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Haverbeke A, Uccheddu S, Reinert C, Tertemiz S, Arnouts H, Sannen A. Dose-dependent responses: a preliminary investigation into the olfactory effects of essential oil concentrations on canine behavior. Vet Res Commun 2024:10.1007/s11259-024-10466-1. [PMID: 39066825 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-024-10466-1] [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: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
The positive impact of essential oils (EOs) on stress release has been demonstrated in both humans and dogs. Among the EOs known for their anxiety-reducing properties, including Cananga odorata, Citrus aurantium, Cupressus sempervirens, Lavandula angustifolia, and Litsea citrata, there is a lack of consensus on the optimal concentration for efficacy. This exploratory study sought to investigate the effects of olfactory enrichment with a blend of these EOs on dogs introduced to an unfamiliar environment. The authors sought to determine the minimum concentration required to achieve increased relaxation. In a randomized controlled crossover study design, 54 dogs were exposed to 0, 1, 5, and 10 drops of the EO blend applied to their collars before entering an unfamiliar room with their owners. Behavioral observations were employed to quantify the total duration of activity and relaxation related behaviours for each dog under each treatment condition. A significant difference in panting was identified among the treatments (χ2(3) = 9.88; p = 0.020). Dunn-Bonferroni post-hoc tests revealed a significant reduction in panting during the 10 drops treatment compared to the control treatment (p = 0.047). No significant differences were observed for other behaviors. To provide a comprehensive overview of behavioral tendencies in this canine population, owners also completed the Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ), revealing low scores for anxiety in the study group. These preliminary findings suggest that a concentration of 10 drops of the EO blend on a dog's collar induces increased relaxation, specifically reflected in decreased panting behavior. Lower concentrations did not exhibit a significant relationship with the observed behaviors. These initial findings underscore the importance of exposing dogs to an appropriate concentration of EOs when exploring their potential benefits on welfare among dogs with low anxiety levels. Further research in this area is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the potential benefits of EOs for canine welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anouck Haverbeke
- Salto Research Group, Odisee University of Applied Sciences, Hospitaalstraat 23, Sint-Niklaas, 9100, Belgium.
- Vet Ethology, Leemveldstraat 44, Overijse, 3090, Belgium.
- Department of Morphology, Imaging, Orthopedics, Rehabilitation, and Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, Merelbeke, 9820, Belgium.
| | | | | | | | - Heidi Arnouts
- Salto Research Group, Odisee University of Applied Sciences, Hospitaalstraat 23, Sint-Niklaas, 9100, Belgium
- Department of Engineering Management, University of Antwerp, Prinsstraat 13, Antwerp, 2000, Belgium
| | - Adinda Sannen
- Salto Research Group, Odisee University of Applied Sciences, Hospitaalstraat 23, Sint-Niklaas, 9100, Belgium
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2
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Rivera MM, Meyers-Manor JE. Beware of Strangers: Dogs' Empathetic Response to Unknown Humans. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2130. [PMID: 39061592 PMCID: PMC11274014 DOI: 10.3390/ani14142130] [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: 06/24/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Empathy is a complex cognitive ability that has been studied in many social animals, including dogs. Previous studies have found that dogs would rescue their distressed owner more quickly than a calm owner and that dogs respond physiologically and behaviorally to the sound of crying strangers. However, no studies have explored the empathetic and emotional contagion capabilities of dogs towards strangers in rescue paradigms. In the present study, a stranger was placed behind a clear door and was told to cry (distress) or hum (neutral). The dogs' door opening, stress behaviors, tone of approach, and physiological responses were measured. Dogs did not open more frequently or more quickly for the stranger in the distressed condition compared to the neutral condition. Additionally, there was no significant difference between the behavioral or physiological indicators of stress across conditions. It was also found that non-openers were reported by owners to have more fear and, in the empathy test, were more aggressive and fearful in their tone of approach. These results suggest that dogs may be less likely to exhibit empathy-like behaviors to unknown humans in an unfamiliar environment and that owners may be necessary to moderate a dog's stress to show empathetic behaviors.
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3
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Hecker G, Martineau K, Scheskie M, Hammerslough R, Feuerbacher EN. Effects of single- or pair-housing on the welfare of shelter dogs: Behavioral and physiological indicators. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301137. [PMID: 38865297 PMCID: PMC11168620 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301137] [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: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Dogs are often housed alone in shelter settings to reduce injury and disease spread. However, social isolation can be a stressor for dogs. Prior studies have suggested that cohousing can produce behavioral and physiological benefits. These studies have typically focused on laboratory dogs or shelter dogs that have been kenneled for several months. Thus, those results might not necessarily generalize to shelter dogs, many of which have shorter lengths of stay than those dogs studied to date, and might be cohoused soon after intake. In fact, being pair-housed could, in the short term, be more stressful as dogs have to navigate novel social situations in small spaces. We investigated the behavioral and physiological effects of single- or pair-housing shelter dogs, most of which had recently entered the shelter. We collected behavioral data on 61 dogs (30 single-housed; 31 pair-housed) daily across seven days; we also collected urine for cortisol:creatinine analysis on a subset (22 single-housed; 18 pair-housed) for eight days (each day of the seven-day study plus a baseline sample on Day 0, prior to dogs' enrollment). We found pair-housed dogs engaged in three stress-related behaviors (lip licking, whining, and ears back) significantly less frequently than single-housed dogs. When we analyzed the change in urinary cortisol:creatinine (Days 1-7 values minus Day 0 value), we found that pair-housed dogs generally showed a greater decrease in cortisol:creatinine levels than single-housed dogs. Pair-housed dogs also had significantly shorter lengths of stay, but we did not detect any effect on dog-dog skills. Overall, we found well-matched pair-housing can have both proximate and ultimate welfare benefits for shelter dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Hecker
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Katherine Martineau
- Department of Anthrozoology, Carroll College, Helena, Montana, United States of America
| | - Mariah Scheskie
- Humane Society of Western Montana, Missoula, Montana, United States of America
| | - Rhonda Hammerslough
- Humane Society of Western Montana, Missoula, Montana, United States of America
| | - Erica N. Feuerbacher
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
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Crawley JAH, Nandar H, Zaw HT, Lahdenperä M, Franco dos Santos DJ, Seltmann MW, Brown JL, Goodsell RM, Oo ZM, Htut W, Nyein UK, Aung HH, Lummaa V. Asian elephant calf physiology and mahout perspectives during taming in Myanmar. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2024; 11:231172. [PMID: 38601029 PMCID: PMC11004675 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.231172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
A quarter of Asian elephants are captive, with greater than 90% of these tamed and cared for by handlers (mahouts) in Asia. Although taming is a much-discussed welfare issue, no studies to our knowledge have empirically assessed its impact on calves, and dialogue surrounding taming often lacks perspectives of those involved. Here, we interviewed mahouts involved in taming and monitored five physiological measures (faecal glucocorticoid metabolites (FGMs), serum cortisol, glucose, creatine kinase (CK) and heterophil:lymphocyte (H:L)) over the first 10 days of taming and following six months in 41 calves undergoing taming and 16 control individuals. These measures assess the duration and intensity of stress during taming. Interviews suggested mahouts had major concerns for their safety when discussing changing taming practices, an important consideration for future management. Calf physiological measures were elevated by 50-70% (FGMs/cortisol/glucose), 135% (H:L) and greater than 500% (CK) over the first few days of taming, indicative of elevated stress, not seen to the same extent in control adults. Some measures stabilized sooner (glucose/cortisol/CK/FGM: 7-10 days) than others (H:L: one-two months), indicating mostly acute stress. Our findings inform the welfare of approximately 15 000 captive elephants around the world. Future studies should compare taming in different populations and consider calf and mahout welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hnin Nandar
- Myanma Timber Enterprise, Yangon11011, Myanmar
- Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, , Yunnan650023, People's Republic of China
| | - Htet T. Zaw
- Myanma Timber Enterprise, Yangon11011, Myanmar
| | - Mirkka Lahdenperä
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, Turku20014, Finland
- Department of Public Health, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku20521, Finland
- Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku20521, Finland
| | | | | | - Janine L. Brown
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA22630, USA
| | - Robert M. Goodsell
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, SheffieldS10 2TN, UK
- Naturhistoriska Riksmuseet, Stockholm 4011418, Sweden
| | - Zaw M. Oo
- Myanma Timber Enterprise, Yangon11011, Myanmar
| | - Win Htut
- Myanma Timber Enterprise, Yangon11011, Myanmar
| | - U. K. Nyein
- Myanma Timber Enterprise, Yangon11011, Myanmar
| | | | - Virpi Lummaa
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, Turku20014, Finland
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5
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Flint HE, Weller JE, Parry-Howells N, Ellerby ZW, McKay SL, King T. Evaluation of indicators of acute emotional states in dogs. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6406. [PMID: 38493262 PMCID: PMC10944520 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56859-9] [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: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
A complete assessment of animal welfare requires not just an understanding of negative emotional states, such as fear and anxiety, but also of positive states, such as calmness and happiness. However, few studies have identified accurate and reliable indicators of positive emotional states in dogs. This study aimed to identify parameters that may serve as indicators of short-term emotional states in dogs. Using a cross-over design, 60 dogs living at a research facility were exposed to six different 10-min scenarios expected to elicit responses varying in emotional valence and arousal. A range of behavioural and physiological parameters were collected and their relationship to anticipated emotional valence and arousal was analysed using linear and logistic mixed models. Cortisol, adrenocorticotropic hormone, heart rate variability, panting, whining, and body shake all demonstrated significant differences based on arousal levels, but only within negative valence scenarios. Scores from a qualitative behavioural assessment (QBA) were associated with both emotional valence and arousal and were considered the best indicator of positive valence. Activity, ear temperature, and sitting were associated with positive high arousal, although this may have been influenced by differing levels of movement induced during these scenarios. Meanwhile, heart rate, secretory immunoglobulin A, standing and lying all showed similar changes associated with arousal for both positive and negative valence scenarios. This study provides a critical first step towards identifying evidence-based indicators of short-term emotional states in dogs, while highlighting considerations that should be made when employing these parameters, including the influence of coder bias, food provision, exercise, and external temperature. Overall, it is recommended future dog emotion and welfare research use a combination of parameters including indicators of both emotional valence and arousal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah E Flint
- Waltham Petcare Science Institute, Waltham on the Wolds, LE14 4RT, UK.
| | - Jennifer E Weller
- Waltham Petcare Science Institute, Waltham on the Wolds, LE14 4RT, UK
| | - Nia Parry-Howells
- Waltham Petcare Science Institute, Waltham on the Wolds, LE14 4RT, UK
| | - Zack W Ellerby
- Waltham Petcare Science Institute, Waltham on the Wolds, LE14 4RT, UK
| | - Stephanie L McKay
- Waltham Petcare Science Institute, Waltham on the Wolds, LE14 4RT, UK
| | - Tammie King
- Waltham Petcare Science Institute, Waltham on the Wolds, LE14 4RT, UK
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6
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Savel S, Legou T. The Dog Soundscape: Recurrence, Emotional Impact, Acoustics, and Implications for Dog Observations and Dog-Human Interactions. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:279. [PMID: 38254448 PMCID: PMC10812668 DOI: 10.3390/ani14020279] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
While numerous dog behavioral studies use environmental sounds, the dog soundscape remains undescribed. We proposed a list of 79 sounds classified into six categories: Dog, Dog accessories, Human, city and vehicles, Garden, countryside and weather, and Household. In a survey, 620 dog owners scored the frequency of their dog's exposure to, and thus, the recurrence of, each of the 79 sounds, from never to daily. The survey results also extended to about 25 sounds the number of acknowledged sounds that are likely to elicit stress or fear, that is, negative emotional sensitivity, in dogs. Sound recurrence and emotional sensitivity were not correlated, showing no beneficial effect of frequent exposure to, and no deleterious effect of scarcity of, sound events. We suggest that for the sake of dog welfare, researchers, veterinarians, trainers, and owners may limit dogs' exposure to the sensitive sounds identified in the study during their dog observations and dog-human interactions. A corpus of 84 sounds was collected. The sounds were spectrally analyzed by determining their F0 and 10 dB bandwidth parameters. At the lowest sound frequencies, where canine hearing is poorest, negative emotional sensitivity was generally low. At the middle and high sound center frequencies/F0s, sensitivity greatly varied from lowest to highest, which is incompatible with both the general assumption and dog auditory detection thresholds. How emotional sensitivity relates to F0 (pitch) and hearing sensitivity remains undetermined. Finally, we suggest that future behavioral audiometric studies of dogs may maximize the spectral spread of each sound while minimizing the spectral overlap between sounds so as to reduce both the testing duration and the risk of inadvertently targeting or, conversely, missing frequency-dependent hearing impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Savel
- Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, Centrale Marseille, LMA UMR 7031, Marseille, France
| | - Thierry Legou
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, LPL UMR 7309, Aix-en-Provence, France;
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Leonetti S, Cimarelli G, Hersh TA, Ravignani A. Why do dogs wag their tails? Biol Lett 2024; 20:20230407. [PMID: 38229554 PMCID: PMC10792393 DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2023.0407] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Tail wagging is a conspicuous behaviour in domestic dogs (Canis familiaris). Despite how much meaning humans attribute to this display, its quantitative description and evolutionary history are rarely studied. We summarize what is known about the mechanism, ontogeny, function and evolution of this behaviour. We suggest two hypotheses to explain its increased occurrence and frequency in dogs compared to other canids. During the domestication process, enhanced rhythmic tail wagging behaviour could have (i) arisen as a by-product of selection for other traits, such as docility and tameness, or (ii) been directly selected by humans, due to our proclivity for rhythmic stimuli. We invite testing of these hypotheses through neurobiological and ethological experiments, which will shed light on one of the most readily observed yet understudied animal behaviours. Targeted tail wagging research can be a window into both canine ethology and the evolutionary history of characteristic human traits, such as our ability to perceive and produce rhythmic behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Leonetti
- Comparative Bioacoustics Group, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Cimarelli
- Domestication Lab, Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Taylor A. Hersh
- Comparative Bioacoustics Group, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Marine Mammal Institute, Oregon State University, Newport, OR, USA
| | - Andrea Ravignani
- Comparative Bioacoustics Group, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Center for Music in the Brain, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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8
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Martin AL, Walthers CM, Pattillo MJ, Catchpole JA, Mitchell LN, Dowling EW. Impact of Visual Barrier Removal on the Behavior of Shelter-Housed Dogs. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2023; 26:596-606. [PMID: 35130115 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2021.2021407] [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: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
With millions of dogs housed in shelters each year, it is important to consider how the shelter environment impacts welfare. Social isolation and a lack of control over the environment can negatively impact wellbeing. However, providing social opportunities requires costly resources and can raise concerns about increased barking. In this study, 17 dogs were observed before, during, and after a visual barrier was partially removed to increase the ability to see to other dogs and the surrounding room. Stress behaviors, crate position, and resting behaviors did not differ significantly across phases; however, vocalizations were lower in the visual access and post phases (Friedman's test, p = .02). In addition, in-room barking data (N = 66) revealed no change in barking duration when barriers were removed. This absence of an increase in vocalizations should alleviate some concerns with allowing visual social contact. However, the lack of impact on stress and resting behaviors may indicate that visual social contact alone is insufficient for providing significant welfare benefits and that shelters should prioritize increasing social contact through playgroups or group housing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison L Martin
- Department of Psychological Science, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
| | - Christina M Walthers
- Department of Psychological Science, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
| | - Madison J Pattillo
- Department of Psychological Science, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
| | - Jessica A Catchpole
- Department of Psychological Science, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
| | - Lauren N Mitchell
- Department of Psychological Science, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
| | - Emily W Dowling
- Department of Psychological Science, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
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9
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Griffin KE, Arndt SS, Vinke CM. The Adaptation of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs to the Hierarchy of Dogs' Needs Using a Consensus Building Approach. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2620. [PMID: 37627411 PMCID: PMC10451230 DOI: 10.3390/ani13162620] [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: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
It is crucial for good dog welfare that humans be able to accurately and adequately recognize and meet dogs' needs. However, humans may do a poor job of recognizing dogs' needs due to their tendency to anthropomorphize. The aim of this study was to develop a framework for dogs' needs that would help humans to recognize and meet their actual needs, thereby improving dogs' quality of life. Using the Delphi method, to reach as close to a consensus as possible from an expert panel, Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs was adapted to become the Dogs' Hierarchy of Needs. To do so, the relevant scientific literature was reviewed to identify 37 specific dog needs, which were group into seven need groups. Those groups were then organized onto five need levels, which were as analogous to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs as possible. The expert panel was asked to assess various aspects of the adapted hierarchy in comparison to the original, including face validity, whether they agreed with how the need levels were ordered in terms of importance/priority, and whether they felt that any need groups should be more or less prioritized for any specific dog categories (e.g., senior dogs). After three rounds of expert feedback, there was sufficient consensus for all aspects except items pertaining to the prioritization of any need groups for specific dog categories. That aspect of the adapted hierarchy will need to be readdressed in the next phase of this project: the development of a tool to assess the quality of life of dogs that reside in shelters/rescue organizations and post-adoption once they have been rehomed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen E. Griffin
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Division Animals in Science & Society, Animal Behaviour, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands; (S.S.A.); (C.M.V.)
- The Dog Rehoming Project, Irvine, CA 92604, USA
| | - Saskia S. Arndt
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Division Animals in Science & Society, Animal Behaviour, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands; (S.S.A.); (C.M.V.)
| | - Claudia M. Vinke
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Division Animals in Science & Society, Animal Behaviour, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands; (S.S.A.); (C.M.V.)
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10
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van der Laan JE, Vinke CM, Arndt SS. Sensor-supported measurement of adaptability of dogs (Canis familiaris) to a shelter environment: Nocturnal activity and behavior. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286429. [PMID: 37319231 PMCID: PMC10270336 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286429] [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: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Every shelter dog is faced with the challenge to adapt to a kennel environment. To monitor the welfare of individual shelter dogs, evaluating behavioural and physiological parameters, potentially useful as indicators for adaptability of individual dogs is crucial. Nocturnal activity, i.e. resting patterns, has already been identified as a candidate indicator of adaptability and can be easily measured remotely with the help of sensors. We investigated the usefulness of a 3-axial accelerometer (Actigraph®) to monitor nocturnal activity in shelter dogs every night during the full first two weeks in-shelter starting directly at shelter intake, as a measure of welfare. Additionally, urinary cortisol/creatinine ratio (UCCR), body weight and behaviour data were collected to evaluate stress responses. A control group of pet dogs in homes, matched to the shelter dog group, was also monitored. Shelter dogs had higher nocturnal activity and UCCRs than pet dogs, especially during the first days in the shelter. Nocturnal activity, both accelerometer measures and activity behaviour, and UCCRs decreased over nights in the shelter. Smaller dogs had higher nocturnal activity and UCCRs than larger dogs and showed less autogrooming during the first nights. Dogs with no previous kennel experience had higher nocturnal activity and UCCRs, and showed less body shaking, than dogs with previous kennel experience. Overall, sheltered dogs also showed less body shaking during the first night. The number of dogs showing paw lifting decreased over days. Age class and sex effected only few activity behaviours. Shelter dogs significantly lost body weight after 12 days in the shelter compared to the moment of intake. Shelter dogs had disrupted nocturnal resting patterns and UCCRs compared to pet dogs and seem to partly adapt to the shelter environment after two weeks. Sensor-supported identification of nocturnal activity can be a useful additional tool for welfare assessments in animal shelters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janneke E. van der Laan
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Population Health Sciences, Division of Animals in Science and Society, Animal Behaviour Group, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Claudia M. Vinke
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Population Health Sciences, Division of Animals in Science and Society, Animal Behaviour Group, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia S. Arndt
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Population Health Sciences, Division of Animals in Science and Society, Animal Behaviour Group, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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11
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Novack LI, Schnell-Peskin L, Feuerbacher E, Fernandez EJ. The Science and Social Validity of Companion Animal Welfare: Functionally Defined Parameters in a Multidisciplinary Field. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1850. [PMID: 37889767 PMCID: PMC10251938 DOI: 10.3390/ani13111850] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Social validity refers to the social significance and acceptability of intervention goals, procedures, and outcomes. Animal practitioners, who are often guided by the principles of ABA, lack the benefit of verbal participants (at least with respect to target animals) with which to assess a client's needs and preferences. The study of a learner's welfare is useful for determining areas where intervention is needed or how the learner feels about an intervention that is underway. Three tenets of animal welfare measurement include physiological function, naturalistic behavior, and affect, where affect refers to private events, including emotions, which are a function of the same variables and contingencies responsible for controlling public behavior. The development of new technologies allows us to look "under the skin" and account for subjective experiences that can now be observed objectively. We introduce the reader to tools available from the animal welfare sciences for the objective measurement of social validity from the learner's perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren I. Novack
- Department of Special Education, Hunter College, New York, NY 10022, USA;
| | | | - Erica Feuerbacher
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA;
| | - Eduardo J. Fernandez
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia;
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12
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McDowall S, Hazel SJ, Cobb M, Hamilton-Bruce A. Understanding the Role of Therapy Dogs in Human Health Promotion. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20105801. [PMID: 37239529 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20105801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Dogs may provide humans with a range of physical, mental and social benefits. Whilst there is growing scientific evidence of benefits to humans, there has been less focus on the impact to canine health, welfare and ethical considerations for the dogs. The importance of animal welfare is increasingly acknowledged, indicating that the Ottawa Charter should be extended to include the welfare of non-human animals supporting the promotion of human health. Therapy dog programmes are delivered across a variety of settings including hospitals, aged care facilities and mental health services, highlighting the important role they play in human health outcomes. Research has shown that that there are biomarkers for stress in humans and other animals engaged in human-animal interactions. This review aims to assess the impact of human-animal interactions on therapy dogs engaged in providing support to human health. While challenging, it is paramount to ensure that, within the framework of One Welfare, the welfare of therapy dogs is included, as it is a key factor for future sustainability. We identified a range of concerns due to the lack of guidelines and standards to protect the wellbeing of the dogs engaged in these programmes. Extension of the Ottawa Charter to include the welfare of non-human animals with leveraging through a One Welfare approach would promote animal and human health beyond current boundaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonya McDowall
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, Roseworthy Campus, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
| | - Susan J Hazel
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, Roseworthy Campus, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
| | - Mia Cobb
- Animal Welfare Science Centre, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Anne Hamilton-Bruce
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
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Tavares IT, Rivero R, Sales‐Luís JP, Vaudano CG, Correia SD, Corbera JA, Jaber JR. Premedication with acetazolamide: Is its use for postoperative pain and stress control after laparoscopic ovariectomy in dogs ruled out? Vet Med Sci 2023; 9:1114-1123. [PMID: 36952262 PMCID: PMC10188092 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1115] [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: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies in human medicine have concluded that acetazolamide reduces pain associated with carbon dioxide insufflation during laparoscopic surgery. However, there are no published reports regarding the use of acetazolamide for this purpose in companion animals, despite the increasing popularity of laparoscopic techniques in veterinary medicine due to their advantages over open surgeries. OBJECTIVES Thirty mixed-breed female dogs were included in the study and randomly assigned to one of three groups: OVE (median celiotomy ovariectomy; n = 10), OVEL (laparoscopic ovariectomy, n = 10) and OVELA (laparoscopic ovariectomy with acetazolamide preoperative administration; n = 10). Experienced surgeons performed all procedures, and the anaesthetic and analgesic protocols were identical for all animals. Acetazolamide was administered orally (at a dose of 25 mg/kg) 2 h prior to induction in the OVELA group. Postoperative pain was evaluated using serum cortisol, salivary cortisol, and the University of Melbourne Pain Scale (UMPS) Score. RESULTS Any statistical differences were observed in the UMPS scores when the OVELA group was compared to the OVEL group at 1 h after surgery (p = 0.515), 12 h (p = 0.375) and 24 h (p = 0.242). Animals undergoing open surgery (OVE group) had significantly higher pain scores at all times after surgery when compared with OVEL and OVELA groups. A high positive correlation (r = 0.792; p = 0.01) was found between serum and saliva cortisol concentrations. Mean saliva cortisol concentration was not significantly lower for the OVELA group compared to the other groups. CONCLUSIONS This study found evidence that preoperative administration of acetazolamide may be beneficial in managing postoperative pain in dogs after laparoscopic surgeries. However, further research with a larger sample size is needed to confirm this and to determine if acetazolamide should be included in a multimodal postoperative analgesia protocol for laparoscopic ovariectomy in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês T. Tavares
- Faculty of Veterinary MedicineLusófona UniversityLisbonPortugal
| | - Ramón Rivero
- Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversidad Autónoma de Ciudad JuárezCiudad JuarezMéxico
| | - José P. Sales‐Luís
- Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversidade de LisboaAvenida da Universidade TécnicaLisbonPortugal
| | | | - Sérgio D. Correia
- COPELABSDepartamento de ArquiteturaUniversidade Lusofóna de Humanidades e TecnologiasLisbonPortugal
- VALORIZACentro de Investigação para a Valorização de Recursos EndógenosPolytechnic Institute of PortalegrePortalegrePortugal
| | - Juan Alberto Corbera
- Hospital Clínico Veterinario ULPGCFacultad de VeterinariaInstituto Universitario de Investigaciones Biomédicas y SanitariasUniversidad de Las Palmas de Gran CanariaArucasSpain
| | - Jose Raduan Jaber
- Facultad de VeterinariaDepartamento de MorfologíaUniversidad de Las Palmas de Gran CanariaArucasSpain
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Fonseca MGB, Hilário HO, Kotrschal K, Range F, Virányi Z, Duarte MHL, Pereira LCG, Vasconcellos ADS. The Power of Discourse: Associations between Trainers' Speech and the Responses of Socialized Wolves and Dogs to Training. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1071. [PMID: 36978612 PMCID: PMC10044238 DOI: 10.3390/ani13061071] [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: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In a previous study, we found that Positive Reinforcement Training reduced cortisol of wolves and dogs; however, this effect varied across trainer-animal dyads. Here we investigate whether and how the trainers' use of speech may contribute to this effect. Dogs' great interest in high-pitched, intense speech (also known as Dog Directed Speech) has already been reported, but whether and how wolves respond similarly/differently to voice characteristics has never been studied before. We analyzed 270 training sessions, conducted by five trainers, with nine mixed-breed dogs and nine wolves, all human-socialized. Through Generalized Linear Mixed Models, we analyzed the effects of (a) three speech categories (nice, neutral, reprehensive) and laugh; and (b) acoustic characteristics of trainers' voices on animals' responses (correct responses, latency, orientation, time at less than 1 m, non-training behaviors, tail position/movements, cortisol variation). In both subspecies, tail wagging occurred more often in sessions with longer durations of nice speech, and less often in sessions with reprehensive speech. For dogs, the duration of reprehensive speech within a session was also negatively related to correct responses. For wolves, retreat time was associated with more reprehensive speech, whereas duration of nice speech was positively associated with time spent within one meter from the trainer. In addition, most dog behavioral responses were associated with higher average intonations within sessions, while wolf responses were correlated with lower intonations within sessions. We did not find any effects of the variables considered on cortisol variation. Our study highlights the relevance of voice tone and speech in a training context on animals' performances and emotional reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Gabriela Bravo Fonseca
- Program of Post-Graduation in Vertebrate Biology, Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 30535-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Heron Oliveira Hilário
- Laboratory of Conservation Genetics, Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 30535-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Kurt Kotrschal
- Department of Behavioural and Cognitive Biology, University of Vienna, 1010 Vienna, Austria
| | - Friederike Range
- Domestication Lab, Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Savoyenstraße 1a, 1160 Vienna, Austria
| | - Zsófia Virányi
- Messerli Research Institute—University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University of Vienna, University of Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Marina Henriques Lage Duarte
- Program of Post-Graduation in Vertebrate Biology, Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 30535-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Bioacoustics Laboratory, Museum of Natural Sciences, Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 30535-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Laryssa Cristina Gomes Pereira
- Program of Post-Graduation in Vertebrate Biology, Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 30535-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Angélica da Silva Vasconcellos
- Program of Post-Graduation in Vertebrate Biology, Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 30535-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Foltin S, Glenk LM. Current Perspectives on the Challenges of Implementing Assistance Dogs in Human Mental Health Care. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10010062. [PMID: 36669063 PMCID: PMC9867308 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10010062] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of mental health disorders, driven by current global crises, is notably high. During the past decades, the popularity of dogs assisting humans with a wide spectrum of mental health disorders has significantly increased. Notwithstanding these dogs' doubtless value, research on their legal status, certification processes, training and management practices, as well as their welfare status, has been scarce. This scoping review highlights that in contrast to other assistance dogs such as guide dogs, there exists no consistent terminology to mark dogs that assist humans with impaired mental health. Legal authorities monitoring the accreditation process, training and tracking of mental health supporting dogs are broadly lacking, with only few exceptions. This review emphasizes the need to address several topics in the promotion of progress in legal and welfare issues related to assistance dogs as well as emotional support dogs for humans with a mental health disorder. The current body of knowledge was assessed in three different areas of focus: (1) the legal dimension including definitions and certification processes; (2) the dimension of performed tasks; and (3) the dog welfare dimension including aspects of the relationship with the handler and risks associated with children recipients. Considering the challenges associated with a mental health diagnosis, collaborations of dog provider organizations and health care professionals would be desirable to continuously assess the efficiency of the human-dog dyad regarding their overall compatibility, general satisfaction and mutual well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Foltin
- Department of Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45141 Essen, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Lisa Maria Glenk
- Comparative Medicine, The Interuniversity Messerli Research Institute of the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
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Burkhard ME, Range F, Ward SJ, Robinson LM. Bonded by nature: Humans form equally strong and reciprocated bonds with similar raised dogs and wolves. Front Psychol 2023; 13:1044940. [PMID: 36687982 PMCID: PMC9846132 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1044940] [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: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction To explore human-canid relationships, we tested similarly socialized and raised dogs (Canis familiaris) and wolves (Canis lupus) and their trainers in a wildlife park. The aims of our study were twofold: first, we aimed to test which factors influenced the relationships that the trainers formed with the dogs or wolves and second, we investigated if the animals reacted to the trainers in accordance with the trainers' perceptions of their relationship. Methods To achieve these goals, we assessed the relationships using a human-animal bonds survey, which the trainers used to rate the bonds between themselves and their peers with the canids, and by observing dyadic trainer-canid social interactions. Results Our preliminary results given the small sample size and the set-up of the research center, demonstrate that our survey was a valid way to measure these bonds since trainers seem to perceive and agree on the strength of their bonds with the animals and that of their fellow trainers. Moreover, the strength of the bond as perceived by the trainers was mainly predicted by whether or not the trainer was a hand-raiser of the specific animal, but not by whether or not the animal was a wolf or a dog. In the interaction test, we found that male animals and animals the trainers felt more bonded to, spent more time in proximity of and in contact with the trainers; there was no difference based on species. Discussion These results support the hypothesis that wolves, similarly to dogs, can form close relationships with familiar humans when highly socialized (Canine Cooperation Hypothesis). Moreover, as in other studies, dogs showed more submissive behaviors than wolves and did so more with experienced than less experienced trainers. Our study suggests that humans and canines form differentiated bonds with each other that, if close, are independent of whether the animal is a wolf or dog.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megane E. Burkhard
- Domestication Lab, Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Friederike Range
- Domestication Lab, Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria,*Correspondence: Friederike Range,
| | - Samantha J. Ward
- School of Animal Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Lauren M. Robinson
- Domestication Lab, Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria,Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States,Language Research Center, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States,Lauren M. Robinson,
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Romaniuk AC, Diana A, Barnard S, Weller JE, Espinosa UB, Dangoudoubiyam S, Shreyer T, Arnott G, Croney C. The Effect of Transportation on Puppy Welfare from Commercial Breeding Kennels to a Distributor. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12233379. [PMID: 36496902 PMCID: PMC9737031 DOI: 10.3390/ani12233379] [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: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Many puppies from commercial breeding kennels (CBKs) are transported by ground from their kennels of origin to a distributor. This experience may elicit fear and stress during a sensitive developmental period, which may in turn negatively impact the puppies’ short- and long-term welfare. This study aimed to measure short-term effects of transportation on puppy welfare metrics. Eight-week-old puppies (n = 383) from 12 CBKs were tested at their kennels (pre-trans) and ~48 h after arriving at a distributor (post-trans). At each location, puppies underwent an isolation test, a stranger-approach test, and a physical health assessment. Behavioral responses to testing were scored from videos. Fecal glucocorticoid metabolites (FGM), fecal secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), and presence of intestinal parasites were also analyzed. Linear mixed-effects models identified decreased exploration (p < 0.001), and increased locomotion (p < 0.001) and escape attempts (p = 0.001) during the post-trans isolation test. Increased affiliative behavior (p < 0.001), FGM (p < 0.001) and sIgA (p = 0.014) were also observed post-trans. Findings support good physical health both pre- and post-trans, while behavioral and physiological changes suggest increased puppy distress post-trans. Higher post-transport affiliative behavior may indicate that puppies sought social support as a coping strategy after experiencing transport-related distress. Future studies should explore the efficacy of transportation-related interventions to mitigate puppy distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aynsley C. Romaniuk
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, 725 Harrison Street, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Alessia Diana
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, 725 Harrison Street, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
| | - Shanis Barnard
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, 725 Harrison Street, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
| | - Jennifer E. Weller
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, 725 Harrison Street, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
- Animal Welfare Unit—Livestock Production Sciences Branch, Sustainable Agri-Food Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, Hillsborough BT26 6DR, UK
| | | | - Sriveny Dangoudoubiyam
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, 725 Harrison Street, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
| | - Traci Shreyer
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, 725 Harrison Street, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
| | - Gareth Arnott
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Candace Croney
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, 725 Harrison Street, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
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Uccheddu S, Miklósi Á, Gintner S, Gácsi M. Comparing Pears to Apples: Unlike Dogs, Cats Need Habituation before Lab Tests. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12213046. [PMID: 36359170 PMCID: PMC9657355 DOI: 10.3390/ani12213046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Comparative studies can help us better understand our family pets’ social and cognitive behaviours and gain more insights in the evolution of some human abilities. However, the comparison of the behaviours of cats and dogs in a standard laboratory environment is not without challenges. Though recently they play a similar role in modern Western societies as pets, both their evolutionary history and individual experiences are different. We tested the spontaneous behaviour of companion cats and dogs in the same novel laboratory environment, and if needed, we tried to habituate them in the presence of their owners and an unfamiliar experimenter. To pass the habituation test, subjects were expected to play with the experimenter or accept food from them. All dogs passed the test on the first occasion, while almost 60% of the cats needed habituation and some could not reach the criteria even after three habituation sessions. More experienced cats (which had the opportunity to meet strangers and explore unfamiliar places) were not more successful, in fact, younger cats passed more easily. We found marked differences between dogs and cats in all behavioural variables; compared to dogs, cats spent more time crouching and close to their box, while less time exploring or close to the owner. Our findings are important not only regarding the test methods of cats and the interpretation of their data collected in the laboratory so far but, in a more general sense, on developing future comparative experiments. Abstract Research on the socio-cognitive skills of different species often benefit from comparative experiments, however, the ecology of the species and development of the individuals may differently determine how they react to the same test situation. In this study, our aims were twofold: to observe and compare the spontaneous behaviour of companion cats and dogs in the same novel environment, and to habituate them (if needed) to the novel environment in the presence of their owners and an unfamiliar experimenter. The behaviour of 62 family cats, 31 experienced (which had the opportunity to meet strangers and explore unfamiliar places) and 31 inexperienced cats, and 27 family dogs was compared in an unfamiliar room. The subjects’ behaviour was coded during the first five minutes in the presence of two passive persons, their owners, and an unfamiliar experimenter. Then, based on a set of rules, first the owner, and then the experimenter tried to initiate interactions with the subjects and the subjects’ willingness to interact was evaluated. To pass the habituation test, subjects were expected to play with the experimenter or accept food from them. All dogs passed the test on the first occasion, while almost 60% of the cats failed. The cats’ experience did not play a significant role, in fact, younger cats passed more easily. We found marked differences between dogs and cats in all behavioural variables; compared to dogs, cats spent more time crouching and close to their box, while less time exploring or close to the owner. We did not find a difference in the cats’ behaviour based on their experience. Our results support the hypothesis that unlike dogs, cats need extensive habituation in a novel environment. This could partially be explained by the difference in the ecology and/or domestication process of the species, although developmental effects cannot be excluded. Our findings have fundamental consequences not only for the considerations of the testability of cats and on the interpretation of their data collected in the laboratory, but in a more general sense on developing comparative experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Uccheddu
- MTA-ELTE Comparative Ethology Research Group, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ádám Miklósi
- MTA-ELTE Comparative Ethology Research Group, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Sarolt Gintner
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Márta Gácsi
- MTA-ELTE Comparative Ethology Research Group, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
- Correspondence:
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20
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Effects of a Novel Gel Formulation of Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP) on Behavioral and Physiological Stress Responses in Dogs Undergoing Clinical Examination. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12182472. [PMID: 36139333 PMCID: PMC9495187 DOI: 10.3390/ani12182472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Safeguarding the health of dogs presupposes undergoing regular veterinary visits (VVs). However, the VV can be emotionally challenging, thus impairing the welfare of the patient, also reducing dog and owner compliance. The fear and anxiety experienced by the dogs evokes behavioral and physiological stress responses for adaptive purposes. It is therefore desirable to lower the stress from the visit. With this intent, we tested a gel formulation of a synthetic analogue of the appeasing pheromone secreted by bitches, the dog appeasing pheromone (DAP), as a situational support to improve the perception of the stay in the waiting room and the physical examination. In the waiting room, the dogs exposed to DAP exhibited changes in their behavior, namely significant decrease in lip licking, increase in panting, and nearly significant reduction of low body postures. On the examination table, neither behavioral nor physiological differences were found. DAP did not alter markedly the stress behavior and physiology of dogs during a VV, maybe due to a stress level exceeding the potential efficacy of the product. However, the change of a few stress-associated behaviors suggests that DAP could contribute to improving the welfare of dogs staying in the waiting room before the physical examination. Abstract The veterinary visit is necessary for safeguarding the health of dogs, but it can be stressful and threaten both the welfare of the patient and the accuracy of the examination. This randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study aims at evaluating how dog appeasing pheromone (DAP) in a novel gel formulation influences the behavioral and physiological stress responses of 28 dogs undergoing a standardized clinical examination, while staying in the waiting room (WR) and visited in the examination room (ER). Behavioral responses were studied through behavioral categories and subjective scales (WR and ER). Autonomic response considered heart rate (WR and ER), blood pressure (WR and ER), respiratory rate (ER), and rectal temperature (ER). Neuroendocrine response considered salivary cortisol (WR and ER). In the waiting room, the use of DAP was associated with a significant reduction of lip licking (p = 0.0189), an increase in panting (p = 0.0276), and a reduction close to significance (p = 0.0584) of low body postures. No significant differences were observed within the physiological responses. In the examination room, neither behavioral nor physiological differences were found.
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Marcato M, Kenny J, O’Riordan R, O’Mahony C, O’Flynn B, Galvin P. Assistance dog selection and performance assessment methods using behavioural and physiological tools and devices. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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22
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Edwards PT, Smith BP, McArthur ML, Hazel SJ. Puppy pedicures: Exploring the experiences of Australian dogs to nail trims. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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23
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Grigg EK, Liu S, Dempsey DG, Wong K, Bain M, Sollers JJ, Haddock R, Kogan LR, Barnhard JA, Tringali AA, Thigpen AP, Hart LA. Assessing the Relationship Between Emotional States of Dogs and Their Human Handlers, Using Simultaneous Behavioral and Cardiac Measures. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:897287. [PMID: 35898554 PMCID: PMC9310693 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.897287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Negative stress due to human handling has been reported for a number of domestic animals, including dogs. Many companion dogs display significant stress during routine care in the veterinary clinic, risking injury to staff and potentially compromising the quality of care that these dogs receive. On the other hand, positive interactions with humans can have a beneficial effect on dogs, particularly in stressful situations such as animal shelters. Research has shown that dogs can detect human emotions through visual, auditory, and chemical channels, and that dogs will exhibit emotional contagion, particularly with familiar humans. This study investigated relationships between emotional states of dogs and unfamiliar human handlers, using simultaneous measures of cardiac activity and behavior, during two sessions of three consecutive routine handling sets. Measures of cardiac activity included mean heart rate (HRmean), and two measures of heart rate variability (HRV): the root mean square of successive differences between normal heartbeats (RMSSD); and the high frequency absolute power component of HRV, log transformed (HFlog). We also assessed human handlers' emotional state during handling sessions following an intervention designed to reduce stress, compared with sessions conducted on a different day and following a control activity. Polar H10 cardiac sensors were used to simultaneously record cardiac activity for both canine and human participants, and behavioral data were collected via digital video. The strongest influence on the dogs' stress levels in our study was found to be increasing familiarity with the setting and the handler; HRmean and SI decreased, and HRV (as RMSSD) increased, significantly from the first to the third handling set. Canine HRV (as HFlog) was also highest in set 3, although the difference was not statistically significant. There were no strong patterns found in the human cardiac data across handling set, session, or by pre-handling activity. We did not find consistent support for emotional contagion between the dogs and their handlers in this study, perhaps due to the brief time that the dogs spent with the handlers. Recommendations for application to dog handling, and limitations of our methods, are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma K. Grigg
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Emma K. Grigg
| | - Serene Liu
- Graduate Group in Epidemiology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | | | - Kylee Wong
- Animal Biology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Melissa Bain
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - John J. Sollers
- Department of Psychology, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Rani Haddock
- Department of Psychology, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Lori R. Kogan
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - Jennifer A. Barnhard
- Bergin University of Canine Studies, Penngrove, CA, United States
- Equine Medical Emergency, Critical Care and Neonatology Service, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Ashley A. Tringali
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Abigail P. Thigpen
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Lynette A. Hart
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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Audience effect on domestic dogs' behavioural displays and facial expressions. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9747. [PMID: 35697913 PMCID: PMC9192729 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13566-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study we investigated the influence of positive and negative arousal situations and the presence of an audience on dogs’ behavioural displays and facial expressions. We exposed dogs to positive anticipation, non-social frustration and social frustration evoking test sessions and measured pre and post-test salivary cortisol concentrations. Cortisol concentration did not increase during the tests and there was no difference in pre or post-test concentrations in the different test conditions, excluding a different level of arousal. Displacement behaviours of “looking away” and “sniffing the environment” occurred more in the frustration-evoking situations compared to the positive anticipation and were correlated with cortisol concentrations. “Ears forward” occurred more in the positive anticipation condition compared to the frustration-evoking conditions, was positively influenced by the presence of an audience, and negatively correlated to the pre-test cortisol concentrations, suggesting it may be a good indicator of dogs’ level of attention. “Ears flattener”, “blink”, “nose lick”, “tail wagging” and “whining” were associated with the presence of an audience but were not correlated to cortisol concentrations, suggesting a communicative component of these visual displays. These findings are a first step to systematically test which subtle cues could be considered communicative signals in domestic dogs.
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Extreme life histories are associated with altered social behavior and cortisol levels in shelter dogs. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105693] [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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Somppi S, Törnqvist H, Koskela A, Vehkaoja A, Tiira K, Väätäjä H, Surakka V, Vainio O, Kujala MV. Dog–Owner Relationship, Owner Interpretations and Dog Personality Are Connected with the Emotional Reactivity of Dogs. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12111338. [PMID: 35681804 PMCID: PMC9179432 DOI: 10.3390/ani12111338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The relationship between owner and the dog affects the dog’s attachment behaviors and stress coping. In turn, the quality of the relationship may affect owner’s interpretations about their dog’s behavior. Here, we assessed dogs’ emotional responses from heart rate variability and behavioral changes during five different situations. Dog owners evaluated the emotion (valence and arousal) of their dog after each situation. We found that both negative and positive incidents provoked signs of emotional arousal in dogs. Owners detected the dog’s arousal especially during fear- and stress-evoking situations. The dog–owner relationship did not affect owners’ interpretation of dogs’ emotion. However, the dog–owner relationship was reflected in the dog’s emotional reactions. Close emotional bond with the owner appeared to decrease the arousal of the dogs. Dog owners’ frequent caregiving of their dog was associated with increased attachment behaviors and heightened arousal of dogs. Owners rated the disadvantages of the dog relationship higher for the dogs that were less owner-oriented and less arousable. Dog’s arousal may provoke dog’s need to seek human attention, which in turn may promote the development of emotional bond. Abstract We evaluated the effect of the dog–owner relationship on dogs’ emotional reactivity, quantified with heart rate variability (HRV), behavioral changes, physical activity and dog owner interpretations. Twenty nine adult dogs encountered five different emotional situations (i.e., stroking, a feeding toy, separation from the owner, reunion with the owner, a sudden appearance of a novel object). The results showed that both negative and positive situations provoked signs of heightened arousal in dogs. During negative situations, owners’ ratings about the heightened emotional arousal correlated with lower HRV, higher physical activity and more behaviors that typically index arousal and fear. The three factors of The Monash Dog–Owner Relationship Scale (MDORS) were reflected in the dogs’ heart rate variability and behaviors: the Emotional Closeness factor was related to increased HRV (p = 0.009), suggesting this aspect is associated with the secure base effect, and the Shared Activities factor showed a trend toward lower HRV (p = 0.067) along with more owner-directed behaviors reflecting attachment related arousal. In contrast, the Perceived Costs factor was related to higher HRV (p = 0.009) along with less fear and less owner-directed behaviors, which may reflect the dog’s more independent personality. In conclusion, dogs’ emotional reactivity and the dog–owner relationship modulate each other, depending on the aspect of the relationship and dogs’ individual responsivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanni Somppi
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 57, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; (H.T.); (A.K.); (K.T.); (O.V.); (M.V.K.)
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35, FI-40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
- Correspondence:
| | - Heini Törnqvist
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 57, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; (H.T.); (A.K.); (K.T.); (O.V.); (M.V.K.)
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35, FI-40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Aija Koskela
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 57, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; (H.T.); (A.K.); (K.T.); (O.V.); (M.V.K.)
| | - Antti Vehkaoja
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, P.O. Box 692, FI-33101 Tampere, Finland;
| | - Katriina Tiira
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 57, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; (H.T.); (A.K.); (K.T.); (O.V.); (M.V.K.)
| | - Heli Väätäjä
- Research Group for Emotions, Sociality, and Computing, Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, P.O. Box 100, FI-33014 Tampere, Finland;
- Master School, Lapland University of Applied Sciences, Jokiväylä 11 B, FI-96300 Rovaniemi, Finland;
| | - Veikko Surakka
- Master School, Lapland University of Applied Sciences, Jokiväylä 11 B, FI-96300 Rovaniemi, Finland;
| | - Outi Vainio
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 57, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; (H.T.); (A.K.); (K.T.); (O.V.); (M.V.K.)
| | - Miiamaaria V. Kujala
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 57, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; (H.T.); (A.K.); (K.T.); (O.V.); (M.V.K.)
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35, FI-40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
- Department of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, Aalto University School of Science, P.O. Box 12200, FI-00076 Aalto, Finland
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Effect of human-dog interaction on therapy dog stress during an on-campus student stress buster event. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Edwards P, Smith B, McArthur M, Hazel S. At the heart of a dog's veterinary experience: Heart rate responses in dogs vary across a standard physical examination. J Vet Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2022.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Kim SA, Borchardt MR, Lee K, Stelow EA, Bain MJ. Effects of trazodone on behavioral and physiological signs of stress in dogs during veterinary visits: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2022; 260:876-883. [PMID: 35333743 DOI: 10.2460/javma.20.10.0547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether a single dose of trazodone administered to dogs before a veterinary visit reduced their behavioral and physiologic signs of stress and owners' stress during veterinary visits. SAMPLE 20 dogs and their owners. PROCEDURES In this randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial, dogs with a history of anxiety during veterinary visits were scheduled for 2 veterinary visits 1 week apart and randomly assigned to receive a single oral dose of either trazodone (9 to 12 mg/kg) or a placebo 90 minutes before transport to the veterinary clinic for alternate visits between September 21 and November 3, 2019. For each visit, we collected and assessed owner-completed surveys of dog stress score (DSS) and owner stress score; various investigator-reported scores, including from video-recorded behavior analyses; and patient-related physiologic data. RESULTS Dogs treated with trazodone versus placebo had lower mean DSSs, assessed by owners for physical examination and assessed by video analysis for time spent in the examination room; lower mean SD of normal-to-normal intervals, root mean square of successive heartbeat interval difference, and respiratory rate; and higher mean heart rate. No meaningful differences were observed in other behavioral or physiologic outcomes, including serum cortisol concentrations. CLINICAL RELEVANCE A single dose of trazodone before transport reduced signs of stress during veterinary visits for dogs in the present study and may be useful as an anti-anxiety medication for similarly affected dogs, potentially resulting in higher-quality clinical examinations and improved patient welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-A Kim
- 1Clinical Animal Behavior Service, Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Korea
| | - Michelle R Borchardt
- 2William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Kyuyoung Lee
- 3Department of Veterinary Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Elizabeth A Stelow
- 2William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Melissa J Bain
- 3Department of Veterinary Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
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Effect of cooperative care training on physiological parameters and compliance in dogs undergoing a veterinary examination – a pilot study. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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31
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Menor-Campos DJ, Williams JM, Gazzano A, Mariti C. Student veterinarians’ ability to recognise behavioural signs of stress in dogs. J Vet Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Montgomery TM, Greenberg JR, Gunson JL, John K, Laubach ZM, Nonnamaker E, Person ES, Rogers H, Ronis EM, Smale L, Steinfield KR, Strong R, Holekamp KE, Beehner JC. Measuring salivary cortisol in wild carnivores. Horm Behav 2022; 137:105082. [PMID: 34798449 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2021.105082] [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] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Salivary hormone analyses provide a useful alternative to fecal and urinary hormone analyses in non-invasive studies of behavioral endocrinology. Here, we use saliva to assess cortisol levels in a wild population of spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta), a gregarious carnivore living in complex social groups. We first describe a novel, non-invasive method of collecting saliva from juvenile hyenas and validate a salivary cortisol assay for use in this species. We then analyze over 260 saliva samples collected from nearly 70 juveniles to investigate the relationships between cortisol and temporal and social variables in these animals. We obtain some evidence of a bimodal daily rhythm with salivary cortisol concentrations dropping around dawn and dusk, times at which cub activity levels are changing substantially. We also find that dominant littermates have lower cortisol than singleton juveniles, but that cortisol does not vary with age, sex, or maternal social rank. Finally, we examine how social behaviors such as aggression or play affect salivary cortisol concentrations. We find that inflicting aggression on others was associated with lower cortisol concentrations. We hope that the detailed description of our methods provides wildlife researchers with the tools to measure salivary cortisol in other wild carnivores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy M Montgomery
- Michigan State University, Department of Integrative Biology and Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, 288 Farm Lane, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; Mara Hyena Project, Kenya; Max Planck Institute for Animal Behavior, Department for the Ecology of Animal Societies, Bücklestraße 5a, 78467 Konstanz, Germany.
| | - Julia R Greenberg
- Michigan State University, Department of Integrative Biology and Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, 288 Farm Lane, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; Mara Hyena Project, Kenya; University of Wisconsin-Madison, Department of Psychology, 1202 West Johnson Street, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Jessica L Gunson
- Mara Hyena Project, Kenya; New York University, Department of Anthropology, 25 Waverly Place, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | | | - Zachary M Laubach
- Michigan State University, Department of Integrative Biology and Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, 288 Farm Lane, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; Mara Hyena Project, Kenya; University of Colorado Boulder, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, 1900 Pleasant Street, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Emily Nonnamaker
- Mara Hyena Project, Kenya; University of Notre Dame, Department of Biological Sciences, 175 Galvin Life Sciences Center, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
| | - Erin S Person
- Mara Hyena Project, Kenya; University of California Berkeley, Department of Integrative Biology, 3040 Valley Life Sciences Building, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Heidi Rogers
- Mara Hyena Project, Kenya; University of California Santa Cruz, Department of Statistical Science, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | | | - Laura Smale
- Michigan State University, Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, 316 Physics Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Katherine R Steinfield
- Mara Hyena Project, Kenya; University College London, Division of Biosciences, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | | | - Kay E Holekamp
- Michigan State University, Department of Integrative Biology and Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, 288 Farm Lane, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; Mara Hyena Project, Kenya
| | - Jacinta C Beehner
- University of Michigan, Department of Psychology, 530 Church Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; University of Michigan, Department of Anthropology, 1085 South University Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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Girault C, Priymenko N, Helsly M, Duranton C, Gaunet F. Dog behaviours in veterinary consultations: Part 1. Effect of the owner’s presence or absence. Vet J 2022; 280:105788. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2022.105788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Arcuri GB, Pantoja MHDA, Titto CG, Martins DDS. Preliminary analysis of reproductive, behavioral and physiological characteristics of military working dogs. Anim Reprod 2022; v19:e20210092. [PMID: 35251355 PMCID: PMC8893309 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2021-0092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Helsly M, Priymenko N, Girault C, Duranton C, Gaunet F. Dog behaviours in veterinary consultations: Part II. The relationship between the behaviours of dogs and their owners. Vet J 2022; 281:105789. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2022.105789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Effects of Positive Reinforcement Training and Novel Object Exposure on Salivary Cortisol Levels under Consideration of Individual Variation in Captive African Elephants ( Loxodonta africana). Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11123525. [PMID: 34944300 PMCID: PMC8698154 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Regular training for medical or enrichment purposes and the provision of environmental enrichment, such as varied feeding schedules and novel objects, are part of the management of African elephants in zoos. The present study aimed to find out whether training and enrichment in the form of a novel object induced physiological changes in captive African elephants. We repeatedly sampled the saliva of ten animals (three zoos) before and after training and the exposure to a novel object for the analysis of cortisol and as a measure of stress and arousal. We found high salivary cortisol levels before and low levels after training. A novel object, in contrast, moderately increased the salivary cortisol levels. Moreover, males and young elephants showed lower salivary cortisol levels than females and old elephants, respectively. The zoo, handling method (free vs. protected contact to keepers), reproductive and social status, however, did not influence the salivary cortisol levels of the animals studied. We conclude that the relatively high cortisol values before training could be due to anticipation of the training event. A novel object, in contrast, may have evoked arousal, which led to the observed cortisol increase. In addition, understanding why animals differ in stress responses will help to manage stress in zoo elephants with the goal of ensuring their welfare. Abstract Dealing with potential stress in species that have high husbandry requirements, such as elephants, is a challenge for zoos. The objective of the present study was to determine whether positive reinforcement training (PRT) and exposure to a novel object (NOV) for enrichment induced a salivary cortisol response indicative of activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and which factors determine individual variation in this regard in captive African elephants. We repeatedly sampled the saliva of ten animals (three zoos) for the analysis of cortisol (SACort) before and up to 60 min (in 10–15 min intervals) after the onset of PRT (three repeats) or NOV (nine repeats), which lasted 10 min. There was considerable individual variation in SACort in response to PRT or NOV. Using mixed models, we were able to control these and to reveal that PRT was associated with high SACort before and relatively low SACort after PRT, while NOV induced a moderate SACort increase. The individual differences in SACort were related to age and sex (NOV), while the effects of zoo, handling method (free vs. protected contact) and reproductive and social status were variable. We conclude that positive affective states, such as anticipation or arousal, should be taken into account when interpreting the differences in the SACort responses between PRT and NOV. In addition, understanding the individuality of stress will support management decisions aimed at promoting captive elephant welfare.
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Grigg EK, Chou J, Parker E, Gatesy-Davis A, Clarkson ST, Hart LA. Stress-Related Behaviors in Companion Dogs Exposed to Common Household Noises, and Owners' Interpretations of Their Dogs' Behaviors. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:760845. [PMID: 34820438 PMCID: PMC8606548 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.760845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sudden, loud noises are one of the most common triggers for fearful behaviors in dogs, and many companion dogs suffer from noise sensitivity. Existing research focuses on dramatic infrequent sounds (e.g., thunderstorms, fireworks). Anecdotally, and based on reports of undesirable behaviors in response to noises in the home, many common household noises may also be causing fear and anxiety in companion dogs. However, these responses have not yet been studied in home environments. We surveyed 386 dog owners about their dogs' responses to household sounds, and recorded dog behaviors and human reactions from 62 videos and compilations available on an online video sharing platform, featuring dogs reacting to common household noises. Numerous signs of canine fear and anxiety were reported by survey respondents and observed in the videos, in response to both daily, and irregular but “normal,” household noises. Responses were significantly stronger to sounds characterized as high frequency intermittent than to sounds characterized as low frequency continuous. Respondents appeared to underestimate their dogs' fearfulness, and the majority of humans in the videos responded to their dogs' behaviors with amusement; welfare concerns were rarely expressed. While these videos cannot be used to calculate actual prevalence of these issues, our data support that some owners are underestimating fearfulness in their dogs in response to household noises, and responding inappropriately to dogs' expressions of fear and anxiety. Better education is required for dog owners to accurately interpret canine body language, to both safeguard dogs' welfare and minimize development of anxiety-related behavior problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma K Grigg
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Juliann Chou
- Animal Biology, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Emily Parker
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Anwyn Gatesy-Davis
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Sara T Clarkson
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Lynette A Hart
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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McPeake KJ, Collins LM, Zulch H, Mills DS. Behavioural and Physiological Correlates of the Canine Frustration Questionnaire. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:3346. [PMID: 34944121 PMCID: PMC8698056 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Frustration is a negative emotional state implicated in a range of canine behaviour problems. The Canine Frustration Questionnaire (CFQ) is the first psychometric tool developed to assess frustration tendencies in dogs based on owner report. However, to date, no published studies have assessed behavioural and physiological correlates of this trait. A novel behaviour test battery was developed to induce frustration in dogs, mapping onto the CFQ. Forty-four dogs were recruited and filmed whilst undertaking the test battery, and a CFQ was completed by each owner. Targeted behavioural measures were assessed from this footage, based on hypotheses aimed at evaluating convergent and discriminant validity with facets of the CFQ. In addition, a saliva sample was collected pre- and post-testing for 39 dogs, and a cortisol assay performed using ELISA to provide a physiological measure of arousal. A range of predicted behavioural test measures (e.g., vocalising and lunging) positively correlated with CFQ scores. For 22 dogs with pre-test salivary cortisol levels of <4 ng/mL (indicative of normal arousal at baseline), cortisol change and post-test cortisol levels positively correlated with the CFQ PC5 'Frustration coping' score. These results provide further evidence of the validity of frustration tendencies as measured by owner report through the CFQ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J. McPeake
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK
- Animal Behaviour Cognition and Welfare Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7TS, UK; (H.Z.); (D.S.M.)
| | - Lisa M. Collins
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK;
| | - Helen Zulch
- Animal Behaviour Cognition and Welfare Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7TS, UK; (H.Z.); (D.S.M.)
| | - Daniel S. Mills
- Animal Behaviour Cognition and Welfare Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7TS, UK; (H.Z.); (D.S.M.)
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Menuge F, Marcet-Rius M, Chabaud C, Teruel E, Berthelot C, Kalonji G, Bienboire-Frosini C, Mendonça T, Lascar E, Pageat P. Repeated separations between a future guide dog and its foster family modify stress-related indicators and affect dog’s focus. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Laparoscopic Castration Using Bipolar Forceps vs. Orchiectomy in Dogs: A Comparison of Two Techniques. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113041. [PMID: 34827774 PMCID: PMC8614276 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Castration of dogs is one of the most often performed surgeries in veterinary medicine. Minimally invasive techniques used in human medicine are now being used in animals. We compared the feasibility and effects on pain and inflammation of a new laparoscopic technique with the classical castration technique. The animals in which the new technique was applied showed less pain and inflammation then the other group. Our results suggest that this is a feasible alternative to classical castration. Abstract This paper aimed to study the feasibility of a new laparoscopic castration technique in male dogs, evaluate the pain associated with it, and compare it with the classical orchiectomy. Surgical times, pain scores, blood and salivary cortisol, and CRP were recorded and compared between the two groups. The use of high-frequency bipolar forceps allowed quick and uneventful laparoscopic procedures. The laparoscopic group had significantly lower pain scores, cortisol, and PCR values than the orchiectomy group. No complications were seen in any group. Our results suggest that this laparoscopic castration is a safe and beneficial surgical alternative to traditional orchiectomy in dogs.
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Salivary stress markers in dogs: Potential markers of acute stress. Res Vet Sci 2021; 141:48-55. [PMID: 34673347 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Along with the growing awareness of psychological stress in companion animals, several treatments have become available to address fear- and anxiety-related behaviors in dogs. To detect vulnerable individuals and apply effective treatments, reliable evaluations that can quantify individual stress responses are in high demand. To develop measurable variables that have clinical applications, more investigations are needed to increase our knowledge. When stress responses are activated by the sympathetic-adrenal-medullary (SAM) and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axes, the immune system is also activated. Although the peripheral cortisol level is commonly used as a stress biomarker, it primarily reflects the HPA axis response and does not sufficiently reflect the complexity of the stress response. Thus, this review primarily focuses on the available salivary biomarkers that mainly reflect the acute stress response through the activity of the SAM axis and the immune system in dogs. We hope that this review will promote the validation of these biomarkers in dogs and aid in the development of future studies to evaluate stress responses in dogs.
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Tekin K, İnanç ME, Özen D, Cil B, Olğaç KT, Yılmaz B, Taşdemir U, Tuncer PB, Büyükleblebici S, Daşkın A, Uysal O, Stelletta C. Use of Infrared Thermography during Ejaculation Process and Its Link with Semen Quality and Freezability in Dogs. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113023. [PMID: 34827755 PMCID: PMC8614508 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Scientific attention to infrared technology has grown over the last decade. Remote and non-invasive monitoring techniques are of great importance in discovering ejaculation response and future trends because of their role in vascular flux regulation. However, detailed information about its use in andrology has yet to be fully explained. Therefore, we aimed to reveal information about the amount of sperm to be obtained by observing stress levels with non-invasive eye temperature measurement, and the relationship between various reproductive temperature patterns and parameters of the animal’s various physiological conditions such as age, body condition, total ejaculation time and testicular volume. Abstract This study aimed to describe the thermal variation of external reproductive tracts during ejaculation in relation to sperm quality in dogs. Forty-six adult fertile dogs were monitored using a thermal camera before, during and after the semen collection, taking into account penile and scrotal temperatures as reproductive thermal patterns while eye and perianal temperatures were recorded as complementary thermal patterns of behavioral response. The parameters were classified depending on age (≤4 years and >4 years), body weight (BW) (≤75 kg and >75 kg), sperm concentration (CON) (≤300 million and >300 million), total testicular volume (TTV) (≤600 cm3 and >600 cm3) and total ejaculation time (TET) (≤800 s and >800 s) of the animals from which semen was collected successfully. Heavier males (p < 0.05) that have more consistent testicles (p < 0.01) as well as quicker ejaculate responders (p < 0.001) and lower scrotal temperature had better semen (Δ motility) freezability. The lower eye temperature prior to the ejaculation (p < 0.01), lower scrotal temperature following ejaculation (p < 0.01), and conversely, higher penile temperature during the ejaculation (p < 0.001) had a higher sperm concentration. Furthermore, the sperm freezability was negatively correlated with total ejaculation time (r = −0.39, p < 0.05) and sperm abnormalities were lower in the ejaculate of dogs having a higher temperature of the scrotum, bulbus and penis. In conclusion, infrared monitoring throughout semen collection in dogs can provide information on behavioral reactions during human manipulation, as well as semen quality and testicular functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koray Tekin
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara 68100, Turkey; (K.T.); (B.C.); (K.T.O.); (B.Y.); (A.D.); (O.U.)
| | - Muhammed Enes İnanç
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Burdur 15030, Turkey;
| | - Doğukan Özen
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara 06560, Turkey;
| | - Beste Cil
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara 68100, Turkey; (K.T.); (B.C.); (K.T.O.); (B.Y.); (A.D.); (O.U.)
| | - Kemal Tuna Olğaç
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara 68100, Turkey; (K.T.); (B.C.); (K.T.O.); (B.Y.); (A.D.); (O.U.)
| | - Burak Yılmaz
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara 68100, Turkey; (K.T.); (B.C.); (K.T.O.); (B.Y.); (A.D.); (O.U.)
| | - Umut Taşdemir
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aksaray University, Aksaray 68100, Turkey;
| | - Pürhan Barbaros Tuncer
- Technical Sciences Vocational School, Mersin University, Mersin 33110, Turkey; (P.B.T.); (S.B.)
| | - Serhat Büyükleblebici
- Technical Sciences Vocational School, Mersin University, Mersin 33110, Turkey; (P.B.T.); (S.B.)
| | - Ali Daşkın
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara 68100, Turkey; (K.T.); (B.C.); (K.T.O.); (B.Y.); (A.D.); (O.U.)
| | - Ongun Uysal
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara 68100, Turkey; (K.T.); (B.C.); (K.T.O.); (B.Y.); (A.D.); (O.U.)
| | - Calogero Stelletta
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara 68100, Turkey; (K.T.); (B.C.); (K.T.O.); (B.Y.); (A.D.); (O.U.)
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Shih HY, Phillips CJC, Mills DS, Yang Y, Georgiou F, Paterson MBA. Dog Pulling on the Leash: Effects of Restraint by a Neck Collar vs. a Chest Harness. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:735680. [PMID: 34552977 PMCID: PMC8450523 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.735680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Leash pulling is a concern for dog owners and can be detrimental to the health and welfare of dogs. Neck-collars and back-connection harnesses are popular restraint types. Harnesses have been proposed as a better and more considerate option for canine health and welfare. Anecdotally, dogs pull more when wearing a back-connection harness; however, there is no scientific evidence for this perception. This study aimed to investigate how strongly dogs pull on the lead to achieve a food treat or toy under restraint by a neck-collar versus a back-connection harness. A within-subject counterbalanced design was used for the study, involving 52 shelter dogs. A customised canine leash tension metre was connected to the collar or harness to record the pulling of the dogs, including measuring the maximal and mean leash tension, and the time spent pulling. In addition, dog behaviours were recorded using two cameras from two separate directions. The maximal and mean leash tension and the pulling time were greater under restraint by harness when attracting dogs with food treats. No significant difference between harness and collar was found in potential stress-related behaviours (e.g. tail and ear positions, lip-licking, and panting). However, dogs looked at the experimenter more often when restrained by harness than collar in the food treat attraction test. No significant difference was detected between harness and collar with respect to leash tension and stress-related behaviours in the toy attraction test. These findings suggest that dogs tend to pull stronger and more steadily when wearing a back-connection harness compared to a neck collar to reach the food treat but not the toy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao-Yu Shih
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Clive J C Phillips
- Curtin University Sustainability Policy Institute, Bentley, WA, Australia
| | - Daniel S Mills
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| | - Yifei Yang
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Fillipe Georgiou
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Mandy B A Paterson
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia.,Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Shih HY, Paterson MBA, Pachana NA, Phillips CJC. Volunteers' Demographics That Affect the Human-Dog Interaction During Walks in a Shelter. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:699332. [PMID: 34557538 PMCID: PMC8452965 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.699332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Different people relate to dogs in different ways. We investigated differences between volunteers in their behavioural interactions with shelter dogs when they were walked on a leash. Cameras were used to record and quantify the behaviour of volunteers and a leash tension metre was used to measure pulling by both volunteers and shelter dogs. Effects of volunteers' age, body height, educational level, marital status, and experiences of living and working with dogs, and living with children, were examined. Older volunteers talked to the dogs more often during the walk than younger ones. Taller volunteers had reduced physical contact with dogs, and dogs pulled more frequently on the leash while walking with them. Volunteers with a postgraduate degree more frequently praised dogs and rewarded dogs with food and used more body language in the form of hand gestures and physical contact. Married and partnered volunteers more often praised dogs, while separated/divorced or widowed volunteers initiated more frequent physical contacts. Dogs pulled less when walking with volunteers who had experience of living with dogs, and these volunteers interacted with dogs using fewer verbal and body languages. Finally, those living with children more frequently communicated with dogs using body language (e.g., hand gestures and physical contact). We conclude that shelters should carefully consider volunteers' demographics when selecting them to walk dogs with various behavioural characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao-Yu Shih
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Mandy B. A. Paterson
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
- Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Nancy A. Pachana
- School of Psychology, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
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Factors influencing owner-reported approaches to training dogs enrolled in the Generation Pup longitudinal study. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, assessing the effect of a nutraceutical tablet in the management of stress in pet dogs. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Effects of Interval Exercise Training on Serum Biochemistry and Bone Mineral Density in Dogs. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092528. [PMID: 34573494 PMCID: PMC8468388 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In this study, six male beagle dogs underwent 12 weeks of interval exercise following the Frequency, Intensity, Time/duration, Type, Volume, and Progression (FITT-VP) training principle. The heart rate (HR) response was measured during the entire exercise period, and changes in bone mineral density (BMD), muscle volume (MV), and hematology and serum biomarkers were evaluated at the pre-exercise training period and post-exercise training period. We showed that exercise training increased BMD in the femur and serum total alkaline phosphatase (TALP), aspartate aminotransferase, and creatine kinase levels. In addition, our data suggest a positive correlation between BMD and TALP, demonstrating that increased TALP might be an important contributing factor for enhancing BMD with physical training in dogs. Abstract Exercise has been suggested as a powerful intervention for health care and fitness management in humans; however, few studies have demonstrated the benefits of exercise training in dogs. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of exercise training on heart rate (HR), bone mineral density (BMD), muscle volume (MV), and hematological and serum biomarkers in dogs. Six healthy beagles completed the interval treadmill exercise, developed on the basis of the FITT principle, two times a week for 12 weeks. To evaluate the physiological parameters, the HR values were analyzed using the Polar H10 system during the entire exercise period. At pre-and post-exercise, quantitative computed tomography and hematological and serum biochemical parameters were analyzed. The interval exercise resulted in a normal HR response and no adverse behavioral or physiological effects on the dogs. We showed that exercise improved BMD in the femur (541.6 ± 16.7 vs. 610.2 ± 27.8 HA, p < 0.01) and increased serum total alkaline phosphatase (TALP; 68.6 ± 9.2 vs. 81.3 ± 17.2, p < 0.01), aspartate aminotransferase (23.5 ± 1.0 vs. 33.5 ± 1.6, p < 0.01), and creatine kinase (114.8 ± 5.3 vs. 214.0 ± 20.8, p < 0.01) levels. There was a positive relationship between BMD and TALP (femur: r = 0.760, p = 0.004; vertebrae: r = 0.637; p = 0.025). Our findings suggest that interval exercise training is beneficial to increase BMD in the femur, and an increased TALP level would be a concomitant mechanism for enhancing BMD with exercise in dogs.
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Wascher CAF. Heart rate as a measure of emotional arousal in evolutionary biology. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200479. [PMID: 34176323 PMCID: PMC8237168 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
How individuals interact with their environment and respond to changes is a key area of research in evolutionary biology. A physiological parameter that provides an instant proxy for the activation of the automatic nervous system, and can be measured relatively easily, is modulation of heart rate. Over the past four decades, heart rate has been used to assess emotional arousal in non-human animals in a variety of contexts, including social behaviour, animal cognition, animal welfare and animal personality. In this review, I summarize how measuring heart rate has provided new insights into how social animals cope with challenges in their environment. I assess the advantages and limitations of different technologies used to measure heart rate in this context, including wearable heart rate belts and implantable transmitters, and provide an overview of prospective research avenues using established and new technologies, with a special focus on implications for applied research on animal welfare. This article is part of the theme issue 'Measuring physiology in free-living animals (Part II)'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia A. F. Wascher
- Behavioural Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, East Road, Cambridge CB1 1PT, United Kingdom
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Barnard S, Flint H, Shreyer T, Croney C. Evaluation of an easy-to-use protocol for assessing behaviors of dogs retiring from commercial breeding kennels. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0255883. [PMID: 34388174 PMCID: PMC8362968 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective, reliable behavioral tests are needed to refine on-site welfare assessments of dogs housed at commercial breeding (CB) kennels and provide a basis to inform predictions of their behavior when retired from such kennels. This study tested the reliability, construct validity, and applicability of a protocol for the behavioral assessment of dogs from CB kennels that might be useful in comprehensive welfare assessments of this population. A sample of 447 dogs from 26 CB kennels in the Midwestern US were assessed in their pens. Responses to an approach test (performed on three consecutive days) and a behavioral reactivity test (e.g., traffic cone, toys, umbrella) were recorded. Results showed moderate to perfect (Kw = 0.51-1.00) inter-rater reliability between three independent observers. Approach test-retest analysis showed high correlation of approach test scores on days 1, 2 and 3 (r = 0.85, p<0.0001). Exploratory factor analysis extracted four main factors: Food Motivation (F1), Sociability (F2), Boldness (F3) (e.g., response to novel objects), and Responsiveness (F4) (e.g., response to an umbrella opening) confirming the ability of the test to measure behaviors of interest. All factors showed high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha 0.81-0.93) further supporting the robustness of the test construct. The demonstrated reliability of this protocol suggests that it may be usefully applied to assessing the behavior of dogs as a component of their welfare assessment in CB kennels. Doing so using even larger sample sizes may yield insights on the effects of housing and management practices on dog welfare while at the kennels, which may also help inform approaches that improve rehoming outcomes for retiring breeding dogs. Practical applications and limitations are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanis Barnard
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States of America
| | - Hannah Flint
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States of America
| | - Traci Shreyer
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States of America
| | - Candace Croney
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States of America
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Bremhorst A, Mills DS, Würbel H, Riemer S. Evaluating the accuracy of facial expressions as emotion indicators across contexts in dogs. Anim Cogn 2021; 25:121-136. [PMID: 34338869 PMCID: PMC8904359 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-021-01532-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Facial expressions potentially serve as indicators of animal emotions if they are consistently present across situations that (likely) elicit the same emotional state. In a previous study, we used the Dog Facial Action Coding System (DogFACS) to identify facial expressions in dogs associated with conditions presumably eliciting positive anticipation (expectation of a food reward) and frustration (prevention of access to the food). Our first aim here was to identify facial expressions of positive anticipation and frustration in dogs that are context-independent (and thus have potential as emotion indicators) and to distinguish them from expressions that are reward-specific (and thus might relate to a motivational state associated with the expected reward). Therefore, we tested a new sample of 28 dogs with a similar set-up designed to induce positive anticipation (positive condition) and frustration (negative condition) in two reward contexts: food and toys. The previous results were replicated: Ears adductor was associated with the positive condition and Ears flattener, Blink, Lips part, Jaw drop, and Nose lick with the negative condition. Four additional facial actions were also more common in the negative condition. All actions except the Upper lip raiser were independent of reward type. Our second aim was to assess basic measures of diagnostic accuracy for the potential emotion indicators. Ears flattener and Ears downward had relatively high sensitivity but low specificity, whereas the opposite was the case for the other negative correlates. Ears adductor had excellent specificity but low sensitivity. If the identified facial expressions were to be used individually as diagnostic indicators, none would allow consistent correct classifications of the associated emotion. Diagnostic accuracy measures are an essential feature for validity assessments of potential indicators of animal emotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bremhorst
- Division of Animal Welfare, DCR-VPHI, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, LN6 7DL, UK.
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences (GCB), University of Bern, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - D S Mills
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, LN6 7DL, UK
| | - H Würbel
- Division of Animal Welfare, DCR-VPHI, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - S Riemer
- Division of Animal Welfare, DCR-VPHI, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
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