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Malkani R, Paramasivam S, Wolfensohn S. How does chronic pain impact the lives of dogs: an investigation of factors that are associated with pain using the Animal Welfare Assessment Grid. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1374858. [PMID: 38638643 PMCID: PMC11025458 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1374858] [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: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Chronic pain can profoundly affect the wellbeing of dogs and our understanding is limited regarding the multidimensional impact it has on dog quality of life. This study aimed to assess the factors that are significant and predictive of behavior problems in dogs using the Animal Welfare Assessment Grid (AWAG) to further understand what factors influence their welfare. Methods Seventy six AWAG assessments were undertaken across 46 dogs that clinicians diagnosed as having musculoskeletal conditions that caused chronic pain. Wilcoxon-rank sum tests were used to assess the difference in scores between dogs with behavior disorders and a cohort of healthy dogs (n = 143). Results All physical factors besides body condition, and all psychological, environmental, and procedural factors were significantly different between healthy dogs and dogs with chronic pain, evidencing how chronic pain impacts all domains of a dog's life. Spearman Rank Correlation Coefficient (RS) revealed several significant strong positive correlations such as the association between the severity of clinical symptoms with poorer mobility and the frequency at which the dog experienced fearful stimuli. Logistic regression showed that fears and anxieties frequency, the dog's reaction to stressors, engagement with enrichment, and social interactions were significant predictors of chronic pain in dogs. Discussion This highlights that typical signs of musculoskeletal disorders such as gait changes, stiffness, lameness might manifest after behavioral changes such as increased fearfulness, prolonged recovery from a stressful event, a reduced interested in social interactions, toys or play. Owners only seeking veterinary attention when the presence of physical signs of disease are evident may result in a delayed veterinary attention resulting in reduced welfare. Regular veterinary assessments combined with use of the AWAG can proactively identify these behavioral indicators and result in prompt treatment and improved quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Malkani
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
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2
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van Leeuwen E, Ter Mors E, Stolting M. How Cat-Behavior Advisors Can Improve Clients' Willingness to Adopt their Advice: An Investigation of Advice Severity, Advisor Credibility, and Clients' Self-Identity. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2024; 27:266-280. [PMID: 35485746 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2022.2070845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Feline behavioral problems can be treated successfully by good advice from cat-behavior advisors, but guardians often do not comply with their advice. An experimental survey under 703 cat guardians was used to investigate what advisors can do to increase their clients' compliance with environmental enrichment advice. By systematically varying the credibility of the advisor and the severity of their advice, the hypothesis was confirmed that highly credible advisors elicit more positive attitudes and compliance intentions than less credible advisors. Also as expected, mild advice resulted in stronger compliance intentions than severe advice because guardians believed they were better able to incorporate the required actions. Finally, guardians who more strongly thought of themselves as cat guardians were more likely to adopt the advice because they believed that other cat guardians would do the same. The investigation of factors that can increase cat guardians' compliance with advisors' recommendations for the treatment of behavioral problems is crucial because the wellbeing of domestic cats lies in the hands of their guardians. Several practical recommendations for cat-behavior advisors are offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther van Leeuwen
- Department of social, economic, and organisational psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Emma Ter Mors
- Department of social, economic, and organisational psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marcellina Stolting
- Department of social, economic, and organisational psychology Kattengedragsadviesbureau (Cat-Behavior Consultancy), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Malkani R, Paramasivam S, Wolfensohn S. A Multidimensional Evaluation of the Factors in the Animal Welfare Assessment Grid (AWAG) That Are Associated with, and Predictive of, Behaviour Disorders in Dogs. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:528. [PMID: 38396496 PMCID: PMC10886356 DOI: 10.3390/ani14040528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Behavioural disorders in dogs are common and have severe welfare consequences for dogs. This study aimed to assess the factors that are significant and predictive of behaviour problems in dogs using the animal welfare assessment grid (AWAG) to further understand what factors influence their welfare. 177 AWAG assessments were undertaken across 129 dogs that clinicians deemed to have a behavioural disorder. Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used to assess the difference in scores between dogs with behaviour disorders and a cohort of healthy dogs (n = 117). This analysis showed that all physical factors besides body condition, all procedural factors besides procedure pain, and all psychological, and environmental factors were significantly different between healthy dogs and dogs with behaviour disorders. Spearman rank correlation coefficient (RS) revealed several significant strong positive correlations including the procedural impact on the dog's daily routine with aggression towards unfamiliar people and procedure pain, as well as other correlations between the dog's behaviour during assessment with the frequency at which they encounter fears and anxieties, clinical assessment and procedure pain, and reaction to stressors and social interactions. These findings highlight the interdependent nature of the various influences of welfare. Logistic regression analysis identified that aggression towards the caregiver, fears and anxieties frequency, and choice, control, and predictability were all significant predictors of behaviour disorders. The findings have important implications for veterinary, behaviour, and animal welfare professionals as any changes across these factors may indicate poor welfare linked to emotional disorders in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Malkani
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7AL, UK; (S.P.); (S.W.)
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4
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Denenberg S, Machin KL, Landsberg GM. Behavior and Cognition of the Senior Cat and Its Interaction with Physical Disease. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2024; 54:153-168. [PMID: 37865588 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2023.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
In cats, age-related pathologic condition and neurologic degeneration can produce changes in activity, vocalization, appearance, appetite, litter box use, sleep-wake cycle, personality, and cognitive ability. These changes can influence the relationship between owner and pet. Although cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) can cause altered behavior later in life, other medical or behavioral causes may mimic these clinical signs or complicate diagnosis. Management and treatment of CDS can be accomplished through pharmacologic intervention, diet and nutritional supplementation, and environmental enrichment aimed at slowing the progression of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sagi Denenberg
- North Toronto Veterinary Behaviour Specialty Clinic, 8705 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill, Ontario L4C 6Z1, Canada.
| | - Karen L Machin
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5B4, Canada
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5
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Provoost L. Cognitive Changes Associated with Aging and Physical Disease in Dogs and Cats. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2024; 54:101-119. [PMID: 37722947 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2023.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Behavior changes may indicate primary physical disease or primary behavioral disorders in veterinary patients. It is imperative to recognize that secondary behavioral problems can develop due to medical causes. The incidence of systemic disease increases with age and behavior manifestations can be similar to those expected with cognitive dysfunction syndrome. In this article, we review basic concepts of cognition, aging, and cognitive dysfunction syndrome. Additionally, we provide information regarding factors that influence cognition, and the role medical conditions have on the behavior of aging pets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Provoost
- Clinical Sciences & Advanced Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3900 Delancey Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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6
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Piotti P, Pierantoni L, Albertini M, Pirrone F. Inflammation and Behavior Changes in Dogs and Cats. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2024; 54:1-16. [PMID: 37722946 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2023.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Sickness is a normal response to infections or stress triggered by proinflammatory cytokines that drive local and systemic inflammatory responses. Proinflammatory cytokines act on the brain causing the so called "sickness behavior,"which is thought to improve recovery but can become maladaptive in the long term. Chronic inflammation characterizes many diseases and there is some evidence that dogs and cats experience age-associated increases in inflammation, a condition named "inflammaging." A complex and multifactorial relationship exists between these inflammatory mechanisms, pain, and psychological illness that may complicate veterinary diagnosis and affect the outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Piotti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, Via dell'Università, 6, Lodi 26900, Italy
| | - Ludovica Pierantoni
- Veterinary Behaviour & Consulting Services at CAN Training Centre, Via Camaldolilli, 79, Naples 80128, Italy
| | - Mariangela Albertini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, Via dell'Università, 6, Lodi 26900, Italy.
| | - Federica Pirrone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, Via dell'Università, 6, Lodi 26900, Italy
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7
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Amat M, Le Brech S, Manteca X. The Relationship Between Aggression and Physical Disease in Dogs. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2024; 54:43-53. [PMID: 37714772 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2023.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Aggression is a very common behavioral problem in dogs. Although aggression can be part of the normal behavior of dogs, medical conditions can either trigger aggression as in the case of intracranial tumors or aggravate an existing aggression problem as it happens with painful conditions. Therefore, it is essential to include an assessment of physical health in the diagnostic protocol of canine aggression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Amat
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallés 08193, Spain.
| | - Susana Le Brech
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallés 08193, Spain
| | - Xavier Manteca
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallés 08193, Spain
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Radosta L. Behavior Changes Associated with Metabolic Disease of Dogs and Cats. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2024; 54:17-28. [PMID: 37734960 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2023.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Like many physical disorders, the clinical signs associated with metabolic diseases affecting thyroid, adrenal, and pancreatic function are reflective of nonspecific changes in behavior. Additionally, patients who have underlying disorders associated with fear, anxiety, stress, conflict, and/or panic may be under treatment with medications that alter basal thyroid, glucose, and cortisol levels. Through reinforcement and punishment of behaviors associated with clinical signs caused by organic or iatrogenic endocrine disease, behaviors can be perpetuated and become persistent patterns. Screening all patients presenting with a primary behavior complaint or those with behavioral clinical signs of endocrine diseases is essential. Alleviating stress immediately while working up or treating metabolic disease reduces suffering and may stave off the adoption of behavior patterns more permanently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Radosta
- Florida Veterinary Behavior Service, West Palm Beach, FL, USA.
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Fecteau K, Giori L, Eiler H, Esteller-Vico A, Lear A, Videla R. Serum steroid and thyroid hormone concentrations in healthy domestic male and female alpacas. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1281053. [PMID: 38144464 PMCID: PMC10748386 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1281053] [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: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Alpacas are high quality fiber producing animals, kept for production purpose and as pets. Endocrine imbalances from adrenal glands, gonads, or thyroid gland may result in coat abnormalities in domestic animals and affect reproduction. Contrary to many domesticated animals, information on hormone concentrations in alpacas is scarce. The purpose of this study was to provide steroid and thyroid hormone values in domestic alpacas. Blood was collected from healthy male (35 intact, 2 castrated) and female (48 non-pregnant, 3 pregnant) alpacas from local farms in Tennessee. Adrenal, reproductive, and thyroid hormones were analyzed. There were no significant differences in median concentrations of progesterone, estradiol, thyroxine (T4), and triiodothyronine (T3) between intact male and female non-pregnant alpacas. Median concentrations of testosterone, androstenedione, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, and cortisol were significantly higher in intact male alpacas compared to female non-pregnant alpacas. This information provides adrenal, gonadal, and thyroid hormone concentrations in alpacas to help with diagnosis of endocrine disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kellie Fecteau
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Luca Giori
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Hugo Eiler
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Alex Esteller-Vico
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Andrea Lear
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Ricardo Videla
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
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Sacchettino L, Giuliano VO, Avallone L, Napolitano F, d'Angelo D. Combining α-s1 Casozepine and Fluoxetine Treatment with a Behavioral Therapy Improves Symptoms in an Aggressive Dog: An Italian Case Report. Vet Sci 2023; 10:435. [PMID: 37505840 PMCID: PMC10384918 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10070435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Behavioral dysfunctions in dogs represent a critical issue of the human-animal relationship. In particular, aggression can make interspecific coexistence quite complicated within family units, thus exposing all members to greater health risks. In this present study, we documented multiple aggression episodes against one of the two family members caused by a 4-year-old neutered male pure breed Lagotto Romagnolo dog. To minimize impulsivity and anxiety-like behaviors of the patient as much as possible and improve his relationship with the adopting family, we used an interdisciplinary approach, employing specific skilled personnel, including a veterinary behaviorist and a rehabilitating dog instructor. Nine months after fluoxetine treatment (0.8 mg/kg, SID), in combination with oral α-s1 casozepine administration, and behavioral rehabilitation, the owners reported a significant reduction in aggressive events in terms of intensity and frequency. Collectively, our promising data pave the way toward a more detailed characterization of α-s1-casozepine to better evaluate the potential involvement of such a compound in the modulation of aggressive behaviors in dogs affected by relational dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Sacchettino
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | | | - Luigi Avallone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Napolitano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Danila d'Angelo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy
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Hajzler I, Nenadović K, Vučinić M. Health changes of old cats. J Vet Behav 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2023.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
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Seroexposure to Zoonotic Anaplasma and Borrelia in Dogs and Horses That Are in Contact with Vulnerable People in Italy. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12030470. [PMID: 36986392 PMCID: PMC10054474 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12030470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Equine and canine anaplasmosis and borreliosis are major tick-borne zoonotic diseases caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum and various species of Borrelia (the most important being Borrelia burgdorferi s.l.), respectively. This study evaluated the seroexposure to Anaplasma and Borrelia in dogs and horses used in Animal-Assisted Interventions or living in contact with children, elderly people or immunocompromised persons. A total of 150 horses and 150 dogs living in Italy were equally divided into clinically healthy animals and animals with at least one clinical sign compatible with borreliosis and/or anaplasmosis (present at clinical examination or reported in the medical history). Serum samples were tested with ELISA and immunoblot for the presence of antibodies against A. phagocytophilum and B. burgdorferi s.l., and the association between seropositivity and possible risk factors was analyzed using multivariate and univariate tests. Overall, 13 dogs (8.7%) and 19 horses (12.7%) were positive for at least one of the two pathogens. In addition, 1 dog (0.7%) and 12 horses (8%) were positive for antibodies against A. phagocytophilum, while 12 dogs (8.0%) and 10 horses (6.7%) had antibodies against B. burgdorferi s.l. Tick infestation in the medical history of the dogs was significantly associated with seropositivity to at least one pathogen (p = 0.027; OR 7.398). These results indicate that, in Italy, ticks infected with A. phagocytophilum and/or B. burgdorferi circulate in places where horses and dogs are in contact with people at risk of developing severe diseases. Awareness should be increased, and adequate control plans need to be developed to protect human and animal health, especially where vulnerable, at-risk individuals are concerned.
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13
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Atif O, Lee J, Park D, Chung Y. Behavior-Based Video Summarization System for Dog Health and Welfare Monitoring. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:2892. [PMID: 36991606 PMCID: PMC10054391 DOI: 10.3390/s23062892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The popularity of dogs has been increasing owing to factors such as the physical and mental health benefits associated with raising them. While owners care about their dogs' health and welfare, it is difficult for them to assess these, and frequent veterinary checkups represent a growing financial burden. In this study, we propose a behavior-based video summarization and visualization system for monitoring a dog's behavioral patterns to help assess its health and welfare. The system proceeds in four modules: (1) a video data collection and preprocessing module; (2) an object detection-based module for retrieving image sequences where the dog is alone and cropping them to reduce background noise; (3) a dog behavior recognition module using two-stream EfficientNetV2 to extract appearance and motion features from the cropped images and their respective optical flow, followed by a long short-term memory (LSTM) model to recognize the dog's behaviors; and (4) a summarization and visualization module to provide effective visual summaries of the dog's location and behavior information to help assess and understand its health and welfare. The experimental results show that the system achieved an average F1 score of 0.955 for behavior recognition, with an execution time allowing real-time processing, while the summarization and visualization results demonstrate how the system can help owners assess and understand their dog's health and welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Othmane Atif
- Department of Computer and Information Science, Korea University, Sejong City 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Jonguk Lee
- Department of Computer Convergence Software, Sejong Campus, Korea University, Sejong City 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Daihee Park
- Department of Computer Convergence Software, Sejong Campus, Korea University, Sejong City 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongwha Chung
- Department of Computer Convergence Software, Sejong Campus, Korea University, Sejong City 30019, Republic of Korea
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McAuliffe LR, Koch CS, Serpell J, Campbell KL. Associations Between Atopic Dermatitis and Anxiety, Aggression, and Fear-Based Behaviors in Dogs. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 2022; 58:161-167. [PMID: 35793484 DOI: 10.5326/jaaha-ms-7210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to determine if anxiety, aggression, and fear-related behaviors are more common in pruritic dogs with atopic dermatitis than nonpruritic, healthy dogs. One hundred forty-one pruritic dogs >1 yr of age with a clinical diagnosis of atopic dermatitis and a >3 mo history of pruritus were recruited. Dog owners completed a behavioral survey (canine behavioral assessment and research questionnaire) and a pruritus scale (pruritus visual analog scale). Pruritic, atopic dogs showed significant increases in fear- and anxiety-related behaviors as well as aggression compared with a large control group of healthy dogs. Stranger-directed aggression, owner-directed aggression, familiar-dog aggression, dog-directed fear, nonsocial fear, touch sensitivity, excitability, and attention-seeking behaviors were all increased in the study group. Trainability was decreased in the study group. Chronically pruritic dogs experience fear and anxiety and are more likely to display aggression. This is an important welfare issue for these animals. Early recognition of the behavioral derangements that can be associated with chronic pruritic skin disease could allow early intervention with a multidisciplinary approach for these patients, thus improving patient and owner quality of life and long-term treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay R McAuliffe
- From the University of Missouri Veterinary Health Center, Wentzville, Missouri (L.R.M., K.L.C.)
| | - Colleen S Koch
- From the Lincoln Land Animal Clinic Ltd., Jacksonville, Illinois (C.S.K.)
| | - James Serpell
- From the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (J.S.)
| | - Karen L Campbell
- From the University of Missouri Veterinary Health Center, Wentzville, Missouri (L.R.M., K.L.C.)
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15
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Kim SA, Bain MJ. Animal Behavior Case of the Month. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2022; 260:1463-1465. [DOI: 10.2460/javma.22.03.0132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sun-A Kim
- Clinical Animal Behavior Service, Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, Chungbuk National University, Korea
| | - Melissa J. Bain
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
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16
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Kim SA, Bain MJ. Animal Behavior Case of the Month. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2022; 260:1797-1799. [DOI: 10.2460/javma.22.05.0189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sun-A Kim
- Clinical Animal Behavior Service, Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, Chungbuk National University, Korea
| | - Melissa J. Bain
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
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Biondi V, Pugliese M, Voslarova E, Landi A, Passantino A. Animal Welfare Considerations and Ethical Dilemmas Inherent in the Euthanasia of Blind Canine Patients. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12070913. [PMID: 35405901 PMCID: PMC8996943 DOI: 10.3390/ani12070913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Although many dogs with blindness diagnosis can reach a similar age compared to those not affected, often the owners require euthanasia of their animals. This choice leads to conflicting moral principles relating to what is better for the animal and the owner. This article discusses the suitability of euthanasia in blind dogs. To better assess factors influencing the choice of euthanasia, four different scenarios were constructed that described various situations regarding the animal’s aptitude, pet owner, and veterinarian relations. Abstract In dogs, several primary or secondary diseases affecting the ocular structures may cause blindness. In cases where the visual impairment is not associated with severe systemic involvement and the animal can still have, predictably, a good “long-term” quality of life, the veterinarian should inform the owner about the differences between humans and animals, concerning the type of visual perception. In the light of the daily findings in veterinary clinic practice, the Authors report four different scenarios with conflicting views between veterinarians and owners about the euthanasia request for a blind dog. They underline how the diagnosis of incipient or already established blindness in dogs can sometimes lead to an inappropriate request for euthanasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vito Biondi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (A.P.)
| | - Michela Pugliese
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (A.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-90-6766743
| | - Eva Voslarova
- Department of Animal Protection and Welfare and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary Sciences Brno, 612 42 Brno, Czech Republic;
| | | | - Annamaria Passantino
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (A.P.)
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18
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Review on Selected Aggression Causes and the Role of Neurocognitive Science in the Diagnosis. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030281. [PMID: 35158605 PMCID: PMC8833765 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030281] [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: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Aggression in dogs is often a reason for abandonment and/or euthanasia. Recently, knowledge about aggression has been subjected to more detailed analysis. In recent years, it has been studied in terms of factors affecting it, such as diet (especially nutritional supplements) and physiology (endocrine system). In addition, recently, new methods of brain research, such as neurocognitive research, have appeared, which enable a significant increase in knowledge about dog behavior, including aggression. Abstract Aggression as a behavior is not always desirable, often ends in abandonment and/or euthanasia. However, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of unwanted aggression in domestic dogs. Aggression is not a fully understood phenomenon. In recent years, many studies have focused on the influence of diet and physiology (including the endocrine system) on the emergence of behavioral disorders. In particular, the emphasis was put on nutritional additives such as fatty acids, amino acids, and probiotics. In addition, the possibility of using neurocognition in the observation of abnormal behavior in dogs has also been discussed, which may allow for a more detailed determination of the basis of aggressive behavior in dogs. In this review, the concepts related to aggression and its potential causes have been gathered. In addition, the possible influence of diet and hormones on aggression in dogs has been discussed, as well as the application of neurocognition in the possibility of its diagnosis.
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Bazin I, Desmarchelier M. Retrospective study on the use of fluvoxamine in 72 dogs with anxiety disorders. J Vet Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2022.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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The link between neurology and behavior in veterinary medicine: A review. J Vet Behav 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2021.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Restoration of Reproductive Hormone Concentrations in a Male Neutered Dog Improves Health: A Case Study. Top Companion Anim Med 2021; 45:100565. [PMID: 34332118 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcam.2021.100565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This case study reports on the use of hormone therapy to treat a dog with a range of physical and behavioral signs that began after gonadectomy. A male mixed breed dog neutered at 7 months of age presented at 1 year with health issues impacting quality of life. Reduced mobility, limping, rapid weight gain, and fear of unfamiliar people were treated over the next 3 years with trials of pain medication, joint supplements, thyroxine, antidepressant, and significant diet restrictions. Frequent carprofen administration and daily joint supplements reduced limping, but mobility was still poor. Weight stabilized on a strict diet but fear and anxiety responses to strangers continued to worsen. Hormone restoration therapy was initiated when the dog was almost 4 years of age. Weekly subcutaneous administration of testosterone cypionate (0.5 mg/kg) significantly reduced pain and increased muscle mass, thereby improving mobility. However, supraphysiologic concentrations of luteinizing hormone were not reduced with testosterone therapy so a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist was implanted. After hormone restoration, appetite was reduced, and anxiety and fear behaviors became manageable. The testosterone and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist treatment was easily administered, had no known side effects, and the owners were pleased with the outcome.
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Strey S, Mischke R, Rieder J. [Hypothyroidism in dogs: an overview]. TIERAERZTLICHE PRAXIS AUSGABE KLEINTIERE HEIMTIERE 2021; 49:195-205. [PMID: 34157761 DOI: 10.1055/a-1367-3387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Hypothyroidism is one of the most common endocrinopathies in dogs. In rare cases, it may be associated with further endocrinopathies. The most common combination is the con-currence of hypothyroidism and hypoadrenocorticism. The diagnosis of hypothyroidism is based on the measurement of thyroid hormones (T4/fT4) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). As thyroid hormone concentrations in the blood are influenced by various factors (e. g. systemic diseases or drugs), test results must be interpreted in conjunction with complaints demonstrated by the patient. In cases when diagnosis is not definite, stimulating tests or diagnostic imaging techniques (ultrasound, scintigraphy) are advisable. Dogs with hypothyroidism should be diagnosed and treated with thyroid hormones. When addiditional clinical signs are not consistent with hypothyroidism, co-existing additional endocrinopathies need to be considered. Furthermore, when treatment fails to result in the expected clinical response, the diagnosis of hypothyroidism must be subject to critical re-evaluation. This article provides an overview of the current diagnostic and treatment methods in canine hypothyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina Strey
- Klinik für Kleintiere, Stiftung Tierärztliche Hochschule Hannover
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