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Bitar S, Minary L, Lalloué B, Kestens Y, Manneville F, O'Loughlin J, Ligier F, Agrinier N. Adolescent mental well-being in time of crises: The role of social and residential contexts. J Adolesc 2024. [PMID: 39370374 DOI: 10.1002/jad.12424] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 09/26/2024] [Accepted: 09/27/2024] [Indexed: 10/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The extent of the impact and the interconnections among factors within social and residential contexts during the COVID-19 lockdowns on mental well-being remain to be elucidated. We identified latent classes of each of social and residential context during the lockdown and examined their associations with mental well-being among adolescents in France 1-year after the first lockdown. METHODS We used data collected in 2021 in a cross-sectional school-based pilot study for EXIST, from 387 participants ages 12-15 years. Participants reported retrospectively on characteristics of their social and residential contexts during the lockdown, and their current mental well-being in self-report questionnaires. We used latent class analysis to identify latent classes of social and residential contexts, and linear regression models to examine the associations between these contexts and mental well-being. RESULTS Four social context classes were identified: class 1 "Low opportunity for social contact at home," class 2 "Moderate opportunity for social contact at home," class 3 "High opportunity for social contact at home," and class 4 "Very high opportunity for social contact at home." Relative to class 4, lower levels of mental well-being were observed among adolescents in class 1 (b = -4.08, 95% CI [-8.06; -0.10]) 1 year after the lockdown. We identified four residential context classes based on proximity to nature, type of residence (e.g., apartment, house), and level of neighborhood deprivation. No association was detected between residential context during the lockdown and adolescent mental well-being one-year later. CONCLUSION A limited social context may negatively impact adolescent mental well-being during crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Bitar
- Faculté de médecine, Université de Lorraine, INSPIIRE, Nancy, France
| | - Laetitia Minary
- Faculté de médecine, Université de Lorraine, INSPIIRE, Nancy, France
| | - Benoit Lalloué
- CHRU-Nancy, INSERM, Université de Lorraine, CIC, Epidémiologie Clinique, Nancy, France
| | - Yan Kestens
- École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal (ESPUM), Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Florian Manneville
- Faculté de médecine, Université de Lorraine, INSPIIRE, Nancy, France
- CHRU-Nancy, INSERM, Université de Lorraine, CIC, Epidémiologie Clinique, Nancy, France
| | - Jennifer O'Loughlin
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Fabienne Ligier
- Faculté de médecine, Université de Lorraine, INSPIIRE, Nancy, France
| | - Nelly Agrinier
- Faculté de médecine, Université de Lorraine, INSPIIRE, Nancy, France
- CHRU-Nancy, INSERM, Université de Lorraine, CIC, Epidémiologie Clinique, Nancy, France
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Barrett BJ, Fitzgerald A, Al-Wahsh H, Musa M. Animal companionship and psycho-social well-being: Findings from a national study of community-dwelling aging Canadians. J Aging Stud 2024; 70:101247. [PMID: 39218499 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaging.2024.101247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
A growing body of evidence has provided support for the beneficial impact of human-animal interactions on a range of biological, social, and psychological outcomes for humans; however, less is conclusively known about the association between animal companionship and psycho-social health specifically among aging populations. In this study, we assessed the association between animal companionship and psycho-social well-being in a large sample (N = 30,865) of community dwelling Canadians aged 45 and older. Using cross-sectional data from the Canadian Community Health Survey-Healthy Aging, we conducted hierarchical multiple regression to assess the relationship between animal companionship and four domains of psycho-social well-being (satisfaction with life, loneliness, depression, and levels of social support) after controlling for socio-demographic factors and psycho-social measures. Results indicate that those with animal companionship report significantly higher levels of social support than aging Canadians without animal companionship; however, animal companionship was also associated with significantly lower levels of life satisfaction and higher levels of both loneliness and depression. These findings complicate the existing literature on human-animal interactions by suggesting the benefits associated with animal companionship may vary across distinct domains of psycho-social health. As such, results from this study highlight the need for more nuanced model specifications when assessing the relationship between animal companionship and psycho-social well-being. Implications of these findings for the provision of social services to older adults with pets are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betty Jo Barrett
- School of Social Work, University of Windsor, 401 Sunset Avenue, Windsor, ON N9B 3P4, Canada.
| | - Amy Fitzgerald
- Sociology and Criminology, University of Windsor, 401 Sunset Avenue, Windsor, ON N9B 3P4, Canada.
| | - Huda Al-Wahsh
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Windsor, 401 Sunset Avenue, Windsor, ON N9B 304, Canada.
| | - Mohamad Musa
- Department of Social Work, Cape Breton University, 1250 Grand Lake Road, Sydney, Nova Scotia B1M 1A2, Canada.
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Wells DL, Treacy KR. Pet attachment and owner personality. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1406590. [PMID: 38736622 PMCID: PMC11082317 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1406590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Research points to a relationship between owner personality and strength of attachment to one's pet, with implications for psychological health. So far, studies in this area, albeit sparse, have focused on the 'Big Five' traits of owner personality. The 'Dark Triad' is a cluster of traits that has also been linked to emotional deficits, but has been overlooked in relation to pet attachment. This study therefore examined the association between owner personality and pet attachment, focusing on both the 'Big Five' and 'Dark Triad' traits of personality. Methods A cross-sectional design was employed to collect quantitative data from dog and cat owners across the globe between May-June 2023. A purpose-designed online survey collected sociodemographic details, along with information on pet ownership, strength of the pet-owner bond and participant personality, assessed using the Big Five personality scale and the Short Dark Triad scale. The survey was fully completed by 759 dog and 179 cat owners. Results Analysis revealed significant correlations between many of the participants' personality traits, both within and between scales. Strength of pet attachment was positively correlated with neuroticism and conscientiousness, and, more weakly, to Machiavellianism. Regression analysis revealed that females, dog owners, people over the age of 50 and individuals who had children under 18 years to care for were more strongly attached to their pets than others. Both neuroticism and conscientiousness were found to be significant predictors of participants' pet attachment scores. None of the Dark Triad traits significantly predicted the criterion. Discussion This study points to a relationship between strength of attachment to one's pet and owner personality, at least as measured using the Big Five approach to personality assessment. There was little to support an association between the Dark Triad traits and strength of attachment to one's pet, although the link between these characteristics and attachment styles is still unknown. The investigation lends support for the idea that high attachment levels are associated with personality traits aligned to psychological ill-health. Further work is recommended in this area, with a greater focus on both strength and quality (e.g., attachment style) of the pet-owner bond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah L. Wells
- Animal Behaviour Centre, School of Psychology, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
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4
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Kuo CH, Kessler S. Intergenerational Transmission of Human Parenting Styles to Human-Dog Relationships. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1038. [PMID: 38612277 PMCID: PMC11010965 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071038] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Parenting style and intergenerational transmission have been extensively studied in parent-child relationships. As dogs are increasingly recognized as integral members of the family system, there is a growing interest in understanding how parenting behaviors directed towards dogs can also influence a dog's behaviors. However, the reasons why people adopt certain parenting behaviors towards dogs remain relatively unknown. This study delved into the intergenerational transmission of parenting styles from one's upbringing to caregiving for dogs. Using a mixed methods approach with 391 dog caregivers and 10 interviews, this study employed multivariate linear regression and thematic analysis. Permissive parenting exhibited an intergenerational effect, with those experiencing it being more likely to replicate the style with their dogs. Orientation towards dogs emerged as a crucial mediator, with protectionistic attitudes reducing the likelihood of replicating authoritarian parenting. Humanistic and protectionistic orientation increased the likelihood of compensatory permissive behaviors. Insights from interviews underscored the impact of perceived childhood experiences on adopting specific parenting behaviors. Ultimately, this study provides valuable insights that can contribute to the promotion of appropriate caregiving behaviors toward dogs. By drawing on our understanding of child-parent relationships, addressing the underlying elements of human-dog dynamics may lead to positive outcomes both for dogs and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih Hsin Kuo
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
- Division of Psychology, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK;
| | - Sharon Kessler
- Division of Psychology, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK;
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5
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Ellis A, Stanton SCE, Hawkins RD, Loughnan S. The Link between the Nature of the Human-Companion Animal Relationship and Well-Being Outcomes in Companion Animal Owners. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:441. [PMID: 38338084 PMCID: PMC10854534 DOI: 10.3390/ani14030441] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Research into the impact of companion animals on well-being has been both extensive and inconclusive, with studies finding both positive and negative relationships. The present research explored three previously unexamined relationship science concepts that may help clarify whether companion animals provide well-being benefits: self-expansion (the process of adding positive content to the self through incorporating new resources and perspectives into one's identity or engaging in novel, exciting activities), perceived pet responsiveness, and perceived pet insensitivity; as well as attachment. We focused on dog and cat owners' depression, anxiety, positive and negative affect, and loneliness through an online survey with a large sample population (N = 1359). We found that perceived pet insensitivity is a significant positive predictor of depression, anxiety, negative affect, and loneliness; that attachment is a significant positive predictor of depression, anxiety, and loneliness, and a significant negative predictor of positive affect; and that self-expansion is a significant positive predictor of positive affect, and a significant negative predictor of loneliness. Loneliness emerged as a mediator in the relationship between perceived pet insensitivity, attachment, self-expansion, and all mental well-being outcome variables. These findings indicate that perceived pet insensitivity, attachment, and self-expansion may play an important yet neglected role in well-being outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalyse Ellis
- Department of Psychology, School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9AD, UK; (S.C.E.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Sarah C. E. Stanton
- Department of Psychology, School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9AD, UK; (S.C.E.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Roxanne D. Hawkins
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9AG, UK;
| | - Steve Loughnan
- Department of Psychology, School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9AD, UK; (S.C.E.S.); (S.L.)
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6
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Sipos D, Kövesdi O, Raposa B, Ferkai L, Deutsch K, Pandur A, Kovács Á, Csima MP. Occupational Stress Levels among Radiologists and Radiographers in Hungary during the COVID-19 Era. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:160. [PMID: 38255049 PMCID: PMC10815895 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12020160] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened stress levels, potentially affecting the occupational wellbeing of radiographers and radiologists. Our study aimed to assess occupational stress levels within the radiology department and identify contributing factors. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between September and November 2022, with participants comprising radiographers and radiologists affiliated with the Hungarian Society of Radiographers and the Hungarian Society of Radiologists. The online survey collected socio-demographic and COVID-19 data, and the participants completed an effort-reward imbalance questionnaire. The analysis of 406 responses revealed significantly higher effort-reward imbalance (ERI) levels among the radiologists compared to the radiographers (p < 0.05). The healthcare professionals with over 30 years of experience exhibited significantly lower ERI levels than those with 1-9 years, 10-19 years, or 20-29 years of experience (p < 0.05). Additionally, the individuals aged 31-40 demonstrated higher ERI levels compared to their counterparts aged 19-30, 41-50, and over 51 (p < 0.05). The respondents cohabiting with a spouse/partner reported significantly higher stress levels than their single colleagues (p < 0.05), while the dog owners exhibited significantly lower ERI levels (p < 0.05). Elevated occupational stress highlights specific groups requiring targeted interventions to reduce stress and mitigate burnout among radiologists and radiographers.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Sipos
- Department of Medical Imaging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Vörösmarty Str. 4, 7621 Pẻcs, Hungary
- Dr. József Baka Diagnostic, Radiation Oncology, Research and Teaching Center, “Moritz Kaposi” Teaching Hospital, Guba Sándor Str. 40, 7400 Kaposvár, Hungary
| | - Orsolya Kövesdi
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Science, University of Pẻcs, Vörösmarty Str. 4, 7621 Pẻcs, Hungary
| | - Bence Raposa
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Science, University of Pẻcs, Vörösmarty Str. 4, 7621 Pẻcs, Hungary
- Institute of Pedagogy of Health and Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Vörösmarty Str. 4, 7621 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Luca Ferkai
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Science, University of Pẻcs, Vörösmarty Str. 4, 7621 Pẻcs, Hungary
- Institute of Pedagogy of Health and Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Vörösmarty Str. 4, 7621 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Krisztina Deutsch
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Science, University of Pẻcs, Vörösmarty Str. 4, 7621 Pẻcs, Hungary
- Institute of Pedagogy of Health and Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Vörösmarty Str. 4, 7621 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Attila Pandur
- Institute of Pedagogy of Health and Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Vörösmarty Str. 4, 7621 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Árpád Kovács
- Department of Medical Imaging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Vörösmarty Str. 4, 7621 Pẻcs, Hungary
- Department of Oncoradiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei 98, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Melinda Petőné Csima
- Department of Medical Imaging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Vörösmarty Str. 4, 7621 Pẻcs, Hungary
- Institute of Education, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Guba Sándor Str. 40, 7400 Kaposvár, Hungary
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7
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Looi MK. Sixty seconds on . . . dogs and dementia. BMJ 2023; 383:2852. [PMID: 38084452 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.p2852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
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8
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Taniguchi Y, Seino S, Ikeuchi T, Hata T, Shinkai S, Kitamura A, Fujiwara Y. Protective effects of dog ownership against the onset of disabling dementia in older community-dwelling Japanese: A longitudinal study. Prev Med Rep 2023; 36:102465. [PMID: 37860160 PMCID: PMC10583170 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
This prospective study examined the associations of dog/cat ownership with incident disabling dementia using propensity score matching based on the physical, social, and psychological characteristics of dog and cat owners. We also examined associations of the interaction between dog/cat ownership and exercise habit and social isolation with dementia. Overall, 11,194 older adults selected using stratified and random sampling strategies in 2016 were analyzed. Dog/cat ownership was defined as "current" or "past and never". Disabling dementia was defined according to physicians' rating in the long-term care insurance system in Japan during the approximately 4-year follow-up period. Statistical analysis was weighted by the inverse of the propensity score in the generalized estimating equation after adjusting for follow-up period. Current dog owners (8.6 %) had an odds ratio (OR) of 0.60 (95 %CI: 0.37-0.977) of having disabling dementia compared to past and never owners. For cat ownership, the corresponding OR was 0.98 (95 %CI: 0.62-1.55). Current dog owners with a regular exercise habit had an OR of 0.37 (0.20-0.68) compared to past and never dog owners with no exercise habit. Further, current dog owners with no social isolation had an OR of 0.41 (0.23-0.73) compared to past and never dog owners with social isolation. Dog ownership had a suppressive effect on incident disabling dementia after adjusting for background factors over a 4-year follow-up period. Specifically, dog owners with an exercise habit and no social isolation had a significantly lower risk of disabling dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Taniguchi
- Japan Environment and Children’s Study Programme Office, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, Japan. ADRESS:16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8506, Japan
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan. ADRESS: 35-2 Sakae-cho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan
| | - Satoshi Seino
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan. ADRESS: 35-2 Sakae-cho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan
| | - Tomoko Ikeuchi
- Human Care Research Team, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan. ADRESS: 35-2 Sakae-cho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan
| | - Toshiki Hata
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan. ADRESS: 35-2 Sakae-cho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan
| | - Shoji Shinkai
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan. ADRESS: 35-2 Sakae-cho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan
- Faculty of Nutrition, Kagawa Nutrition University, Saitama, Japan. ADRESS: 3-9-21 Chiyoda, Sakado City, Saitama 350-0288, Japan
| | - Akihiko Kitamura
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan. ADRESS: 35-2 Sakae-cho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Fujiwara
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan. ADRESS: 35-2 Sakae-cho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan
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9
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Chopik WJ, Oh J, Weidmann R, Weaver JR, Balzarini RN, Zoppolat G, Slatcher RB. The Perks of Pet Ownership? The Effects of Pet Ownership on Well-Being During the COVID-19 Pandemic. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY BULLETIN 2023:1461672231203417. [PMID: 37920950 DOI: 10.1177/01461672231203417] [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: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Pet ownership has often been lauded as a protective factor for well-being, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. We expanded this question to consider how pet (i.e., species, number) and owner (i.e., pet relationship quality, personality, attachment orientations) characteristics affected the association between pet ownership and well-being in a pre-registered mixed method analysis of 767 people assessed three times in May 2020. In our qualitative analyses, pet owners listed both benefits and costs of pet ownership during the COVID-19 pandemic. In our quantitative analyses, we found that pet ownership was not reliably associated with well-being. Furthermore, this association largely did not depend on the number of pets owned, the species of pet(s) owned, the quality of the human-pet relationship, or the owner's psychological characteristics. Our findings are consistent with a large body of research showing null associations of pet ownership on well-being (quantitatively) but positive reports of pet ownership (qualitatively).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rebekka Weidmann
- Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA
- University of Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Rhonda N Balzarini
- Texas State University, San Marcos, USA
- Kinsey Institute, Indiana University, Bloomington, USA
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10
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Marcial-Modesto D, Chin BN, Casserly ED, Parsons SM, Feeney BC. Pet ownership and mental health in United States adults during COVID-19. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1217059. [PMID: 37965666 PMCID: PMC10642284 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1217059] [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: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with declines in mental health and increased interest in pet ownership. We aimed to extend past theories and research linking pet ownership and mental health by investigating whether pet ownership was associated with mental health during the initial phases of the COVID-19 pandemic in a sample of American adults. We also tested whether the association of pet ownership and mental health was moderated by relationship status. Participants were 2,906 American adults who were recruited for an online survey study between May 2020 and May 2021. Pet ownership was assessed via dichotomous self-report (yes/no) and mental health was assessed using a 13-item questionnaire. The sample was 69.2% female with an average age of 46.0 years. 36.1% of the sample owned a pet and 68.5% of the sample was currently partnered. There was no overall association of pet ownership and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic (estimated mean difference (EMD) = 0.35, 95CI = -0.10, 0.80, p = 0.12). However, we found evidence for an association that was moderated by relationship status. Pet ownership was associated with better mental health among partnered individuals (EMD = 0.76, 95CI = 0.21, 1.30, p = 0.006). There was no association of pet ownership and mental health among unpartnered individuals (EMD = -0.41, 95CI = -1.20, 0.37, p = 0.30). Our findings suggest that relationship status may represent a critical moderator of the link between pet ownership and mental health. Future studies are needed to identify specific mechanisms of pet ownership that could explain its varied impact on the mental health of partnered and unpartnered individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brian N. Chin
- Department of Psychology, Trinity College, Hartford, CT, United States
| | | | - Shelby M. Parsons
- Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Brooke C. Feeney
- Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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Brooks SK, Greenberg N. The Well-Being of Companion Animal Caregivers and Their Companion Animals during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Scoping Review. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3294. [PMID: 37894018 PMCID: PMC10604194 DOI: 10.3390/ani13203294] [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: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
It is important to understand the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on animal caregivers and their companion animals in order to inform responses to future crises. Prior research is inconsistent, with the benefits of animal companionship believed to be overstated. In this scoping review, we searched four electronic databases and hand-searched reference lists of included studies. Over 4000 citations were found, and 122 were included in the review. Reflecting on the pre-COVID literature, quantitative evidence of the association between psychological well-being and animal companionship during the pandemic was mixed, with numerous positive, negative, and null findings reported. Studies highlighted the benefits of animal companionship during the pandemic, with animals reported to provide their caregivers with a routine, a sense of greater purpose, a positive distraction from COVID-19, companionship, and emotional support. However, participants also reported concerns about meeting animals' needs, fears of animals catching or spreading the virus, and financial worries. Concerns about what would happen to animals if caregivers were hospitalized led some to delay COVID-19 testing or treatment. Animals also experienced benefits (such as increased companionship and calmer mood) and negative impacts (such as increased clinginess and separation anxiety). Companion animals should be a key consideration in emergency preparedness plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha K. Brooks
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King’s College London, Cutcombe Road, London SE5 9RJ, UK
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12
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Amiot CE, Gagné C, Bastian B. Exploring the role of our contacts with pets in broadening concerns for animals, nature, and fellow humans: a representative study. Sci Rep 2023; 13:17079. [PMID: 37816763 PMCID: PMC10564771 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43680-z] [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: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
While pet ownership is normative in many occidental countries, whether humans' proximal contacts with pets have implications for attitudes and behaviors toward other (non pet) animals, nature, and fellow humans, has received limited empirical attention. In a large representative sample, we investigate whether pet ownership and positive contact with pets are associated with more positive attitudes and heightened concerns for non-pet animals, nature, and human outgroups. A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted among Canadian adults (619 pet owners, 450 non-pet owners). Pet owners reported more positive attitudes toward non-pet animals (e.g., wild, farm animals), higher identification with animals, more positive attitudes toward human outgroups, higher biospheric environmental concerns, higher human-environment interdependence beliefs, and lower usual meat consumption. Positive contact with pets was also associated with most of these outcomes. Solidarity with animals, a dimension of identification with animals, emerged as a particularly clear predictor of these outcomes and mediated the associations between positive contact with pets and positive attitudes toward non-pet animals, biospheric, egoistic, and altruistic environmental concerns, human-environment interdependence beliefs, and diet. Our results provide support for the capacity of pets to shape human consideration for a broad range of social issues, beyond the specific context of human-pet relations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine E Amiot
- Département de Psychologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Succ. Centre-Ville, C.P. 8888, Montreal, PQ, H3C 3P8, Canada.
| | - Christophe Gagné
- Département de Psychologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Succ. Centre-Ville, C.P. 8888, Montreal, PQ, H3C 3P8, Canada
| | - Brock Bastian
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, 06, 05, Redmond Barry Building, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
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Takagi S, Koyasu H, Hattori M, Nagasawa T, Maejima M, Nagasawa M, Kikusui T, Saito A. Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Behavioural Tendencies of Cats and Dogs in Japan. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2217. [PMID: 37444015 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132217] [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: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Physical and mental effects stemming from COVID-19 have impacted not only people's lives but also the lives of their pets, which in recent years are often seen as members of the family. This study aimed to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan on pets and their owners. Participants reported changes in physical activity and mental health, as well as working conditions and frequency of interaction with pets, before and after behavioural restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We also asked about their pets' behaviours using the Feline Behavioural Assessment and Research Questionnaire (Fe-BARQ) and the Canine Behavioural Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ). This study showed that most cat and dog owners spent more time at home due to the COVID-19 behavioural restrictions and that the frequency of contact interaction with their pets increased. However, this study showed higher stress-related behaviours (e.g., cats: excessive grooming; dogs: aggression towards owners) among pets whose owners increased contact interaction. Furthermore, owners' low mental health was correlated with high stress-related behaviours (e.g., touch sensitivity) in pets. The results of this study indicate that the lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan may have affected not only the lives of owners but also the interaction between owners and their pets, and consequently their pets' behaviours. Therefore, there is also concern that changes in lifestyle patterns caused by pandemics could form a negative feedback loop between the health status of both owners and their pets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saho Takagi
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Azabu University, 1-17-71 Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara 252-5201, Japan
- Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Kojimachi Business Center Building, 5-3-1 Kojimachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0083, Japan
| | - Hikari Koyasu
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Azabu University, 1-17-71 Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara 252-5201, Japan
| | - Madoka Hattori
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Azabu University, 1-17-71 Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara 252-5201, Japan
- Wildlife Research Center, Kyoto University, 2-24 Tanaka-Sekiden-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8203, Japan
| | - Takumi Nagasawa
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Funako 1737, Atsugi 243-0034, Japan
| | - Michiro Maejima
- Graduate School of Human Sciences, Sophia University, 7-1 Kioi-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-8554, Japan
| | - Miho Nagasawa
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Azabu University, 1-17-71 Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara 252-5201, Japan
| | - Takefumi Kikusui
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Azabu University, 1-17-71 Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara 252-5201, Japan
- Center for Human and Animal Symbiosis Science, Azabu University, 1-17-71 Fuchinobe, Chuo-ku, Sagamihara 252-5201, Japan
| | - Atsuko Saito
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Human Sciences, Sophia University, 7-1 Kioi-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-8554, Japan
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14
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Paun AGE, Chifor R, Radu C, Strilciuc Ş, Badea IC, Borzan CM. Oral health, the patients' perspective during the COVID 19 pandemic. Med Pharm Rep 2023; 96:305-309. [PMID: 37577022 PMCID: PMC10419691 DOI: 10.15386/mpr-2553] [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: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aims On March 16, 2020, the state of emergency was established with drastic measures of isolation and quarantine. Among the measures taken in the context of the state of emergency was the closure of dental offices throughout the country. The aim of our questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was to identify the psycho-affective implications of the Romanian citizens induced by the COVID-19 pandemic period as well as their opinion related to the self-perceived oral health status during this period. Methods An original questionnaire was designed consisting of 41 questions, which were distributed to the general population via the Internet. The first part of the questionnaire investigated the respondents' opinion regarding the impact of this COVID-19 pandemic period of isolation on their oral health and the attention paid by the subjects to oral hygiene during restrictions. The second part refers to their addressability to the dental services during this pandemic and the third part interrogates different characteristics, namely the presence of comorbidities, possible anxiety, and stress. Results A total of 769 participants answered the questionnaire online. Conclusion According to their responses most of the respondents were not afraid of the possibility of contracting Sars-Cov-2 during dental treatments, but were in certain periods deprived of accessing dental services due to lockdown restrictions. They are aware of their oral health problems and pay more attention to oral hygiene so that they do not get worse during restrictions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Radu Chifor
- Department of Preventive Dental Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Constantin Radu
- RoNeuro, Institute for Neurological Research and Diagnostic, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ştefan Strilciuc
- Department of Neurosciences, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Iulia Clara Badea
- Department of Preventive Dental Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Cristina Maria Borzan
- Department of Public Health and Management, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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15
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Ridwan Y, Sudarnika E, Dewi TIT, Budiono NG. Gastrointestinal helminth parasites of pets: Retrospective study at the veterinary teaching hospital, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia. Vet World 2023; 16:1043-1051. [PMID: 37576768 PMCID: PMC10420713 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2023.1043-1051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Dogs and cats are popular pets that play integral roles in human societies worldwide. Unfortunately, they can carry potential zoonotic helminths that can be transmitted to humans. However, data on the gastrointestinal helminths affecting dogs and cats in Bogor, Indonesia, are currently lacking. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of gastrointestinal helminth parasites in pets from this area using a retrospective analysis. Materials and Methods A retrospective study was conducted at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of IPB University, Bogor. Cat and dog patients from January 2014 to April 2019 were tested for helminth infections and the results as well as their age, sex, and breed data were analyzed using the Chi-square test. Results Among the dogs and cats examined for internal parasites, 61.11% (33/51) of the dogs and 53.80% (92/171) of the cats were infected by helminths. Among the dogs, hookworm (37.04%) and Toxocara spp. (24.07%) were detected, while in the cats, hookworm (11.11%), Toxocara spp. (38.01%), and Dipylidium caninum (4.68%) were detected. The prevalence of hookworm and D. caninum was higher in older pets, while Toxocara spp. infected younger cats and dogs (<1 year) more frequently. The prevalence of Toxocara spp. in the Indonesian local dog breed was higher when than other breeds. Sex did not significantly affect the prevalence of parasites in dogs or cats. Conclusion The discovery of zoonotic helminth parasites in the cat and dog pets from Bogor raises concerns for the inhabitants. Initiatives will be required to inform pet owners about prevention strategies for these parasitic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuf Ridwan
- Division of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Etih Sudarnika
- Division of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Tri Isyani Tungga Dewi
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Novericko Ginger Budiono
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
- Division of Medical Microbiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
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16
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Bennetts SK, Howell T, Crawford S, Burgemeister F, Burke K, Nicholson JM. Family Bonds with Pets and Mental Health during COVID-19 in Australia: A Complex Picture. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5245. [PMID: 37047861 PMCID: PMC10094414 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20075245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has drawn attention to the health-promoting features of human-animal relationships, particularly for families with children. Despite this, the World Health Organization's (1986) Ottawa Charter remains human-centric. Given the reciprocal health impacts of human-animal relationships, this paper aims to (i) describe perceived pet-related benefits, worries, and family activities; and to (ii) examine differences in perceived benefits, worries, and activities for parents and children with and without clinical mental health symptoms. We recruited 1034 Australian parents with a child < 18 years and a cat or dog via a national online survey between July and October 2020. Most parents reported their pet was helpful for their own (78%) and their child's mental health (80%). Adjusted logistic regression revealed parents with clinical psychological distress were 2.5 times more likely to be worried about their pet's care, well-being, and behaviour (OR = 2.56, p < 0.001). Clinically anxious children were almost twice as likely to live in a family who engages frequently in pet-related activities (e.g., cooked treats, taught tricks, OR = 1.82, p < 0.01). Mental health and perceived benefits of having a pet were not strongly associated. Data support re-framing the Ottawa Charter to encompass human-animal relationships, which is an often-neglected aspect of a socioecological approach to health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon K. Bennetts
- Judith Lumley Centre, School of Nursing and Midwifery, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
- Intergenerational Health Group, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Tiffani Howell
- Anthrozoology Research Group, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bendigo, VIC 3552, Australia
| | - Sharinne Crawford
- Judith Lumley Centre, School of Nursing and Midwifery, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
| | - Fiona Burgemeister
- Judith Lumley Centre, School of Nursing and Midwifery, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
| | - Kylie Burke
- Metro North Mental Health, Metro North Health, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia
| | - Jan M. Nicholson
- Judith Lumley Centre, School of Nursing and Midwifery, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
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17
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Puppies Raised during the COVID-19 Lockdown Showed Fearful and Aggressive Behaviors in Adulthood: An Italian Survey. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10030198. [PMID: 36977237 PMCID: PMC10059587 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10030198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Prime Minister’s decree issued by the Italian government on 9 March 2020, known as “#Iorestoacasa” (I stay at home), required everyone to stay indoors, with a few exceptions, from 11 March to 3 May 2020. This decree had a substantial impact on the mental health of both people and dogs. We carried out a national survey to compare the personalities of adult dogs who were puppies in lockdown (from March to May 2020) with those of adult dogs born after that time (from June 2020 to February 2021). Our results highlighted a significant increase in personality traits related to fear and aggression in dogs who experienced lockdown restrictions during their socialization period, further confirming that the COVID-19 pandemic strongly impacted the behavioral development of dogs. Therefore, it may be advantageous for these dogs to be closely monitored by veterinary behaviorists and receive specialized behavioral rehabilitation therapy to lower the risk of episodes of aggression and fearfulness as well as to increase the wellbeing of dogs raised under social restrictions.
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18
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Victor B, Mayer CH. The love of pets in managing remote work challenges during Covid-19. Int Rev Psychiatry 2022; 35:86-96. [PMID: 36538065 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2022.2151342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, a large number of employed individuals all over the world were obliged to work remotely during lockdown. This article focuses on the coping mechanisms which individuals used to manage this difficult situation, specifically the impact which loving and caring for pets had on the way in which people dealt with the challenges of the remote-working environment. Methodologically, this qualitative study used a phenomenological research design to understand the lived experience of the participants in the study. Ten qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with pet owners during the Covid-19 lockdown period in South Africa. The sample was recruited using purposeful and snowball sampling techniques. Data were analysed through content analysis while qualitative quality criteria were applied. Findings show pets supported their owners in many different ways during the pandemic and only the animal's presence supported the owners at home physically, psychologically and emotionally. They helped to reduce the stress of their owners and create a homely atmosphere. Pets played a specific role in providing love, companionship, strong emotional and affective bonds and by creating experiences of comfort, positive as well as negative distraction from work, and physical presence. The experience of love was one major aspect of the relationships between pets and humans. Conclusions are drawn and recommendations are given with regard to future research, highlighting how organisations and consultants can use the positive influences of pets in remote-working scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Victor
- Department of Industrial Psychology and People Management, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Claude-Hélène Mayer
- Department of Industrial Psychology and People Management, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
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19
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Reniers PWA, Leontjevas R, Declercq IJN, Enders-Slegers MJ, Gerritsen DL, Hediger K. The Significance of Pets for Vulnerable Older Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Explorative Qualitative Study. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:2752. [PMID: 36290138 PMCID: PMC9597756 DOI: 10.3390/ani12202752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Older adults receiving long-term care at home (LTCH-clients) were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and its countermeasures. Previous research suggests that pets can mitigate some of the pandemic's impacts for older adults but results are contradictory. Our aim was to investigate experiences of LTCH-clients and the significance of their pets during the pandemic. Accounting for saturation, semi-structured interviews were conducted with five LTCH-clients and four family caregivers of LTCH-clients with dementia. Participants were asked about their experiences with COVID-19 and the significance of LTCH-clients' pets during the pandemic. Two researchers performed thematic analyses in ATLAS.ti using open coding and an iterative-inductive approach. All participants reported negative experiences as a result of COVID-19 countermeasures. Results suggested that caring for pets provided pet owners with structure, which may have contributed to a sense of stability and continuity. Our outcomes underlined an important role of pets for LTCH-clients both before and during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter W. A. Reniers
- Faculty of Psychology, Open University of the Netherlands, 6419 AT Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Ruslan Leontjevas
- Faculty of Psychology, Open University of the Netherlands, 6419 AT Heerlen, The Netherlands
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboudumc Alzheimer Center, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ine J. N. Declercq
- Faculty of Psychology, Open University of the Netherlands, 6419 AT Heerlen, The Netherlands
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboudumc Alzheimer Center, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Debby L. Gerritsen
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboudumc Alzheimer Center, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Karin Hediger
- Faculty of Psychology, Open University of the Netherlands, 6419 AT Heerlen, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Basel, 4055 Basel, Switzerland
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Krouzecky C, Aden J, Hametner K, Klaps A, Kovacovsky Z, Stetina BU. Fantastic Beasts and Why It Is Necessary to Understand Our Relationship—Animal Companionship under Challenging Circumstances Using the Example of Long-Covid. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12151892. [PMID: 35892542 PMCID: PMC9330774 DOI: 10.3390/ani12151892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies in the field of human–animal interaction tend to highlight the positive results of the influence of animals on humans, which supports the popular belief that the human–animal bond positively affects humans’ well-being (“pet-effect”). Nevertheless, contradictory results exist that seem especially visible since the COVID-19 pandemic, a prominent external stressor. Despite critical findings, individuals seem to want to believe in the beneficial effects of the human–animal relationship (“pet-effect paradox”). Based on this background, the present study aims to investigate this phenomenon using a mixed-method design. Therefore, animal caregivers were surveyed online and compared using psychometric measurements and open-ended questions. In this context, a special focus was placed on the additional stressor of Long-Covid and related concerns. The results demonstrate once more the existence of the “pet-effect paradox” due to a contradiction in the quantitative and qualitative results. At a quantitative level, the findings show additional burdens on animal caregivers who are confronted with multiple loads. However, the qualitative results indicate a belief in the beneficial effects of pets at the biopsychosocial level. Additionally, the data demonstrate a shift in focus away from the environment to oneself when affected by Long-Covid, which might affect the ability to care for an animal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Krouzecky
- Psychological Outpatient Clinic, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, 1020 Vienna, Austria; (A.K.); (Z.K.); (B.U.S.)
- Faculty of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, 1020 Vienna, Austria; (J.A.); (K.H.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Jan Aden
- Faculty of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, 1020 Vienna, Austria; (J.A.); (K.H.)
| | - Katharina Hametner
- Faculty of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, 1020 Vienna, Austria; (J.A.); (K.H.)
| | - Armin Klaps
- Psychological Outpatient Clinic, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, 1020 Vienna, Austria; (A.K.); (Z.K.); (B.U.S.)
- Faculty of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, 1020 Vienna, Austria; (J.A.); (K.H.)
| | - Zuzana Kovacovsky
- Psychological Outpatient Clinic, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, 1020 Vienna, Austria; (A.K.); (Z.K.); (B.U.S.)
- Faculty of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, 1020 Vienna, Austria; (J.A.); (K.H.)
| | - Birgit U. Stetina
- Psychological Outpatient Clinic, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, 1020 Vienna, Austria; (A.K.); (Z.K.); (B.U.S.)
- Faculty of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, 1020 Vienna, Austria; (J.A.); (K.H.)
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Natoli E, Litchfield C, Pontier D. Coexistence between Humans and ‘Misunderstood’ Domestic Cats in the Anthropocene: Exploring Behavioural Plasticity as a Gatekeeper of Evolution. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12131717. [PMID: 35804616 PMCID: PMC9264925 DOI: 10.3390/ani12131717] [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: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Welfare and management decisions for unowned free-ranging cats in urban environments should no longer be based on knowledge about behavioural ecology of solitary cats living and breeding in more natural ‘wild’ environments. We provide evidence that urban free-ranging domestic cats in the Anthropocene have responded to rapidly changing environments, such as abundance of food and higher population densities of conspecifics by adapting their behaviour (behavioural plasticity—the ability of a genotype (individual) to express different behaviours according to its environment) and social organisation to living in complex social groups, especially those living in colonies. Urban free-ranging cats are now more social, as demonstrated by different breeding patterns, lower infanticide, more frequent affiliative interactions in general, and different spatial groupings. We argue that this knowledge should be disseminated widely, and inform future research and strategies used to manage free-ranging cats across environments. Understanding behavioural plasticity and other recently evolved traits of domestic cats may lead to management strategies that maximise health and welfare of cats, wildlife, and humans—otherwise domestic cat behaviour may be ‘misunderstood’. Importantly, interdisciplinary research using expertise from biological and social sciences, and engaging human communities, should evaluate these management strategies to ensure they maintain optimal welfare of free-ranging domestic cats while preserving biodiversity and protecting wildcats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia Natoli
- Canile Sovrazonale, ASL Roma 3 (Local Health Unit Rome 3), 00148 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Carla Litchfield
- Conservation Psychology and Applied Animal Behaviour Research Group, Justice and Society (Discipline of Psychology), University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia;
| | - Dominique Pontier
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et de Biologie Évolutive, UMR CNRS5558, Université C. Bernard Lyon 1, 43 Bd du 11 nov. 1018, 69622 Villeurbanne, France;
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