emory Department of Pediatrics, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
| | - Reena Blanco
- Assistant Professor in Emergency Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Associate Medical Director of Emergency Department, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
| | - Thomas M. Austin
- Associate Professor in Anesthesiology and Pediatrics, Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
| | - Shelly Abramowicz
- Associate Professor in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Pediatrics, Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Chief of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
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Giraudet CSE, Liu K, McElligott AG, Cobb M. Are children and dogs best friends? A scoping review to explore the positive and negative effects of child-dog interactions. PeerJ 2022; 10:e14532. [PMID: 36570006 PMCID: PMC9774011 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Personal wellbeing is greatly influenced by our childhood and adolescence, and the relationships formed during those phases of our development. The human-dog bond represents a significant relationship that started thousands of years ago. There is a higher prevalence of dog ownership around the world, especially in households including children. This has resulted in a growing number of researchers studying our interactions with dogs and an expanding evidence base from the exploration of child-dog interactions. We review the potential effects of child-dog interactions on the physical, mental, and social wellbeing of both species. A search of the SCOPUS database identified documents published between January 1980 and April 2022. Filtering for key inclusion criteria, duplicate removals, and inspecting the references of these documents for additional sources, we reviewed a total of 393 documents, 88% of which were scientific articles. We were able to define the numerous ways in which children and dogs interact, be it neutral (e.g., sharing a common area), positive (e.g., petting), or negative (e.g., biting). Then, we found evidence for an association between childhood interaction with dogs and an array of benefits such as increased physical activities, a reduction of stress, and the development of empathy. Nonetheless, several detrimental outcomes have also been identified for both humans and dogs. Children are the most at-risk population regarding dog bites and dog-borne zoonoses, which may lead to injuries/illness, a subsequent fear of dogs, or even death. Moreover, pet bereavement is generally inevitable when living with a canine companion and should not be trivialized. With a canine focus, children sometimes take part in caretaking behaviors toward them, such as feeding or going for walks. These represent opportunities for dogs to relieve themselves outside, but also to exercise and socialize. By contrast, a lack of physical activity can lead to the onset of obesity in both dogs and children. Dogs may present greater levels of stress when in the presence of children. Finally, the welfare of assistance, therapy, and free-roaming dogs who may interact with children remains underexplored. Overall, it appears that the benefits of child-dog interactions outweigh the risks for children but not for dogs; determination of the effects on both species, positive as well as negative, still requires further development. We call for longitudinal studies and cross-cultural research in the future to better understand the impact of child-dog interactions. Our review is important for people in and outside of the scientific community, to pediatricians, veterinarians, and current or future dog owners seeking to extend their knowledge, and to inform future research of scientists studying dogs and human-animal interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire S. E. Giraudet
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kai Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Animal Health Research Centre, Chengdu Research Institute, City University of Hong Kong, Chengdu, China
| | - Alan G. McElligott
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Mia Cobb
- Animal Welfare Science Centre, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Goldstein E, Burns-Nader S, Casper D, Parker J. Exploring the implementation of child life services with facility dogs. J Child Health Care 2022:13674935221146382. [PMID: 36524607 DOI: 10.1177/13674935221146382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Many children's hospitals around the United States have programs in which a trained facility dog goes to work daily with a psychosocial healthcare worker, typically a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS). CCLSs help children and their families cope with the stress of a healthcare experience by utilizing evidence-based, developmentally appropriate interventions. The purpose of this study was to explore how CCLSs incorporate facility dogs into their treatments and gain their perspectives on handling a facility dog. Participants, four CCLSs, completed a checklist, which assessed patients seen by facility dogs for 10 workdays, and a semi-structured interview. Participants primarily saw patients of ages three to five years and aided with general anxiety and coping support. Findings indicated the dog's specific training, therapeutic value, and ability to bond with patients allowed these interactions to be successful and impactful. This study provides information about the benefits of facility dogs for child life programs and presents data for programs that are considering incorporating this therapeutic modality into their services offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Goldstein
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, Graduate Student, 1355University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Sherwood Burns-Nader
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, 8063The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Deborah Casper
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, 8063The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Julie Parker
- School of Human Sciences, 5547Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
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Zookeeper–Animal Bonds and Their Relationship with Conservation Action. JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3040052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Human–animal relationships have been demonstrated to have impacts on animal and keeper welfare, although their impacts on zookeepers have been less studied outside of evaluating job satisfaction. Many zoological facilities are active in supporting conservation initiatives among staff, but current levels of zookeeper engagement in pro-conservation behavior and the motivations behind it are less studied. Some research indicates motivations for pro-environmental action, in general, may include empathetic connections with animals. To investigate connections between zookeeper–animal relationships and conservation participation, 144 zookeepers from various locations participated in an online survey responding to questions about their perception of their relationships with the animals in their care and current conservation participation levels. This study found zookeepers who report bonds with the animals in their care are more likely to participate in select conservation behaviors, such as reducing personal waste, than those who do not claim a bond with animals. Bonds did not predict involvement in larger conservation actions such as habitat restoration or citizen science participation. These findings have implications for how zoos might encourage engagement in pro-conservation behaviors and participation among their staff.
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O'Malley CI, Hubley R, Moody C, Turner PV. Use of nonaversive handling and training procedures for laboratory mice and rats: Attitudes of American and Canadian laboratory animal professionals. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1040572. [PMID: 36570505 PMCID: PMC9780379 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1040572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonaversive or low stress handling techniques can reduce fear and stress in research rodents, ultimately improving study data quality. Uptake of low stress handling has been slow in the USA and Canada. In this study we explored the understanding, experience, and attitudes toward low stress handling of rats and mice in laboratory animal professionals from the USA (US) and Canada (CA). Participants (n = 40) were recruited for a standardized interview and job categories were divided into veterinary/PhD level roles (doctoral level; DL) and non-veterinary/non-PhD level roles (non-doctoral level, NDL) (US: 23, DL: 9, NDL: 14; CA: 17, DL: 8, and NDL: 9). Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using NVIVO. Two research assistants independently coded themes for each question and consolidated responses based on commonality. Laboratory animal professionals understood the benefits of low stress handling and training techniques with rats and mice, stating reduced stress, better data, and improved welfare, with CA participants more likely to mention animal welfare as a benefit, and DL more likely to mention improved research data and reduced stress. Participants across demographic groups indicated improved job satisfaction and decreased stress as the positive impacts low stress handling would have on their positions. The primary perceived barriers to low stress handling implementation were researcher attitudes, the time needed to implement and use these techniques, and training personnel to use the techniques properly and consistently. To promote refinement of handling of rats and mice, more educational opportunities on the benefits and implementation of low stress handling techniques need to be provided to laboratory animal professionals, as well as to researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly I. O'Malley
- Global Animal Welfare and Training, Charles River Laboratories, Wilmington, MA, United States
| | - Raina Hubley
- Global Animal Welfare and Training, Charles River Laboratories, Wilmington, MA, United States
| | - Carly Moody
- Global Animal Welfare and Training, Charles River Laboratories, Wilmington, MA, United States
| | - Patricia V. Turner
- Global Animal Welfare and Training, Charles River Laboratories, Wilmington, MA, United States,Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada,*Correspondence: Patricia V. Turner
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Massányi M, Halo M, Massányi P, Mlyneková E, Greń A, Formicki G, Halo M. Changes in haematological and biochemical parameters in blood serum of horses during exposition to workload stress. Heliyon 2022; 8:e12241. [PMID: 36536901 PMCID: PMC9758420 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e12241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Health state of animals undergoing experimental procedures is an important topic nowadays, as even the small changes can influence the outcome of entire outcomes. Main aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of horse training on variety of blood parameters including mineral profile, energy profile, hepatic profile and haematology. In the experiment, the studied group of horses underwent training programme which consisted of transportation, lounging, riding, jumping, racing, treadmill training and shoeing. Blood samples were collected and later evaluated at the beginning, in the middle and at the end of 1-year lasting process. Our results show multiple significant changes in blood parameters, including changes to multiple minerals, such as Ca, K, Na as well as significant changes of total proteins, urea and certain hepatic profile parameters. Haematology results have also been affected in individual sample collections. Based on results of our study we can state that there have been changes to the internal milieu of the horse but also that there have not been any visible changes of the health status of the animals over the duration of the experiment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marko Halo
- AgroBioTech Research Centre, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Peter Massányi
- Institute of Applied Biology, Slovak University of Agriculepartment of Animal Physiology, Slovak University of Agriculture, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Eva Mlyneková
- Institute of Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Slovak University of Agriculture, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Agnieszka Greń
- Institute of Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Slovak University of Agriculture, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Grzegorz Formicki
- Institute of Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Slovak University of Agriculture, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Marko Halo
- Institute of Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Slovak University of Agriculture, Nitra, Slovak Republic
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Huber A, Klug SJ, Abraham A, Westenberg E, Schmidt V, Winkler AS. Animal-Assisted Interventions Improve Mental, But Not Cognitive or Physiological Health Outcomes of Higher Education Students: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Int J Ment Health Addict 2022:1-32. [PMID: 36406903 PMCID: PMC9666958 DOI: 10.1007/s11469-022-00945-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the high burden of mental health issues among students at higher education institutions world-wide, animal-assisted interventions (AAIs) are being used to relieve student stress. The objective of this study was to systematically review of the effects of AAIs on the mental, physiological, and cognitive outcomes of higher education students. Randomized controlled trials using any unfamiliar animal as the sole intervention tool were included in this review. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias tool. Where possible, effect sizes (Hedges' g) were pooled for individual outcomes using random-effects meta-analyses. Albatross plots were used to supplement the data synthesis. Of 2.494 identified studies, 35 were included. Almost all studies used dogs as the intervention animal. The quality of most included studies was rated as moderate. Studies showed an overall reduction of acute anxiety and stress. For other mental outcomes, studies showed smaller, but nonetheless beneficial effects. Studies showed no clear effect on physiological or cognitive outcomes. Strong methodological heterogeneity between studies limited the ability to draw clear conclusions. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11469-022-00945-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalena Huber
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefanie J. Klug
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Annette Abraham
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Erica Westenberg
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Veronika Schmidt
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Andrea S. Winkler
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Aiding common sense with data. J Vet Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2022.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Equine-Assisted Services: an overview of current scientific contributions on efficacy and outcomes on humans and horses. J Vet Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2022.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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