1
|
Gnanadesikan GE, Bray EE, Cook EN, Levy KM, Douglas LELC, Kennedy BS, Tecot SR, MacLean EL. Basal plasma oxytocin & fecal cortisol concentrations are highly heritable and associated with individual differences in behavior & cognition in dog puppies. Horm Behav 2024; 165:105612. [PMID: 39116461 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2024.105612] [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: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Oxytocin and cortisol are hormones that can influence cognition and behavior, but the relationships between endogenous concentrations and individual differences in cognitive and behavioral phenotypes remain poorly understood. Across mammals, oxytocin has important roles in diverse social behaviors, and in dogs, it has been implicated in human-oriented behaviors such as social gaze and point-following. Cortisol, an end-product of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, is often studied in relation to temperament and emotional reactivity, but it is also known to modulate executive functions. In this study, we measured basal fecal cortisol (n = 247) and plasma oxytocin (n = 249) in dog puppies from a pedigreed population (Canine Companions ®). We collected cognitive and behavioral data from these subjects (n = 247), including measures of human-oriented social cognition, memory, inhibitory control, perceptual discriminations, and temperament. Oxytocin concentrations were estimated to be very highly heritable (h2 = 0.90-0.99) and cortisol concentrations were estimated to be moderately-highly heritable (h2 = 0.43-0.47). Bayesian mixed models controlling for relatedness revealed that oxytocin concentrations were positively associated with spatial working memory and displayed a negative quadratic relationship with behavioral laterality, but no credible associations were seen for social measures. Cortisol concentrations exhibited a negative linear relationship with performance on an inhibitory control task and a negative quadratic relationship with bold behavioral reactions to a novel object. Collectively, our results suggest that individual differences in oxytocin and cortisol concentrations are under strong genetic control in dogs and are associated with phenotypic variation in aspects of temperament, behavioral laterality, and executive function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gitanjali E Gnanadesikan
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; Laboratory for the Evolutionary Endocrinology of Primates, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; Cognitive Science Program, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; Department of Anthropology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Emily E Bray
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; Canine Companions for Independence, Santa Rosa, CA 95402, USA; College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; Psychology Department, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Erica N Cook
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; Laboratory for the Evolutionary Endocrinology of Primates, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Kerinne M Levy
- Canine Companions for Independence, Santa Rosa, CA 95402, USA
| | | | | | - Stacey R Tecot
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; Laboratory for the Evolutionary Endocrinology of Primates, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Evan L MacLean
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; Cognitive Science Program, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; Psychology Department, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Guvenc-Bayram G, Semen Z, Polat-Dincer PF, Sertkaya ZT, Ustundag Y, Ates C, Aktas B, Yalcin M. The Relation between Plasma Nesfatin-1 Levels and Aggressive Behavior in Pit Bull Dogs. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:632. [PMID: 38396600 PMCID: PMC10886264 DOI: 10.3390/ani14040632] [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: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Aggression is a prevalent and concerning behavioral issue in dogs. Pit Bull dogs, known for their high levels of aggression, are recognized as a focus of concern in society. In our study, we aimed to investigate the behavioral characteristics of Pit Bull dogs and explore the potential roles of peptides involved in the neurobiology of aggression. Initially, female, and male dogs underwent aggression tests, and their aggression levels were categorized. Plasma nesfatin-1, serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine levels were quantified using ELISA, with blood samples collected after a 24 h fasting period and 2 h post-refeeding. Our findings indicate that aggression in Pit Bull dogs correlates with decreased plasma nesfatin-1, serotonin, and oxytocin levels, while dopamine levels increase. The study's findings indicate that fasted dogs exhibited lower plasma levels of nesfatin-1, serotonin, and dopamine, while plasma oxytocin levels were higher. Furthermore, while the research findings do not suggest a significant relationship between the severity of aggression and the gender of the dog, male Pit Bull breeds appear to have higher plasma nesfatin-1 and serotonin levels compared to their female counterparts. The study's findings demonstrate that nesfatin-1, serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine play pivotal roles in Pit Bull dogs' aggression, indicating potential interactions among these neuropeptides at the central nervous system level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gokcen Guvenc-Bayram
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir 35890, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Semen
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir 35890, Turkey;
| | - Pelin Fatos Polat-Dincer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir 35890, Turkey;
| | - Zeynep Tugce Sertkaya
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara Medipol University, Ankara 06050, Turkey;
| | - Yasemin Ustundag
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir 35890, Turkey;
| | - Can Ates
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine, Aksaray University, Aksaray 68100, Turkey;
| | - Bugra Aktas
- Manisa Metropolitan Municipality Temporary Animal Shelter, Manisa 45125, Turkey;
| | - Murat Yalcin
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa 16059, Turkey;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Hamilton-Bruce MA, Young J, Nottle C, Hazel SJ, Milton AG, McDowall S, Mani B, Koblar S. Developing and Planning a Protocol for Implementing Health Promoting Animal Assisted Interventions (AAI) in a Tertiary Health Setting. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6780. [PMID: 37754639 PMCID: PMC10531378 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20186780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
The Ottawa Charter identifies that multiple levels of government, non-government, community, and other organizations should work together to facilitate health promotion, including in acute settings such as hospitals. We outline a method and protocol to achieve this, namely an Action Research (AR) framework for an Animal Assisted Intervention (AAI) in a tertiary health setting. Dogs Offering Support after Stroke (DOgSS) is an AR study at a major tertiary referral hospital. AAI has been reported to improve mood and quality of life for patients in hospitals. Our project objectives included applying for funding, developing a hospital dog visiting Action Research project, and, subsequent to ethics and governance approvals and finance, undertaking and reporting on the Action Research findings. The Action Research project aimed to investigate whether AAI (dog-visiting) makes a difference to the expressed mood of stroke patients and their informal supports (visiting carers/family/friends), and also the impact these visits have on hospital staff and volunteers, as well as the dog handler and dog involved. We provide our protocol for project management and operations, setting out how the project is conducted from conception to assess human and animal wellbeing and assist subsequent decision-making about introducing dog-visiting to the Stroke Unit. The protocol can be used or adapted by other organizations to try to avoid pitfalls and support health promotion in one of the five important action areas of the Ottawa Charter, namely that of reorienting health services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. Anne Hamilton-Bruce
- Stroke Research Programme, Basil Hetzel Institute, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Woodville South 5011, Australia;
| | - Janette Young
- Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide 5000, Australia; (J.Y.); (C.N.)
| | - Carmel Nottle
- Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide 5000, Australia; (J.Y.); (C.N.)
| | - Susan J. Hazel
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy 5371, Australia;
| | - Austin G. Milton
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia; (A.G.M.); (S.K.)
| | - Sonya McDowall
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, Roseworthy 5371, Australia;
| | - Ben Mani
- Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide 5000, Australia; (J.Y.); (C.N.)
| | - Simon Koblar
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia; (A.G.M.); (S.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Berget B, Vas J, Pedersen G, Uvnäs-Moberg K, Newberry RC. Oxytocin levels and self-reported anxiety during interactions between humans and cows. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1252463. [PMID: 37780173 PMCID: PMC10536144 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1252463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Positive social interactions with farm animals may have therapeutic benefits on humans by increasing brain oxytocin secretion, as inferred from circulating oxytocin levels. The aim of this observational study was to investigate acute changes in human plasma oxytocin levels and state anxiety associated with interactions with dairy cows. Methods Data were collected from 18 healthy female nursing students who performed stroking and brushing of an unfamiliar cow for 15 min. Blood samples were drawn before entering the cowshed (T1, baseline), and after 5 (T2) and 15 (T3) min of interaction with a cow. At T1 and T3, the students filled out the Norwegian version of the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-State Subscale (STAI-SS). Results Across participants, no significant changes in average plasma oxytocin concentration were detected between time points (p>0.05). There was, however, a modest decline in the STAI-SS scores between T1 and T3 (p=0.015) and a positive correlation between the change in individual level of state anxiety between T1 and T3 and the change in OT concentration of the same individual between T2 and T3 (p = 0.045). Discussion The results suggest that friendly social interactions with cows are beneficial in lowering state anxiety, but any relationship with release of OT into the circulation was complex and variable across individuals. The acute reduction in state anxiety lends support to the value of interacting with farm animals in the context of Green Care for people with mental health challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bente Berget
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Department of Health, Social and Welfare Studies, University of South-Eastern Norway, Borre, Norway
- Department of Health and Society, NORCE Norwegian Research Centre AS, Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Judit Vas
- Faculty of Biosciences, Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Gunn Pedersen
- Faculty of Biosciences, Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Kerstin Uvnäs-Moberg
- Department of Animal Environment and Health, Section of Anthrozoology and Applied Ethology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Skara, Sweden
| | - Ruth C. Newberry
- Faculty of Biosciences, Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Woszczyło M, Szumny A, Knap P, Jezierski T, Niżański W, Kokocińska A, Skwark MJ, Dzięcioł M. The influence of manual semen collection in male trained dogs (Canis familiaris), in the presence or absence of a female in estrus, on the concentrations of cortisol, oxytocin, prolactin and testosterone. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0278524. [PMID: 36730259 PMCID: PMC9894453 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex pheromones are chemical substances secreted into the environment that affect the physiology and behavior of recipients. Females use these compounds during oestrus to attract males, which leads to attempts of mating. This study evaluates the influence of manual semen collection in male dogs, in the presence or absence of a female in estrus, on the blood concentrations of cortisol (CRT), oxytocin (OXT), prolactin (PRL) and testosterone (T), as hormones involved both in the physiology of reproduction and stress. Ten male dogs were used in Experiment 1 to measure the serum and plasma concentrations of the aforementioned hormones in the absence of semen collection. Subsequently in the same animals, the concentrations of these hormones were evaluated before and after semen collection in the presence (Exp. 2) or in absence of a female in estrus (Exp. 3). No significant changes in hormone concentration caused by the semen collection were found, either with, or without the presence of female in estrus. Obtained results suggest that the procedure of manual semen collection in dogs, probably due to its passive character, does not stimulate endocrine glands to secrete hormones, and the process of ejaculation is probably controlled by neural pathway. The lack of effect of semiochemical stimulation to the CRT, PRL, OXT and T level, could be caused by a short contact with female during semen collection. Further studies on involvement of the hormones during the process of natural mating, especially preceded by long courtships, similar to that observed under natural conditions, should shed a light on the physiology of mating and the connection between the endocrine system and semiochemical stimulation in dogs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martyna Woszczyło
- Department of Reproduction, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Antoni Szumny
- Department of Chemistry, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Piotr Knap
- Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Birth and Exotic Animals, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Tadeusz Jezierski
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Animal Behavior and Welfare, Magdalenka, Poland
| | - Wojciech Niżański
- Department of Reproduction, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Agata Kokocińska
- Institute of Biological Bases of Animal Production, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | | | - Michał Dzięcioł
- Department of Reproduction, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Foltin S, Glenk LM. Current Perspectives on the Challenges of Implementing Assistance Dogs in Human Mental Health Care. Vet Sci 2023; 10:62. [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.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Foltin
- Department of Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45141 Essen, Germany
| | - Lisa Maria Glenk
- Comparative Medicine, The Interuniversity Messerli Research Institute of the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mota-Rojas D, Pereira AMF, Martínez-Burnes J, Domínguez-Oliva A, Mora-Medina P, Casas-Alvarado A, Rios-Sandoval J, de Mira Geraldo A, Wang D. Thermal Imaging to Assess the Health Status in Wildlife Animals under Human Care: Limitations and Perspectives. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:3558. [PMID: 36552478 PMCID: PMC9774956 DOI: 10.3390/ani12243558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Promoting animal welfare in wildlife species under human care requires the implementation of techniques for continuously monitoring their health. Infrared thermography is a non-invasive tool that uses the radiation emitted from the skin of animals to assess their thermal state. However, there are no established thermal windows in wildlife species because factors such as the thickness or color of the skin, type/length of coat, or presence of fur can influence the readings taken to obtain objective, sensitive values. Therefore, this review aims to discuss the usefulness and application of the ocular, nasal, thoracic, abdominal, and podal anatomical regions as thermal windows for evaluating zoo animals' thermal response and health status. A literature search of the Web of Science, Science Direct, and PubMed databases was performed to identify relevant studies that used IRT with wild species as a complementary diagnostic tool. Implementing IRT in zoos or conservation centers could also serve as a method for determining and monitoring optimal habitat designs to meet the needs of specific animals. In addition, we analyze the limitations of using IRT with various wildlife species under human care to understand better the differences among animals and the factors that must be considered when using infrared thermography.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Mota-Rojas
- Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, Department of Agricultural and Animal Production, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM) Unidad Xochimilco, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
| | - Alfredo M. F. Pereira
- Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development (MED), Institute for Advanced Studies and Research, Universidade de Évora, 7006-554 Évora, Portugal
| | - Julio Martínez-Burnes
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, Victoria City 87000, Mexico
| | - Adriana Domínguez-Oliva
- Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, Department of Agricultural and Animal Production, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM) Unidad Xochimilco, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
| | - Patricia Mora-Medina
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuautitlan Izcalli 54714, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Casas-Alvarado
- Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, Department of Agricultural and Animal Production, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM) Unidad Xochimilco, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
| | - Jennifer Rios-Sandoval
- Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, Department of Agricultural and Animal Production, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM) Unidad Xochimilco, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
| | - Ana de Mira Geraldo
- Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development (MED), Institute for Advanced Studies and Research, Universidade de Évora, 7006-554 Évora, Portugal
| | - Dehua Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Effects of contact with a dog on prefrontal brain activity: A controlled trial. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0274833. [PMID: 36197880 PMCID: PMC9534402 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274833] [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: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is a broad range of known effects of animal contact on human mental and physical health. Neurological correlates of human interaction with animals have been sparsely investigated. We investigated changes in frontal brain activity in the presence of and during contact with a dog. Methods Twenty-one healthy individuals each participated in six sessions. In three sessions, participants had contact with a dog, and in three control sessions they interacted with a plush animal. Each session had five two-minute phases with increasing intensity of contact to the dog or plush animal from the first to the fourth phase. We measured oxygenated, deoxygenated, and total hemoglobin and oxygen saturation of the blood in the frontal lobe/frontopolar area with functional near-infrared spectroscopy (SenSmart Model X-100) to assess brain activity. Findings In both conditions, the concentration of oxygenated hemoglobin increased significantly from the first to the fourth phase by 2.78 μmol/l (CI = 2.03–3.53, p < .001). Oxygenated hemoglobin concentration was 0.80 μmol/l higher in the dog condition compared to in the control condition (CI = 0.27–1.33, p = .004). Deoxygenated-hemoglobin concentration, total hemoglobin concentration, and oxygen saturation showed similar patterns. Conclusion Prefrontal brain activation in healthy subjects increased with the rise in interaction closeness with a dog or a plush animal. Moreover, interaction with a dog stimulated more brain activity compared to the control condition, suggesting that interactions with a dog can activate stronger attentional processes and elicit more emotional arousal than interacting with a nonliving stimulus.
Collapse
|
9
|
Gadomski A, Scribani MB, Tallman N, Krupa N, Jenkins P, Wissow LS. Impact of pet dog or cat exposure during childhood on mental illness during adolescence: a cohort study. BMC Pediatr 2022; 22:572. [PMID: 36199055 PMCID: PMC9532803 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-022-03636-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In our prior study of 643 children, ages 4-11 years, children with pet dogs had lower anxiety scores than children without pet dogs. This follow-up study examines whether exposure to pet dogs or cats during childhood reduces the risk of adolescent mental health (MH) disorders. METHODS Using a retrospective cohort study design, we merged our prior study database with electronic medical record (EMR) data to create an analytic database. Common MH diagnoses (anxiety, depression, ADHD) occurring from the time of prior study enrollment to 10/27/21 were identified using ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes. We used proportional hazards regression to compare time to MH diagnoses, between youths with and without pets. From 4/1/20 to 10/27/21, parents and youth in the prior study were interviewed about the amount of time the youth was exposed to a pet and how attached s/he was to the pet. Exposure included having a pet dog at baseline, cumulative exposure to a pet dog or cat during follow-up, and level of pet attachment. The main outcomes were anxiety diagnosis, any MH diagnosis, and MH diagnosis associated with a psychotropic prescription. RESULTS EMR review identified 571 youths with mean age of 14 years (range 11-19), 53% were male, 58% had a pet dog at baseline. During follow-up (mean of 7.8 years), 191 children received a MH diagnosis: 99 were diagnosed with anxiety (52%), 61 with ADHD (32%), 21 with depression (11%), 10 with combined MH diagnoses (5%). After adjusting for significant confounders, having a pet dog at baseline was associated with lower risk of any MH diagnosis (HR = 0.74, p = .04) but not for anxiety or MH diagnosis with a psychotropic prescription. Among the 241 (42%) youths contacted for follow-up, parent-reported cumulative exposure to pet dogs was borderline negatively associated with occurrence of any MH diagnosis (HR = 0.74, p = .06). Cumulative exposure to the most attached pet (dog or cat) was negatively associated with anxiety diagnosis (HR = 0.57, p = .006) and any MH diagnosis (HR = 0.64, p = .013). CONCLUSION Cumulative exposure to a highly attached pet dog or cat is associated with reduced risk of adolescent MH disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Gadomski
- Research Institute , Bassett Medical Center , Cooperstown, NY, USA.
| | - Melissa B Scribani
- Data Analyst, Center for Biostatistics, Bassett Research Institute, Cooperstown, NY, USA
| | - Nancy Tallman
- Bassett Research Institute, Bassett Medical Center , Cooperstown, United States
| | - Nicole Krupa
- Data Manager, Center for Biostatistics, Bassett Research Institute, Cooperstown, NY, USA
| | - Paul Jenkins
- Center for Biostatistics, Bassett Research Institute, Cooperstown, NY, USA
| | - Lawrence S Wissow
- Vice Chair for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Division Chief, Child Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Effects of animal-assisted therapy on patients with dementia: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Psychiatry Res 2022; 314:114619. [PMID: 35623240 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this meta-analysis is to systematically examine the efficacy of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) for patients with dementia. PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane libraries were searched till November 2021 to collect studies in relation to AAT that had been adopted in patients with dementia. Eleven randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 825 participants were included. Compared with the control group, the AAT group showed a significant reduction in behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), especially depression. However, no significant improvement was found in cognitive function, activities of daily living, agitation, or the quality of life. This meta-analysis shows that AAT can effectively reduce BPSD in patients with dementia.
Collapse
|
11
|
Can dogs reduce stress levels in school children? effects of dog-assisted interventions on salivary cortisol in children with and without special educational needs using randomized controlled trials. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269333. [PMID: 35704561 PMCID: PMC9200172 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Prolonged or excessive stress negatively affects learning, behavior and health across the lifespan. To alleviate adverse effects of stress in school children, stressors should be reduced, and support and effective interventions provided. Animal-assisted interventions (AAI) have shown beneficial effects on health and wellbeing, however, robust knowledge on stress mediation in children is lacking. Despite this, AAIs are increasingly employed in settings world-wide, including schools, to reduce stress and support learning and wellbeing. This study is the first randomized controlled trial to investigate dog-assisted interventions as a mediator of stress in school children with and without special educational needs (SEN) over the school term. Interventions were carried out individually and in small groups twice a week for 20 minutes over the course of 4 weeks. We compared physiological changes in salivary cortisol in a dog intervention group with a relaxation intervention group and a no treatment control group. We compared cortisol level means before and after the 4 weeks of interventions in all children as well as acute cortisol in mainstream school children. Dog interventions lead to significantly lower stress in children with and without special educational needs compared to their peers in relaxation or no treatment control groups. In neurotypical children, those in the dog interventions showed no baseline stress level increases over the school term. In addition, acute cortisol levels evidenced significant stress reduction following the interventions. In contrast, the no treatment control group showed significant rises in baseline cortisol levels from beginning to end of school term. Increases also occurred in the relaxation intervention group. Children with SEN showed significantly decreased cortisol levels after dog group interventions. No changes occurred in the relaxation or no treatment control groups. These findings provide crucial evidence that dog interventions can successfully attenuate stress levels in school children with important implications for AAI implementation, learning and wellbeing.
Collapse
|
12
|
Are Hair Cortisol Levels of Humans, Cats, and Dogs from the Same Household Correlated? Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12111472. [PMID: 35681936 PMCID: PMC9179579 DOI: 10.3390/ani12111472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Dogs and cats are animals that have been accompanying humans for many years. There is no doubt that they are emotionally connected with people, although each of them in their own way. The study attempts to assess the emotional relationship between humans, dogs, and cats living in one household on the basis of the correlations between the hair cortisol level. The study involved 25 women who had at least one dog and at least one cat at home. Based on the study conducted, no significant correlation was found between the level of cortisol in the hair of the owners and their pets. There were, however, some interesting differences depending on the degree of emotional connection and the frequency of interactions. Abstract Human–animal interactions and the emotional relationship of the owner with the pet are the subjects of many scientific studies and the constant interest of not only scientists but also pet owners. The aim of this study was to determine and compare the hair cortisol levels of dogs, cats, and their owners living in the same household. The owners were asked to complete a questionnaire concerning the frequency of their interactions with pets and emotional relationship with each of their cats and each of their dogs. The study involved 25 women who owned at least one dog and at least one cat. In total, 45 dogs and 55 cats from 25 households participated in the study. The average level of hair cortisol of the owners was 4.62 ng/mL, of the dogs 0.26 ng/mL, and in the hair of cats 0.45 ng/mL. There was no significant correlation between the hair cortisol level of the owner and dog or the owner and the cat and between dogs and cats living together. A significant positive correlation was observed between the hair cortisol level in the owner and the pet, for dogs in which the owner performs grooming treatments once a week and for cats which are never kissed. Although our study did not find many significant correlations, studies using other stress markers might have yielded different results.
Collapse
|
13
|
Miller SL, Serpell JA, Dalton KR, Waite KB, Morris DO, Redding LE, Dreschel NA, Davis MF. The Importance of Evaluating Positive Welfare Characteristics and Temperament in Working Therapy Dogs. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:844252. [PMID: 35445102 PMCID: PMC9014261 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.844252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
To date, investigations of the welfare of therapy dogs have focused largely on examining physiological and behavioral measures that could indicate if the animal is experiencing stress or distress. However, this approach does not fully address the definition of welfare which is often described as existing on a continuum from negative (or stressful) to positive. With therapy dogs, it would be worth addressing if they experience positive emotional affect while working since the quality and efficacy of animal-assisted interventions for the human recipient is likely to be influenced by the animal's emotional state during the interaction. The purpose of this review is to articulate how objective measurements of the HPA axis and measurements of behavioral observations and standardized questions can be used to evaluate positive welfare in therapy dogs. A potentially relevant indicator of positive welfare is the peripheral concentration of the neurohormone oxytocin, which has been found to increase in systemic circulation within a variety of species during positive social and affiliative contexts, including during human-dog interaction. Oxytocin is also a negative-feedback regulator of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, which culminates with the production of the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol is widely used as a physiological indicator to assess negative welfare states in animals, including therapy dogs. Observable behavior during interactions with humans that may convey enjoyment could provide indicators of positive welfare in dogs such as engagement in play, or human-directed affiliative behaviors including leaning against, nudging, or licking the patient. However, in assessing positive welfare, it is also critical to consider that all animal behavioral displays and physiological responses are dependent on the dog's individual (and breed) temperament. Temperament directly drives how the animal copes and responds to its current physical and social environment, including during stressful situations such as when therapy dogs interact with unfamiliar humans in novel healthcare settings. Coupled with both positive and negative physiological and behavioral welfare indicators, questionnaire data can provide further context to, and enhance interpretations of, therapy dog welfare assessment results. Overall, to date, no studies have measured all of these factors to assess therapy dog welfare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharmaine L Miller
- One Health Laboratory, Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - James A Serpell
- Department of Clinical Sciences & Advanced Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Kathryn R Dalton
- One Health Laboratory, Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Kaitlin B Waite
- One Health Laboratory, Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Daniel O Morris
- Department of Clinical Sciences & Advanced Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Laurel E Redding
- Department of Clinical Studies-New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Kennett Square, PA, United States
| | - Nancy A Dreschel
- Department of Animal Science, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
| | - Meghan F Davis
- One Health Laboratory, Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology and Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Carey B, Dell CA, Stempien J, Tupper S, Rohr B, Carr E, Cruz M, Acoose S, Butt P, Broberg L, Collard L, Fele-Slaferek L, Fornssler C, Goodridge D, Gunderson J, McKenzie H, Rubin J, Shand J, Smith J, Trask J, Ukrainetz K, Meier S. Outcomes of a controlled trial with visiting therapy dog teams on pain in adults in an emergency department. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262599. [PMID: 35263346 PMCID: PMC9064456 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Pain is a primary reason individuals attend an Emergency Department (ED), and its management is a concern. OBJECTIVES Change in symptoms and physiologic variables at 3 time points pre-post a ten-minute St. John Ambulance therapy dog team visit compared to no visit in ED patients who experienced pain. DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Using a controlled clinical trial design, pain, anxiety, depression and well-being were measured with the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (revised version) (ESAS-r) 11-point rating scales before, immediately after, and 20 minutes post- therapy dog team visit with Royal University Hospital ED patients participating in the study (n = 97). Blood pressure and heart rate were recorded at the time points. Control data was gathered twice (30 minutes apart) for comparison (n = 101). There were no group differences in age, gender or ethnicity among the control and intervention groups (respectively mean age 59.5/57.2, ethnicity 77.2% Caucasian/87.6%, female 43.6% /39.2%, male 56.4%/60.8%,). INTERVENTION 10 minute therapy dog team visit in addition to usual care. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Change in reported pain from pre and post therapy dog team visit and comparison with a control group. RESULTS A two-way ANOVA was conducted to compare group effects. Significant pre- post-intervention differences were noted in pain for the intervention (mean changeint. = -0.9, SD = 2.05, p = .004, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.42, 1.32], ηp2 = 04) but not the control group. Anxiety (mean changeint. = -1.13, SD = 2.80, p = .005, 95% CI = [0.56, 1.64], ηp2 = .04), depression (mean changeint. = -0.72, SD = 1.71, p = .002, 95% CI = [0.39, 1.11], ηp2 = .047), and well-being ratings (mean changeint. = -0.87, SD = 1.84, p < .001, 95% CI = [0.49, 1.25], ηp2 = .07) similarly improved for the intervention group only. There were no pre-post intervention differences in blood pressure or heart rate for either group. Strong responders to the intervention (i.e. >50% reduction) were observed for pain (43%), anxiety (48%), depression (46%), and well-being (41%). CONCLUSIONS Clinically significant changes in pain as well as significant changes in anxiety, depression and well-being were observed in the therapy dog intervention compared to control. The findings of this novel study contribute important knowledge towards the potential value of ED therapy dogs to affect patients' experience of pain, and related measures of anxiety, depression and well-being. TRIAL REGISTRATION This controlled clinical trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, registration number NCT04727749.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ben Carey
- Department of Sociology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon,
Canada
| | - Colleen Anne Dell
- Department of Sociology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon,
Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - James Stempien
- College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon,
Canada
| | - Susan Tupper
- Quality, Safety & Standards, Saskatchewan Health Authority,
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Betty Rohr
- Department of Sociology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon,
Canada
| | - Eloise Carr
- Faculty of Nursing University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta,
Canada
| | - Maria Cruz
- Department of Sociology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon,
Canada
| | - Sharon Acoose
- School of Indigenous Social Work, First Nations University of Canada,
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Peter Butt
- College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon,
Canada
| | - Lindsey Broberg
- College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon,
Canada
| | - Lisa Collard
- Emergency Services, Saskatchewan Health Authority, Saskatoon,
Saskatchewan, Canada
| | | | - Cathie Fornssler
- Saskatchewan Centre for Patient Oriented Research, University of
Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Donna Goodridge
- College of Nursing & Respirology, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine,
University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Janet Gunderson
- Saskatchewan Centre for Patient Oriented Research, University of
Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Holly McKenzie
- Department of Sociology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon,
Canada
| | - Joe Rubin
- Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon,
Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Jason Shand
- Clinical Analyst, Saskatchewan Health Authority, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan,
Canada
| | - Jane Smith
- St. John Ambulance, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Jason Trask
- Emergency Services, Saskatchewan Health Authority, Saskatoon,
Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Kerry Ukrainetz
- Saskatchewan Centre for Patient Oriented Research, University of
Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Simona Meier
- Clinical Research Professional Clinical Trial Support Unit, University of
Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
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
|
16
|
Brelsford VL, Dimolareva M, Rowan E, Gee NR, Meints K. Can dog-assisted and relaxation interventions boost spatial ability in children with and without special educational needs? A longitudinal, randomized controlled trial. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:886324. [PMID: 35979404 PMCID: PMC9376734 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.886324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Children's spatial cognition abilities are a vital part of their learning and cognitive development, and important for their problem-solving capabilities, the development of mathematical skills and progress in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) topics. As many children have difficulties with STEM topic areas, and as these topics have suffered a decline in uptake in students, it is worthwhile to find out how learning and performance can be enhanced at an early age. The current study is the first to investigate if dog-assisted and relaxation interventions can improve spatial abilities in school children. It makes a novel contribution to empirical research by measuring longitudinally if an Animal-Assisted Intervention (AAI) or relaxation intervention can boost children's development of spatial abilities. Randomized controlled trials were employed over time including dog intervention, relaxation intervention and no treatment control groups. Interventions were carried out over 4 weeks, twice a week for 20 min. Children were tested in mainstream schools (N = 105) and in special educational needs (SEN) schools (N = 64) before and after interventions, after 6 weeks, 6 months and 1 year. To assess intervention type and to provide advice for subsequent best practice recommendations, dog-assisted interventions were run as individual or small group interventions. Overall, children's spatial abilities improved over the year with highest increases in the first 4 months. In Study 1, typically developing children showed higher scores and more continuous learning overall compared to children with special educational needs. Children in the dog intervention group showed higher spatial ability scores immediately after interventions and after a further 6 weeks (short-term). Children in the relaxation group also showed improved scores short-term after relaxation intervention. In contrast, the no treatment control group did not improve significantly. No long-term effects were observed. Interestingly, no gender differences could be observed in mainstream school children's spatial skills. In study 2, children in SEN schools saw immediate improvements in spatial abilities after relaxation intervention sessions. No changes were seen after dog interventions or in the no treatment control group. Participants' pet ownership status did not have an effect in either cohort. These are the first findings showing that AAI and relaxation interventions benefit children's spatial abilities in varied educational settings. This research represents an original contribution to Developmental Psychology and to the field of Human-Animal Interaction (HAI) and is an important step towards further in-depth investigation of how AAI and relaxation interventions can help children achieve their learning potential, both in mainstream schools and in schools for SEN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mirena Dimolareva
- School of Science, Department of Psychology, Bath Spa University, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Elise Rowan
- School of Psychology, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| | - Nancy R Gee
- Centre for Human-Animal Interaction, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Kerstin Meints
- School of Psychology, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Barcelos AM, Kargas N, Maltby J, Hall S, Assheton P, Mills DS. Theoretical Foundations to the Impact of Dog-Related Activities on Human Hedonic Well-Being, Life Satisfaction and Eudaimonic Well-Being. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:12382. [PMID: 34886109 PMCID: PMC8656591 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Cross-sectional comparisons of well-being between dog owners and non-owners commonly generate inconsistent results. Focusing on the uniqueness of the relationship might help address this issue and provide a stronger foundation for dog-related psychotherapeutic interventions. This study aims to evaluate the impact of dog-related activities (e.g., exercising the dog) on owner hedonic well-being, life satisfaction and eudaimonic well-being. It was also hypothesised that psychological closeness to the dog would affect these well-being outcomes. For this study, 1030 dog owners aged over 18 years old answered an online questionnaire about the impact of 15 groups of dog-related activities on their well-being. Ordinal regressions were used to estimate the mean response (and its uncertainty) for each outcome, while conditioning for psychological closeness to the dog and controlling for several key covariates. Tactile interactions and dog playing were significantly more beneficial than other activities for hedonic well-being, and dog training and dog presence for eudaimonic well-being. In contrast, dog health issues and behavioural problems were linked to decrements in these well-being outcomes. Higher psychological closeness to the dog predicted greater improvement in well-being in positive dog-related activities. Our quantitative study validates the general findings of previous qualitative work and lays the groundwork for future longitudinal studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Niko Kargas
- School of Psychology, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7TS, UK;
| | - John Maltby
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK;
| | - Sophie Hall
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
| | - Phil Assheton
- Department of Statistics, StatsAdvice.com, Ltd., 10551 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Daniel S. Mills
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7TS, UK;
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Mota-Rojas D, Marcet-Rius M, Ogi A, Hernández-Ávalos I, Mariti C, Martínez-Burnes J, Mora-Medina P, Casas A, Domínguez A, Reyes B, Gazzano A. Current Advances in Assessment of Dog's Emotions, Facial Expressions, and Their Use for Clinical Recognition of Pain. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:3334. [PMID: 34828066 PMCID: PMC8614696 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113334] [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: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Animals' facial expressions are involuntary responses that serve to communicate the emotions that individuals feel. Due to their close co-existence with humans, broad attention has been given to identifying these expressions in certain species, especially dogs. This review aims to analyze and discuss the advances in identifying the facial expressions of domestic dogs and their clinical utility in recognizing pain as a method to improve daily practice and, in an accessible and effective way, assess the health outcome of dogs. This study focuses on aspects related to the anatomy and physiology of facial expressions in dogs, their emotions, and evaluations of their eyebrows, eyes, lips, and ear positions as changes that reflect pain or nociception. In this regard, research has found that dogs have anatomical configurations that allow them to generate changes in their expressions that similar canids-wolves, for example-cannot produce. Additionally, dogs can perceive emotions similar to those of their human tutors due to close human-animal interaction. This phenomenon-called "emotional contagion"-is triggered precisely by the dog's capacity to identify their owners' gestures and then react by emitting responses with either similar or opposed expressions that correspond to positive or negative stimuli, respectively. In conclusion, facial expressions are essential to maintaining social interaction between dogs and other species, as in their bond with humans. Moreover, this provides valuable information on emotions and the perception of pain, so in dogs, they can serve as valuable elements for recognizing and evaluating pain in clinical settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Mota-Rojas
- Neurophysiology of Pain, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM), Mexico City 04960, Mexico; (A.C.); (A.D.); (B.R.)
| | - Míriam Marcet-Rius
- Animal Behaviour and Welfare Department, IRSEA (Research Institute in Semiochemistry and Applied Ethology), Quartier Salignan, 84400 Apt, France;
| | - Asahi Ogi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.O.); (C.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Ismael Hernández-Ávalos
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clinical Pharmacology and Veterinary Anaesthesia, FESC, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuautitlán Izcalli 54714, Mexico;
| | - Chiara Mariti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.O.); (C.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Julio Martínez-Burnes
- Animal Health Group, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, Victoria City 87000, Mexico;
| | - Patricia Mora-Medina
- Department of Livestock Science, FESC, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuautitlán Izcalli 54714, Mexico;
| | - Alejandro Casas
- Neurophysiology of Pain, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM), Mexico City 04960, Mexico; (A.C.); (A.D.); (B.R.)
| | - Adriana Domínguez
- Neurophysiology of Pain, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM), Mexico City 04960, Mexico; (A.C.); (A.D.); (B.R.)
| | - Brenda Reyes
- Neurophysiology of Pain, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM), Mexico City 04960, Mexico; (A.C.); (A.D.); (B.R.)
| | - Angelo Gazzano
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (A.O.); (C.M.); (A.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Valencak TG, Csiszar A, Szalai G, Podlutsky A, Tarantini S, Fazekas-Pongor V, Papp M, Ungvari Z. Animal reservoirs of SARS-CoV-2: calculable COVID-19 risk for older adults from animal to human transmission. GeroScience 2021; 43:2305-2320. [PMID: 34460063 PMCID: PMC8404404 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-021-00444-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The current COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the highly contagious respiratory pathogen SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), has already claimed close to three million lives. SARS-CoV-2 is a zoonotic disease: it emerged from a bat reservoir and it can infect a number of agricultural and companion animal species. SARS-CoV-2 can cause respiratory and intestinal infections, and potentially systemic multi-organ disease, in both humans and animals. The risk for severe illness and death with COVID-19 significantly increases with age, with older adults at highest risk. To combat the pandemic and protect the most susceptible group of older adults, understanding the human-animal interface and its relevance to disease transmission is vitally important. Currently high infection numbers are being sustained via human-to-human transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Yet, identifying potential animal reservoirs and potential vectors of the disease will contribute to stronger risk assessment strategies. In this review, the current information about SARS-CoV-2 infection in animals and the potential spread of SARS-CoV-2 to humans through contact with domestic animals (including dogs, cats, ferrets, hamsters), agricultural animals (e.g., farmed minks), laboratory animals, wild animals (e.g., deer mice), and zoo animals (felines, non-human primates) are discussed with a special focus on reducing mortality in older adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teresa G Valencak
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
- Department of Biosciences, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstrasse 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Anna Csiszar
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Neurodegeneration Program, Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- International Training Program in Geroscience, Doctoral School of Basic and Translational Medicine/Department of Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gabor Szalai
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine, Las Cruces, NM, USA
| | - Andrej Podlutsky
- Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska, Fairbanks, AK, USA
| | - Stefano Tarantini
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Neurodegeneration Program, Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- International Training Program in Geroscience, Doctoral School of Basic and Translational Medicine/Department of Public Health, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Vince Fazekas-Pongor
- International Training Program in Geroscience, Doctoral School of Basic and Translational Medicine/Department of Public Health, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Magor Papp
- International Training Program in Geroscience, Doctoral School of Basic and Translational Medicine/Department of Public Health, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltan Ungvari
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Neurodegeneration Program, Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- International Training Program in Geroscience, Doctoral School of Basic and Translational Medicine/Department of Public Health, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Artemiou E, Hutchison P, Machado M, Ellis D, Bradtke J, Pereira MM, Carter J, Bergfelt D. Impact of Human-Animal Interactions on Psychological and Physiological Factors Associated With Veterinary School Students and Donkeys. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:701302. [PMID: 34497840 PMCID: PMC8420806 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.701302] [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: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There has been an increased interest in evaluating human-animal interactions and assessing the mutual health and wellbeing. In this study, first-year female and male veterinary school students not paired (n = 58) or paired (n = 25) with immature (≤9 mo) donkeys (n = 13) were engaged in three different types of interactions (1st, hands-off remote learning, 2nd, hands-on passive learning, and 3rd, hands-on active learning) for 30 min each during Week 2 (Time 1), Weeks 5-8 (Time 2), and Week 12 (Time 3) over three, 15-week periods. Student psychological data involved the Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ) scores collected from the interactive (student-donkey pairs) and non-interactive (no student-donkey pairs) groups and modified Comfort from Companion Animals Scale (CCAS) scores collected from the interactive group during Times 1, 2, and 3. Donkey physiological data involved collection of saliva within 10 min pre- and post-interaction during Times 1, 2, and 3 in association with the different types of interactions for immunoanalysis of cortisol. There were no significant effects of the various times and types of interactions on CCAS scores. While there were no significant effects of group and types of interactions on PSWQ scores, there was an effect (P = 0.01) of time. Overall mean PSWQ scores were significantly lower during Week 12 versus Week 2. Correspondingly, while there were no effects pre- vs. post-interaction within or among times on saliva cortisol concentrations in donkeys, there was an effect (P = 0.02) of the type of interaction. Mean concentrations were significantly lower with the hands-on passive and hands-on active learning versus the hands-off remote learning. In conclusion, while this study provides preliminary evidence surrounding student donkey interactions, future studies are required with more comprehensive designs to clarify these benefits and better understand the advantages and challenges surrounding student-donkey interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elpida Artemiou
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | | | - Marcus Machado
- Research Laboratory, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Daria Ellis
- Ross University School of Medicine, Miramar, FL, United States
| | - Jennifer Bradtke
- Counseling Center, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Mary Mauldin Pereira
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Julia Carter
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Don Bergfelt
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Hallez Q, Baltenneck N, Galiano AR. When Dogs Shrink the Typical Lengthening Effect Caused by Negative Emotions. Exp Psychol 2021; 68:94-106. [PMID: 34405692 PMCID: PMC8820265 DOI: 10.1027/1618-3169/a000515] [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] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract. This paper examines how dogs can modulate the effects of
emotion on time perception. To this end, participants performed a temporal
bisection task with stimulus durations presented in the form of neutral or
emotional facial expressions (angry, sad, and happy faces). In the first
experiment, dog owners were compared with nondog owners, while in the second
experiment, students were randomly assigned to one of the three waiting groups
(waiting alone, with another person, or with a dog) before being confronted with
the temporal bisection task. The results showed that dogs allowed the
participants to regulate the intensity of negative emotional effects, while no
statistical differences emerged for the happy facial expressions. In certain
circumstances, dogs could even lead the subjects to generate underestimation of
time when faced with negative facial expressions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Quentin Hallez
- Department of Psychology, Unité de recherche DIPHE (Développement Individu Processus Handicap Education), University Lumiere Lyon 2, Bron, France
| | - Nicolas Baltenneck
- Department of Psychology, Unité de recherche DIPHE (Développement Individu Processus Handicap Education), University Lumiere Lyon 2, Bron, France
| | - Anna-Rita Galiano
- Department of Psychology, Unité de recherche DIPHE (Développement Individu Processus Handicap Education), University Lumiere Lyon 2, Bron, France
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Rathish D, Rajapakse RPVJ, Weerakoon KGAD. The role of cortisol in the association of canine-companionship with blood pressure, glucose, and lipids: a systematic review. High Blood Press Cardiovasc Prev 2021; 28:447-455. [PMID: 34351596 DOI: 10.1007/s40292-021-00469-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The dog is known as man's best friend and canine-companionship is associated with positive effects on cardiovascular health. AIM We aim to review the role of cortisol in the association of canine-companionship with human blood pressure, glucose and lipid profile. METHODS Electronic databases, and reference lists of the selected articles were searched for original articles in English which evaluate the role of cortisol in the association of canine-companionship with human blood pressure, glucose and lipid profile. Appropriate tools from the National Institute of Health were used for the quality assessment. RESULTS Of the 2108 articles included for screening, 6 studies fulfilled the selection criteria. The USA had produced the highest number of studies (50%, 3/6). Pre-post studies (83%, 5/6) were the predominant type, and the overall quality of the selected studies was acceptable. The majority of studies showed a significant reduction of cortisol with dog companionship or therapy (67%, 4/6) along with a significant reduction of heart rate (2/4), systolic blood pressure (1/4), mean arterial blood pressure (1/4), or total cholesterol level (1/4). The role of cortisol in the association of canine-companionship with human blood pressure, glucose and lipid profile was scarcely studied with no studies from lower-middle-income countries, where the disease burden is on the rise. CONCLUSION A significant reduction of few cardiovascular risk factors was found along with a significant reduction of cortisol in canine companionship in few studies. Future comparative or higher-level studies are essential on the association between canine companionship, cortisol and cardiovascular risk factors, especially in lower-middle-income countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Rathish
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka.
| | - R P V J Rajapakse
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - K G A D Weerakoon
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Wirobski G, Range F, Schaebs FS, Palme R, Deschner T, Marshall-Pescini S. Life experience rather than domestication accounts for dogs' increased oxytocin release during social contact with humans. Sci Rep 2021; 11:14423. [PMID: 34257399 PMCID: PMC8277847 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-93922-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Dogs' increased human-directed sociability compared to wolves may be the result of increased oxytocin system activity and decreased stress responses, but comparative studies accounting for life experience are lacking. We compared hand-raised, pack-living wolves' and dogs' behavior and hormone concentrations after interacting with a closely bonded and a familiar human. Both preferred the bonded partner, but dogs showed less variability in human-directed sociability than wolves. Physical contact was not associated with oxytocin but correlated positively with glucocorticoids in the pack-living animals when the human was not bonded. To clarify the role of life experience, we tested pet dogs and found that oxytocin concentrations correlated positively with physical contact with their owners, while glucocorticoids remained unaffected. Results show that, given similar experiences, wolf-dog differences in human-directed sociability and associated hormones are subtle and indicate that factors related to life as a pet dog rather than domestication account for oxytocin release during human-dog interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gwendolyn Wirobski
- Domestication Lab, Wolf Science Center, Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Friederike Range
- Domestication Lab, Wolf Science Center, Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Franka S Schaebs
- University of Leipzig, ZLS, Prager Str. 34, 04317, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Rupert Palme
- Unit of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Tobias Deschner
- Interim Group Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Deutscher Platz 6, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Sarah Marshall-Pescini
- Domestication Lab, Wolf Science Center, Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Robinson LA. Dog Ownership Is the Best Preventive 'Medicine' for Patients. Am J Med 2021; 134:710-712. [PMID: 33621539 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2021.01.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lary A Robinson
- Division of Thoracic Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Fla.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Thodberg K, Videbech PB, Hansen TGB, Pedersen AB, Christensen JW. Dog visits in nursing homes - increase complexity or keep it simple? A randomised controlled study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251571. [PMID: 34038451 PMCID: PMC8153477 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To compare the immediate response of nursing home residents to dog visits with or without an activity, and the impact of cognitive ability. Methods In a randomly controlled trial, 174 nursing home residents were allocated to 12 bi-weekly 10-minute visits: either ordinary dog visits (D, n = 57, 49 analysed), dog visits with an activity (DA, n = 56, 48 analysed), or visits with activity but no dog (A, n = 61, 54 analysed). We recorded frequency and duration of residents’ verbal and physical interactions with the dog and persons. Data were analysed in three periods of four visits (period 1–3) as binomial variables (generalised linear models) or durations (non-parametric statistics). Results Both visit type and impairment level affected the likelihood of interacting with the dog (D and DA). In some periods increased cognitive impairment lowered odds of touching the dog in DA visits (period 1: F1,85 = 5.17, P < 0.05) and talking to it directly (period 1: F1,90 = 4.60, P < 0.05; period 3: F1,87 = 5.34, P < 0.05). Throughout, residents talked less to persons during DA visits compared to D and A (P = 0.01–0.05), and level of cognitive impairment correlated negatively with talk duration (P < 0.001). Generally, high cognitive impairment level lowered odds of interacting with (period 1: F1,89 = 7.89, P < 0.01; period 2: F1,97 = 6.76, P = 0.01; period 3: F1,92 = 13.57, P < 0.001) and talking about the activities (period 1: F1,89 = 13.78, P <0.001; period 2: F1,88 = 3.27, P = 0.07; period 3: F1,86 = 3.88, P = 0.05). Conclusion Visits without specific activities stimulated residents to interact with the dog, whereas increasing the complexity of dog visits by adding activities resulted in less interaction with the dog for severely impaired residents. The optimal dog visit for the less cognitively impaired residents could include activities and thereby a possibility to interact with the dog in different ways, whereas for severely impaired residents, just being with the dog seems more appropriate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Thodberg
- Department of Animal Science, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Tia G. B. Hansen
- Center for Developmental and Applied Psychological Science, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
López-Arjona M, Mateo SV, Cerón JJ, Martínez-Subiela S. Changes in salivary oxytocin after stroking in dogs: Validation of two assays for its assessment. Res Vet Sci 2021; 136:527-534. [PMID: 33882381 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin is currently of high interest as a biomarker of welfare and stress in humans and animals. The purpose of this study was to validate two new assays (one using a monoclonal antibody and the other using a polyclonal antibody) for the oxytocin measurement in the saliva of dogs. For this purpose, an analytical validation was performed, and these assays were applied in an experimental trial in which dogs were stroked by their owners. In the experimental trial, saliva samples of 17 dogs were collected by the owners at three different times: a basal sample, at the end of 10 min of an affiliative interaction with their owners consisting of stroking and 15 min after the end of the affiliative interaction. The dogs were separated into two groups (group 1, n = 8 and group 2, n = 9) according to the acceptance of the sponge and the response to the stroking. Significant differences in the response of salivary oxytocin after stroking in the two groups were found when the assay with the monoclonal antibody was used. This assay showed a significant increase just after the end of affiliative interaction (P < 0.01) and 15 min after (P < 0.01) in those dogs that had a good acceptance of the sponge and the stroking induced a positive response on them (based in a Likert-type scale from 1 to 10). These data reflect that the assays used in this study can lead to different results when quantifying oxytocin in the saliva of dogs after stroking.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marina López-Arjona
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo s/n, 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
| | - Sandra V Mateo
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo s/n, 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
| | - José J Cerón
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo s/n, 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain.
| | - Silvia Martínez-Subiela
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Regional Campus of International Excellence 'Campus Mare Nostrum', University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo s/n, 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Gee NR, Rodriguez KE, Fine AH, Trammell JP. Dogs Supporting Human Health and Well-Being: A Biopsychosocial Approach. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:630465. [PMID: 33860004 PMCID: PMC8042315 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.630465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Humans have long realized that dogs can be helpful, in a number of ways, to achieving important goals. This is evident from our earliest interactions involving the shared goal of avoiding predators and acquiring food, to our more recent inclusion of dogs in a variety of contexts including therapeutic and educational settings. This paper utilizes a longstanding theoretical framework- the biopsychosocial model- to contextualize the existing research on a broad spectrum of settings and populations in which dogs have been included as an adjunct or complementary therapy to improve some aspect of human health and well-being. A wide variety of evidence is considered within key topical areas including cognition, learning disorders, neurotypical and neurodiverse populations, mental and physical health, and disabilities. A dynamic version of the biopsychosocial model is used to organize and discuss the findings, to consider how possible mechanisms of action may impact overall human health and well-being, and to frame and guide future research questions and investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nancy R Gee
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Human Animal Interaction, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Kerri E Rodriguez
- Human-Animal Bond in Colorado, School of Social Work, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - Aubrey H Fine
- Department of Education, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, CA, United States
| | - Janet P Trammell
- Division of Social Sciences and Natural Sciences, Seaver College, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Rault JL, Waiblinger S, Boivin X, Hemsworth P. The Power of a Positive Human-Animal Relationship for Animal Welfare. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:590867. [PMID: 33240961 PMCID: PMC7680732 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.590867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Domestic animals often seek and enjoy interacting with humans. Positive human-animal relationships can elicit positive emotions and other positive welfare outcomes. Nevertheless, our understanding of the underlying processes that govern the positive perception of humans by animals is incomplete. We cover the potential mechanisms involved in the development and maintenance of positive human-animal relationships from the perspective of the animal. This encompasses habituation, associative learning, and possibly attachment or bonding based on communication and social cognition. We review the indicators from the literature to assess a positive human-animal relationship. We operationally define this positive relationship as the animal showing voluntary approach and spatial proximity (seeking) and signs of anticipation, pleasure, relaxation, or other indicators of a rewarding experience from interacting with the human. For research, we recommend accounting for the baseline human-animal relationship in the animal's everyday life, and incorporating a control treatment rather than only comparing positive to negative interaction treatments. Furthermore, animal characteristics, such as previous experience, genetics, and individual predisposition, as well as contextual characteristics related to the social and physical environment, may modulate the perception of humans by animals. The human-animal relationship is also influenced by human characteristics, such as the person's familiarity to the animal, attitudes, skills, and knowledge. We highlight implications for current practices and suggest simple solutions, such as paying attention to the animal's behavioral response to humans and providing choice and control to the animal in terms of when and how to interact with humans. Practical applications to achieve a positive perception of humans could be better utilized, such as by incorporating training principles, while keeping in mind trust and safety of both partners. Overall, there is growing evidence in the scientific literature that a positive human-animal relationship can bring intrinsic rewards to the animals and thereby benefit animal welfare. Further research is needed on the underlying processes to establish an effective positive human-animal relationship, especially in regard to the type, frequency, and length of human interaction necessary. In particular, the importance of providing animals with a sense of agency over their interactions with humans remains poorly understood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Loup Rault
- Institute of Animal Welfare Science, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Susanne Waiblinger
- Institute of Animal Welfare Science, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Xavier Boivin
- Unité Mixte de Recherche sur les Herbivores, Université Clermont Auvergne, INRA, VetAgro Sup, UMR Herbivores, Saint-Genès-Champanelle, France
| | - Paul Hemsworth
- Animal Welfare Science Centre, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Moberg KU, Handlin L, Petersson M. Neuroendocrine mechanisms involved in the physiological effects caused by skin-to-skin contact – With a particular focus on the oxytocinergic system. Infant Behav Dev 2020; 61:101482. [DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2020.101482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|
30
|
Harwood-Gross A, Feldman R, Zagoory-Sharon O, Rassovsky Y. Hormonal reactivity during martial arts practice among high-risk youths. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2020; 121:104806. [PMID: 32721538 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2020.104806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Martial arts have become a popular afterschool activity for youths across the globe. Accumulating data suggest that these activities may confer substantial cognitive and psychological benefits, and recent efforts have been made to introduce martial arts training into educational and rehabilitation settings. However, few studies have examined the potential mechanisms that may underlie these benefits. The current study evaluated the reactivity of two hormones, oxytocin (OT) and cortisol (CT), thought to be respectively involved in regulating mammalian social behaviors and responsivity to stress, to a session of intensive martial arts training in samples of at high-risk and low-risk (in regular educational establishments) youths. OT and CT were measured at baseline, during peak training, and following a cool down period. Analyses revealed that high-risk youths had lower OT but similar CT baseline levels, compared to low-risk youths, prior to the martial arts session. A significant group by time interaction indicated that whereas the OT levels among low-risk youths returned to baseline levels following training, OT levels among high-risk youths remained elevated. Finally, unlike low-risk youths for whom CT levels continued to increase throughout the training session, high-risk youths showed no significant CT reactivity. This study suggests that some of the beneficial effects of martial arts may be related to hormonal processes, especially increases in OT levels, and highlights the differing effects that training may have in different populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Harwood-Gross
- Department of Psychology and Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Ruth Feldman
- Center for Developmental, Social, and Relationship Neuroscience, Interdisciplinary Center, Herzlia, Israel
| | - Orna Zagoory-Sharon
- Center for Developmental, Social, and Relationship Neuroscience, Interdisciplinary Center, Herzlia, Israel
| | - Yuri Rassovsky
- Department of Psychology and Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel; Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Clark S, Martin F, McGowan RTS, Smidt J, Anderson R, Wang L, Turpin T, Langenfeld-McCoy N, Bauer B, Mohabbat AB. The Impact of a 20-Minute Animal-Assisted Activity Session on the Physiological and Emotional States in Patients With Fibromyalgia. Mayo Clin Proc 2020; 95:2442-2461. [PMID: 32819740 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2020.04.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the direct physiological and emotional impact of an animal-assisted activity (AAA) session (a form of complementary and integrative medicine) in patients with fibromyalgia (FM). PATIENTS AND METHODS The study population consisted of 221 participants with FM who were attending Mayo Clinic's Fibromyalgia Treatment Program between August 5, 2017, and September 1, 2018. This was a randomized controlled trial. Participants were randomly assigned to either the treatment group (a 20-minute session with a certified therapy dog and handler) or the control group (a 20-minute session with a handler only). To gain a better understanding of the direct physiological and emotional effects of AAA in patients with FM, we used multiple noninvasive physiologic-emotional biomarkers, including salivary cortisol and oxytocin concentrations, tympanic membrane temperatures, and various cardiac parameters, in addition to standardized pain and mood-based questionnaires. RESULTS Results show a decrease in heart rate, an increase in heart rate variability, an increase in well-being survey scores, an increase in salivary oxytocin, and subsequent tympanic membrane temperature changes, suggesting that participants in the treatment group were in a more positive emotional-physiologic state as a result of the AAA session compared with the control group. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that a 20-minute therapy dog visit in an outpatient setting can significantly and positively impact the physical and mental health of patients with FM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Clark
- Section of Integrative Medicine and Health, Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | | | - Jessica Smidt
- Section of Integrative Medicine and Health, Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | - Lei Wang
- Nestlé Purina Research, St. Louis, MO
| | | | | | - Brent Bauer
- Section of Integrative Medicine and Health, Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Arya B Mohabbat
- Section of Integrative Medicine and Health, Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Nagasawa T, Ohta M, Uchiyama H. Effects of the characteristic temperament of cats on the emotions and hemodynamic responses of humans. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0235188. [PMID: 32584860 PMCID: PMC7316254 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0235188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cats positive effects on their owners' physiological and psychological health, including improved mood and activation of the human prefrontal cortex and inferior frontal gyrus in the brain. However, the association between the health benefits provided by cat ownership and the characteristic behaviors and reactions of cats is unclear. We recruited 29 participants to measure human prefrontal cortex activity, using functional near-infrared spectroscopy, during interactions with a cat. After the experiments, participants subjectively responded to a questionnaire regarding success rates for interactions with the cat, and completed the Self-assessment Manikin-a scale used to measure emotion. Interactions comprised eight types in four categories (touch, play, train, and feed). This study showed that interactions with a cat significantly activated the prefrontal cortex, regardless of interaction type. During training, the integral values of oxygenated hemoglobin in the left inferior frontal gyrus were the highest in all the interaction categories; however, success rates were lower than in the touch and feed interactions. Regarding the Self-assessment Manikin scores, all interaction categories showed a positive correlation between success rate and valence score, especially in the train and play interactions than in the touch and feed interactions. These results indicate that interactions with a cat activate the prefrontal cortex in humans, including the inferior frontal gyrus region. Moreover, cats' autonomous behaviors and reactions positively influenced the participants. The characteristic temperament of cats may be a key factor influencing the health benefits of owning cats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takumi Nagasawa
- Graduate School of Agriculture Studies Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Mitsuaki Ohta
- Graduate School of Agriculture Studies Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hidehiko Uchiyama
- Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Kanagawa, Japan
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Park S, Bak A, Kim S, Nam Y, Kim HS, Yoo DH, Moon M. Animal-Assisted and Pet-Robot Interventions for Ameliorating Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8060150. [PMID: 32498454 PMCID: PMC7345589 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8060150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with dementia suffer from psychological symptoms such as depression, agitation, and aggression. One purpose of dementia intervention is to manage patients’ inappropriate behaviors and psychological symptoms while taking into consideration their quality of life (QOL). Animal-assisted intervention (AAI) and pet-robot intervention (PRI) are effective intervention strategies for older people with cognitive impairment and dementia. In addition, AAI and PRI have been shown to have positive effects on behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). However, studies into the association between AAI/PRI and BPSD have elicited inconsistent results. Thus, we performed a meta-analysis to investigate this association. We analyzed nine randomized controlled trials on AAI and PRI for dementia patients published between January 2000 and August 2019 and evaluated the impact of AAI/PRI on agitation, depression, and QOL. We found that AAI and PRI significantly reduce depression in patients with dementia. Subsequent studies should investigate the impact of AAI and PRI on the physical ability and cognitive function of dementia patients and conduct a follow-up to investigate their effects on the rate of progression and reduction of symptoms of dementia. Our research will help with neuropsychological and environmental intervention to delay or improve the development and progression of BPSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sangki Park
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Korea;
| | - Ahream Bak
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Jeonju Kijeon College, 267, Jeonjucheonseo-ro, Wansan-gu, Junju 54989, Korea;
| | - Sujin Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Korea; (S.K.); (Y.N.); (H.s.K)
| | - Yunkwon Nam
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Korea; (S.K.); (Y.N.); (H.s.K)
| | - Hyeon soo Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Korea; (S.K.); (Y.N.); (H.s.K)
| | - Doo-Han Yoo
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Korea;
- Correspondence: (D.-H.Y.); ; (M.M.); Tel.: +82-42-600-8414 (D.-H.Y.); +82-42-600-8691 (M.M.)
| | - Minho Moon
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Korea; (S.K.); (Y.N.); (H.s.K)
- Correspondence: (D.-H.Y.); ; (M.M.); Tel.: +82-42-600-8414 (D.-H.Y.); +82-42-600-8691 (M.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Xu SL, Liu AP, Wu QZ, Marks T, He ZZ, Qian Z, McMillin SE, Sun J, Appleton AA, Bloom MS, Lin S, Yu HY, Zhou Y, Liu RQ, Feng D, Hu LW, Yang BY, Zeng XW, Sun X, Dong GH. Pet ownership in utero and in childhood decreases the effects of environmental tobacco smoke exposure on hypertension in children: A large population based cohort study. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 715:136859. [PMID: 32014767 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.136859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about whether exposure to pets influences the association between hypertension and environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). The current study aims to examine the interaction of pet ownership on ETS exposure and the development of hypertension in children. METHODS From 2012 to 2013, a total of 9354 children, 5 to 17 years of age, were recruited from 62 schools in seven northeastern cities. BP in children was measured and hypertension was defined as an average diastolic blood pressure (DBP) or systolic blood pressure (SBP) at or above the 95th percentile for that child's age, sex, and height. Pet ownership in three different time periods (in utero, past 2 years, and currently) and ETS exposure data were collected from parents via a questionnaire. Two-level regressions were used for the data analyses. RESULTS The data show consistent, significant interactions between exposure to pets and effects from ETS. Children who were not exposed to pets experienced stronger effects from ETS on hypertension when compared to those exposed to pets, and the protective effect of pet ownership became stronger with a greater number of pets in the home. Exposure to in utero ETS was associated with hypertension [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.32, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.13-1.54] only for those children without pet exposure in utero but not for those with pets (aOR = 0.75; 95% CI: 0.49-1.15) (pinteraction < 0.05). Moreover, household dog ownership was related to significantly lower effects of current ETS on hypertension (aOR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.61-1.05) compared with children without dogs (aOR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.11-1.44) (pinteraction = 0.001). Interaction associations between ETS and pet ownership were more robust for girls than for boys and for younger than older children. CONCLUSION This study indicates an inverse relationship between pet ownership and ETS, potentially pointing to pet ownership as protecting against the development of hypertension in children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Li Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Ai-Ping Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shiyan Prevention and Health Care Center of Baoan, Shenzhen 518101, China
| | - Qi-Zhen Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Tia Marks
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA
| | - Zhi-Zhou He
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Zhengmin Qian
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College for Public Health & Social Justice, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, MO 63104, USA
| | - Stephen Edward McMillin
- School of Social Work, College for Public Health & Social Justice, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, MO 63104, USA
| | - Jia Sun
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College for Public Health & Social Justice, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, MO 63104, USA
| | - Allison A Appleton
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA
| | - Michael S Bloom
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA; Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA
| | - Shao Lin
- School of Social Work, College for Public Health & Social Justice, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, MO 63104, USA; Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA
| | - Hong-Yao Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Ru-Qing Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Dan Feng
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Li-Wen Hu
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Bo-Yi Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xiao-Wen Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xiao Sun
- Department of Internal Medicine, Shenyang Women's and Children's Hospital, Shenyang 110011, China.
| | - Guang-Hui Dong
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Effects of Stroking on Salivary Oxytocin and Cortisol in Guide Dogs: Preliminary Results. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10040708. [PMID: 32325673 PMCID: PMC7222818 DOI: 10.3390/ani10040708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This pilot study aimed at investigating how salivary oxytocin levels are affected by human interaction and isolation in eight guide dogs (six Labrador retrievers and two golden retrievers; four males and four females, 21.87 ± 1.36 months old) just before assignment to the blind person. Each dog engaged, at one-week intervals, in a positive (5 min of affiliative interaction with their trainer) and a negative (5 min of isolation) condition. Saliva samples used for Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) quantification of salivary oxytocin were collected before and immediately after both experimental conditions. In order to assess potential hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis activation that could have affected oxytocin levels, saliva samples were collected 15 min after both experimental conditions for EIA quantification of salivary cortisol and a behavioral assessment was performed during the negative condition. The results were compared using the Wilcoxon test (p < 0.05). Oxytocin concentrations showed a statistically significant increase after the positive interaction (p = 0.036) and no difference after the negative one (p = 0.779). Moreover, no difference (p = 0.263) was found between the cortisol concentrations after each experimental condition and no signs of distress were observed during the isolation phase. These preliminary findings support the hypothesis that stroking dogs has positive effects on their emotional state independently of hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis activation.
Collapse
|
36
|
Wojtaś J, Karpiński M, Czyżowski P. Salivary Cortisol Interactions in Search and Rescue Dogs and their Handlers. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10040595. [PMID: 32244683 PMCID: PMC7222771 DOI: 10.3390/ani10040595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Stress affects both people and animals every day. Working dogs are exposed to the same stressors as their handlers during work. Our research was conducted during search and rescue dog exams. The aim of the study was to investigate if handler stress during the exam affects his or her dog’s stress level. We observed a strong relationship of salivary cortisol between the dogs and their handlers, which was most prevalent in female dogs and female handlers. Abstract Search and rescue dogs are an important link in the search for missing persons. The aim of the study was to assess exam stress in search and rescue dogs and their handlers. The study included 41 rescue teams taking exams of field and rubble specialties. The level of cortisol, which is the main glucocorticosteroid modulating stress reactions in humans and dogs, was analyzed. The biological material used to assess the hormone concentration was saliva collected in a non-invasive way. In total, 164 test samples were collected: two from the dog and two from the handler before and immediately after the exam. Rescue exams were shown to significantly increase salivary cortisol in both dogs and their handlers. Strong interactions between cortisol levels in human–dog teams were also found with a more pronounced effect in female dog–female handler dyads.
Collapse
|
37
|
Kishor M, Reddy V. Role of pet therapy in Indian mental health services and its implication on COVID-19. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH & ALLIED SCIENCES 2020; 9:382. [DOI: 10.4103/ijhas.ijhas_176_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
|
38
|
Leeds A, Good J, Schook MW, Dennis PM, Stoinski TS, Willis MA, Lukas KE. Evaluating changes in salivary oxytocin and cortisol following positive reinforcement training in two adult male western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla). Zoo Biol 2019; 39:51-55. [PMID: 31746026 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2019] [Revised: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Positive reinforcement training (PRT) is associated with increases in species-typical behavior and decreases in stereotypic and abnormal behavior in participating animals. Physiological changes following PRT, for example, increases in oxytocin (OXT) and/or decreases in cortisol (CORT), may facilitate these behavioral changes. This study evaluated salivary OXT and salivary CORT concentrations in two adult male western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) following PRT with their primary animal care staff. Following PRT, no change in OXT was observed. CORT decreased in one subject following PRT. Changes in endogenous OXT are related to affiliative interactions and interact with strongly bonded conspecifics. PRT may not activate the oxytocinergic system because PRT is not a species-specific affiliative interaction and/or animal care staff are not viewed as conspecifics. Regardless, PRT may still be viewed as a positive interaction resulting in stress reduction via a decrease in CORT. Relationships are unique, thus these results only apply to these two gorillas and one animal caregiver. Larger population-level studies are needed to understand overall trends in human-animal interactions, and ultimately human-animal relationships. Further evaluation of physiological changes following human-animal interactions should be informative for understanding the human-animal relationship in zoos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Austin Leeds
- Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, Ohio.,Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio.,Disney's Animal Kingdom®, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
| | - Julie Good
- Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, Ohio
| | | | - Patricia M Dennis
- Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, Ohio.,Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio.,Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | | | - Mark A Willis
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Kristen E Lukas
- Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, Ohio.,Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Hall SS, Brown BJ, Mills DS. Developing and Assessing the Validity of a Scale to Assess Pet Dog Quality of Life: Lincoln P-QoL. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:326. [PMID: 31616681 PMCID: PMC6775215 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
There has been little investment in exploring the impact of the child-dog relationship on the dog. Since child-dog interactions can pose potentially serious threats to a dog's physical and psychological health, as well as the wider satisfaction of the owner with their dog, we describe the development and validation of an owner-completed pet dog quality of life scale (Lincoln P-QOL), to enable professionals and families to monitor dog well-being and employ suitable interventions as required. Four-hundred and two dog-owners (194 lived with a neuro-typically developing child; 208 lived with a child with a neuro-developmental disorder) responded to an online survey. Respondents recorded whether they had observed their dog displaying any of the 22 behavioral responses which have been identified as being common in 11 child-dog interactions. These behavioral responses appeared to group into three categories of behaviors (i.e., behavioral constructs), representing Excitability, Calmness, and Fearfulness in the dog. To assess convergent validity of the quality of life scale respondents completed additional measures including, dog body condition score, health issues (incorporating psychological factors such as anxiety and physical proxies of well-being, such as skin irritations) and dog-owner relationship satisfaction. Excitability and Fearfulness constructs were associated with a negative impact on dog health and the owner-dog relationship. Calmness was associated with a positive impact on the dog-owner relationship. A range of interactions, including carefully expressed child-dog physical affection and spending quiet time together appear to had a beneficial impact on dog quality of life, whereas rough contact, child meltdowns, and grooming/bathing had a negative effect. We found little evidence to support a difference in the overall quality of life of dogs living with neuro-typically developing children compared to those with a neuro-developmental disorder. However, parents and practitioners need to be aware of the potential increased risk to dog well-being when meltdowns, grooming/bathing, and quiet time involve a child with a neuro-developmental disorder. This is the first validated scale for the assessment of dog well-being around children, additionally, the behavioral constructs identified may form the rational basis of a more general dog behavior/stress assessment tool in social situations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie S. Hall
- Animal Behaviour Cognition and Welfare Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| | - Beverley J. Brown
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel S. Mills
- Animal Behaviour Cognition and Welfare Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Rassovsky Y, Harwood A, Zagoory-Sharon O, Feldman R. Martial arts increase oxytocin production. Sci Rep 2019; 9:12980. [PMID: 31506582 PMCID: PMC6736948 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-49620-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have demonstrated that oxytocin (OT), a peptide hormone, plays an important role in regulating mammalian social behaviors, linking it to social affiliation in parent-infant attachment, romantic and filial relationships, and other prosocial behaviors, such as trust and cooperation. Not surprisingly, research efforts have been made to increase endogenous levels of OT. In the present study, we investigated whether traditional martial arts training, which integrates the natural benefits of physical exercise with dyadic prosocial interaction, would result in OT response. To this end, 68 beginner and advanced participants were recruited from several schools practicing Jujitsu ("soft art"), a form of traditional martial arts originating in Japan. Salivary OT levels were assessed at baseline, immediately following high-intensity training, and following a cool-down period. Analyses revealed a significant increase in OT immediately after a high-intensity training, returning to baseline levels following a cool-down period. Additionally, although no significant difference between beginner and advanced martial artists was found, a significantly higher increase in salivary OT followed ground grappling, as compared to "punch-kick" sparring, indicating an added benefit of close contact tactile interaction. These results suggest that the reportedly socially beneficial effects of traditional martial arts may be in part mediated by OT release and underscore the potentially therapeutic applications of these methods for disorders involving social dysfunction, such as autism, conduct problems, or schizophrenia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuri Rassovsky
- Department of Psychology and Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel. .,Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Anna Harwood
- Department of Psychology and Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Orna Zagoory-Sharon
- Center for Developmental, Social, and Relationship Neuroscience, Interdisciplinary Center, Herzliya, Israel
| | - Ruth Feldman
- Center for Developmental, Social, and Relationship Neuroscience, Interdisciplinary Center, Herzliya, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
The "pet effect" in cancer patients: Risks and benefits of human-pet interaction. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2019; 143:56-61. [PMID: 31479836 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2019.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
"Can I keep my dog while receiving chemotherapy?" "Can my cat sleep on my bed while I'm on treatment?" "What precautions should I take with my pets in order to avoid infections?"" I read that my dog could give me breast cancer, is that true?" "Do you have assistance therapy dogs at your chemotherapy day unit?" These are not uncommon questions from cancer patients in oncology/haematology consultation rooms. The answers to these questions however, are widely unknown among physicians. Pet ownership is thought to provide patients with both emotional and physical health benefits. However, owning pets may also pose health risks to immunocompromised patients through zoonotic transmission of disease. Some studies have also suggested that the ownership of domestic pets may increase the risk of developing some cancers. But what is the evidence behind these claims? This paper presents the results of a literature review of a variety of scientific literature about pet ownership as a potential risk factor for suffering cancer, zoonotic diseases and the immunocompromised, and animal-assisted-therapy in cancer patients.
Collapse
|
42
|
Exploratory Investigation of Infrared Thermography for Measuring Gorilla Emotional Responses to Interactions with Familiar Humans. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9090604. [PMID: 31450716 PMCID: PMC6770422 DOI: 10.3390/ani9090604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Interactions between zoo professionals and animals, such as positive reinforcement training, occur regularly and are thought to be enriching for animals. However, there is little empirical information on how animals perceive these interactions or on the interactions’ effects on animals’ emotional states. Our objective was to assess the effectiveness of infrared thermography for measuring the emotional responses of three western lowland gorillas at the Detroit Zoo to routine interactions (positive reinforcement training and cognitive tasks) with familiar humans. In addition to thermal images, we collected saliva samples for hormone analysis before and after human–animal interactions and a control condition, and we recorded behavioral data during all conditions. Nasal temperatures consistently decreased for two gorillas during interactions, while the third gorilla showed repeated increases. The behavior of all three gorillas suggested that they were engaged in the interactions, without exhibiting behaviors that could indicate negative welfare impacts. Oxytocin and cortisol both decreased following all conditions, including the control, and were thus equivocal for interpreting the meaning of the changes in nasal temperature. As mixed results in previous research show, infrared thermography may detect emotional arousal; however, additional indicators are necessary to determine the valence of the observed changes. The variability in responses we observed do not lend themselves to making firm conclusions about the validity of infrared thermography (IRT) for measuring emotion in this context or about how these gorillas responded to interactions. Challenges and suggestions for future studies using infrared thermography to examine interactions between humans and zoo animals are discussed. Abstract Interactions between zoo professionals and animals occur regularly and are believed to be enriching for animals. Little empirical information exists on how animals perceive these interactions, and particularly how the interactions affect the emotional states of animals. Infrared thermography (IRT) has shown some promise in the assessment of emotions in a variety of species, but further research is needed to determine if this method is useful in a zoo setting. We conducted a pilot study to determine if IRT is a valid measure of the emotional responses to routine interactions (positive reinforcement training and cognitive tasks, compared to a control condition) with familiar humans on three western lowland gorillas at the Detroit Zoo. We measured nasal temperatures associated with emotional change using IRT. To examine the validity of the IRT data, we collected saliva samples for hormone analysis before and after each condition, in addition to behavioral data during the interactions and control condition. Decreases in nasal temperatures for two gorillas and an increase in the third indicate that arousal changed consistently within individuals following the interactions but not the control condition. Pre-post cortisol levels and oxytocin concentrations decreased for all conditions, but the decreases seen did not differ among the conditions. The gorillas were highly engaged in the interactions, and two produced more grumble vocalizations during the human-animal interactions (HAIs) compared to the control condition. Additionally, the gorillas performed self-directed behaviors more often during the control condition, also suggesting HAIs were not a negative experience. In summary, we were able to measure changes in arousal using IRT, but we were unable to determine the emotional valence of these changes based on the additional indicators employed. Additionally, the inconsistency across these measures precluded firm conclusions about either the validity of IRT for measuring emotion in this context or how the interactions impacted these gorillas. These findings highlight the challenges of using IRT to measure emotional states in non-human animals, and we discuss further steps necessary to apply this method in future studies.
Collapse
|
43
|
A modest protective association between pet ownership and cardiovascular diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216231. [PMID: 31050670 PMCID: PMC6499429 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Investigate the relationship between pet ownership and cardiovascular (CV) outcomes. Methods We searched the PubMed, Ovid EMBASE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases up to August 2018. Eligible publications examining the association between pet ownership and all-cause and CV mortality (primary outcomes) and risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD), myocardial infarction (MI), and stroke (secondary outcomes) were included. We used the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale to assess the quality of the articles. Results We included 12 studies, involving 488,986 participants (52.3% female, mean age 56.1 years), in our systematic review. The mean follow-up duration was 8.7 ± 6.3 years. Pet ownership had no association with adjusted all-cause mortality (odds ratio, OR = 1.01, 95% confidence interval, CI [0.94, 1.08], I2 = 76%), adjusted CV mortality (OR = 0.87, 95% CI [0.75, 1.00], I2 = 72%), or risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) (OR = 0.87, 95% CI [0.72, 1.05], I2 = 73%), myocardial infarction (MI) (OR = 0.99, 95% CI [0.97, 1.01], I2 = 0%), or stroke (OR = 0.99, 95% CI [0.98, 1.01], I2 = 0%). However, subgroup analysis showed that pet ownership was associated with a lower adjusted CV mortality in the general population (OR = 0.93, 95% CI [0.86, 0.99], I2 = 27%) than in CVD patients. In patients with established CVD, pet ownership was associated with a lower adjusted CVD risk (OR = 0.71, 95% CI [0.60, 0.84], I2 = 0%). Conclusion Pet ownership is not associated with adjusted all-cause or CV mortality, or risk of CVD, MI, or stroke, but it is associated with a lower adjusted CV mortality in the general population and a lower CVD risk in patients with established CVD.
Collapse
|
44
|
Rault JL, Truong S, Hemsworth L, Le Chevoir M, Bauquier S, Lai A. Gentle abdominal stroking ('belly rubbing') of pigs by a human reduces EEG total power and increases EEG frequencies. Behav Brain Res 2019; 374:111892. [PMID: 30959126 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2019.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The neurobiological response to gentle touch remains poorly understood, especially in the context of human-animal interaction. A novel approach allowed recording the pig electroencephalogram (EEG) cranially epidurally and wirelessly during positive interactions with a human. Stroking of the pig's abdomen ('belly rubbing'), applied opportunistically, elicited a distinct behavioral response characterized by lateral recumbency, limb stretching, frequent short-lasting grunts and eye closure. Pigs varied in their responsiveness to belly rubbing but all pigs showed it. Their EEG was compared to EEG during human presence and other positive interactions except belly rubbing; isolation; and in the home pen as a baseline. Total EEG power ('Ptot') was lower during belly rubbing, whereas the median frequency ('F50', 5.3 ± 0.9 Hz vs. 3.8 ± 0.9 Hz for other contexts) and the 95% spectral edge frequency ('F95', 45.2 ± 3.2 Hz vs. 40.0 ± 3.2 Hz for other contexts) were higher during belly rubbing compared to other contexts. Lower EEG total power combined with a shift in spectral power distribution toward higher frequencies were linked to behavioral changes indicative of a positive welfare state during belly rubbing. The effects of belly rubbing on animal psychobiology and well-being warrant further research as a model of positive welfare state induced by touch.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Loup Rault
- Institute of Animal Welfare Science, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, A-1210, Austria.
| | - Suzanne Truong
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Lauren Hemsworth
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Matthias Le Chevoir
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Sebastien Bauquier
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Alan Lai
- Department of Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, The University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Powell L, Guastella AJ, McGreevy P, Bauman A, Edwards KM, Stamatakis E. The physiological function of oxytocin in humans and its acute response to human-dog interactions: A review of the literature. J Vet Behav 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2018.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
|
46
|
Herbeck YE, Gulevich RG. Neuropeptides as facilitators of domestication. Cell Tissue Res 2018; 375:295-307. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-018-2939-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
|
47
|
Mota Pereira J, Fonte D. Pets enhance antidepressant pharmacotherapy effects in patients with treatment resistant major depressive disorder. J Psychiatr Res 2018; 104:108-113. [PMID: 30025233 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2018.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Treatment resistant major depressive disorder (TR-MDD) is a severe disease, with very low remission rates. The resistance to pharmacotherapy leads to the search of non-pharmacological alternative approaches. Animal therapy has been used in patients with psychiatric conditions and the results have been promising. However, there have been no studies in TR-MDD patients with pet adoption. This study assessed the impact of TR-MDD patients adopting a pet. Eighty patients were suggested to adopt a pet, and 33 accepted the challenge. Other 33 patients constituted the control group (did not accept the suggestion of pet adoption and did not already have a pet). All patients maintained their usual pharmacotherapy. All participants were evaluated at baseline, 4, 8 and 12 weeks for depressive symptoms using HAMD17 and GAF. Results show that the pet group had an improvement in HAMD17 and GAF scores as well as higher response and remission rates compared to the control group, where no patient responded or remitted. Therefore, pets can be used as an effective adjuvant to pharmacotherapy with regular medical appointments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniela Fonte
- Clínica Médico-Psiquiátrica da Ordem, Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Leggieri LR, Marozzi A, Panebianco A, Gregorio P, Carmanchahi P. Effects of Short-Distance Recreational Mushing on Oxytocin, Gastrin, and Creatinine Kinase in Sled Dogs. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2018; 22:320-328. [PMID: 30058379 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2018.1500287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
A considerable increase in creatinine kinase (CK) activity and gastrin hormone due to exercise has been observed in sled dogs during endurance mushing races; however, there have been no studies on sled dogs during recreational mushing. Although oxytocin hormone is involved in social behaviors and empathy, it has not been studied in sled dogs. This study aimed to assess changes in plasma CK activity, and gastrin and oxytocin concentrations in adult sled dogs used in touristic mushing in North Patagonia, Argentina. Blood samples were collected before, during, and after the winter season of 2017. Creatinine kinase activity measurement was done using an enzymatic assay. Hormone analyses were performed using commercial Enzyme-Linked InmunoSorbent Assay kits. Results showed an expected two-fold increase in CK activity during the winter, with recovering basal values after winter (< 400 UI/L), low and stable levels of gastrin (9.4 ± 8.8 pg/mL), and a slight increase in oxytocin (23%) after mushing activities. No evidence indicated gastrin alterations or muscular damage from touristic mushing, but an oxytocin increase would indicate a stimulation of the brain reward system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Ramón Leggieri
- Wildlife Ecophysiology Research Group, INIBIOMA - National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET) - AUSMA - National University of Comahue , San Martín de los Andes , Neuquén , Argentina
| | - Antonela Marozzi
- Wildlife Ecophysiology Research Group, INIBIOMA - National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET) - AUSMA - National University of Comahue , San Martín de los Andes , Neuquén , Argentina
| | - Antonella Panebianco
- Wildlife Ecophysiology Research Group, INIBIOMA - National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET) - AUSMA - National University of Comahue , San Martín de los Andes , Neuquén , Argentina
| | - Pablo Gregorio
- Wildlife Ecophysiology Research Group, INIBIOMA - National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET) - AUSMA - National University of Comahue , San Martín de los Andes , Neuquén , Argentina
| | - Pablo Carmanchahi
- Wildlife Ecophysiology Research Group, INIBIOMA - National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET) - AUSMA - National University of Comahue , San Martín de los Andes , Neuquén , Argentina
| |
Collapse
|