Article

The Influence of Auditory Stimulation on the Behaviour of Dogs Housed in a Rescue Shelter

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Abstract

This study explored the influence of five types of auditory stimulation (human conversation, classical music, heavy metal music, pop music, and a control) on the behaviour of 50 dogs housed in a rescue shelter. The dogs were exposed to each type of auditory stimulation for 4 h, with an intervening period of one day between conditions. The dogs' position in their kennels (front, back), their activity (moving, standing, sitting, resting, sleeping), and their vocalisation (barking, quiet, other) were recorded over 4 h at 10 min intervals during each condition of auditory stimulation. The dogs' activity and vocalisation were significantly related to auditory stimulation. Dogs spent more time resting and less time standing when classical music was played than when any of the other stimuli were played. Exposure to heavy metal music encouraged dogs to spend significantly more of their time barking than did other types of auditory stimulation. Classical music resulted in dogs spending significantly more of their time quiet than did other types of auditory stimulation. It is suggested that the welfare of sheltered dogs may be enhanced through exposure to appropriate forms of auditory stimulation. Classical music appears particularly beneficial, resulting in activities suggestive of relaxation and behaviours that are considered desirable by potential buyers. This form of music may also appeal to visitors, resulting in enhanced perceptions of the rescue shelter's environment and an increased desire to adopt a dog from such a source.

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... Music, especially classical music, seems to exert a beneficial effect as an enrichment method in animal species such as bovines [13], pigs [13,14] and rats [15][16][17]. In dogs, classical music appears to reduce environmental stress both in kennelled [18][19][20][21][22][23][24] and owned dogs during a visit to the veterinary hospital [25]. However, the authors are aware of only four studies that aimed to evaluate the impact of music in domestic animals when anaesthetic agents were administered in dogs under sedation [26], in cats [27,28] and in dogs under general anaesthesia [29]. ...
... It has been suggested that the music genre, rhythm and sound level may affect the impact of music on animal species. Classical music seems to evoke desirable responses in cats under general anaesthesia [27,28] and dogs [18,19,21,23,24]. Dogs seem to prefer slow rhythm music [20,[22][23][24][25], just like humans, to whom slow tempos between 60 and 80 beats per minute elicit beneficial responses [8,12]. ...
... However, in that study, the music group was only compared to groups exposed to background noise (40-45 dB) or recorded human voices (55-60 dB), using sound levels similar to the music exposure, and not to a group of dogs who remained undisturbed and under total silence. In addition, another study reported that un-sedated dogs, when exposed to classical music, spent more time resting and less time barking, compared to dogs exposed to human conversation and other types of auditory stimulus; however, the authors do not mention the exact sound levels of the aforementioned acoustic stimuli [18]. Carrying on with the study of Albright et al. [26], it should be noted that dexmedetomidine is a potent sedative, especially when administered in rather high doses such as 10 µg/kg. ...
Article
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The main objective of this prospective, randomized, blind, cross-over experimental study was to evaluate the effect of classical music on the depth of sedation and propofol requirements for the induction of anaesthesia in dogs. Twenty dogs were involved, and each was subjected to three different treatments with a 3-month gap: Chopin music, Mozart music, and no music, via loudspeakers. The dogs were premedicated with acepromazine and butorphanol by intramuscular injection, and anaesthesia was induced using propofol intravenously. To compare the depth of sedation and propofol requirements for the induction of anaesthesia among the different treatments, we utilized non-parametric tests (Kruskal–Wallis test) for the depth of sedation due to a slight deviation from the normal distribution and parametric (ANOVA) for propofol requirements. When exposed to music (Chopin or Mozart), dogs exhibited deeper sedation and required less propofol for their intubation compared to the no-music treatment (p < 0.05). Exposure to classical music had a positive impact on the level of sedation, and more profound central nervous system depression seemed to contribute to approximately 20% lower propofol dose requirements for tracheal intubation. Therefore, classical music during the preoperative period appeared to exert a beneficial effect, at least when applying the specific pre-anaesthetic medications used in the present study.
... Several studies have explored the use of auditory enrichment to change dogs' behavior and reduce noise in shelter kennels (Wells et al. 2002;Kogan et al. 2012;Bowman et al. 2015;Brayley and Montrose 2016;Bowman et al. 2017), focusing on certain genres of music or types of sound, often those that are perceived as pleasant and mood-enhancing to humans (Rickard et al. 2005). Wells et al. (2002) investigated the impacts of classical, heavy metal, and pop music; human conversation on the radio; and a control condition of no auditory enrichment on the dogs' behavior. ...
... Several studies have explored the use of auditory enrichment to change dogs' behavior and reduce noise in shelter kennels (Wells et al. 2002;Kogan et al. 2012;Bowman et al. 2015;Brayley and Montrose 2016;Bowman et al. 2017), focusing on certain genres of music or types of sound, often those that are perceived as pleasant and mood-enhancing to humans (Rickard et al. 2005). Wells et al. (2002) investigated the impacts of classical, heavy metal, and pop music; human conversation on the radio; and a control condition of no auditory enrichment on the dogs' behavior. Each was played for four hours with dogs experiencing all music types. ...
... Along with a control condition with no added sound, auditory stimulation was provided to the dogs three times a week for four months. As seen by Wells et al. (2002), classical music led to the most time spent resting. Dogs vocalized more often when no music was provided and were less vocal when classical music was played, but differences were observed between classical selections. ...
Chapter
Dogs experience a variety of stressors within the shelter that could negatively impact their welfare. The use of enrichment interventions that provide social interaction, either with a human or canine; object enrichment; and sensory stimulation (auditory, olfactory, or visual) is necessary for dogs living in animal shelters, along with the assessment of engagement and determination of benefits. There are a wide range of sampling and measurement techniques for monitoring enrichment usage and its behavioral effects, and such efforts are only worthwhile if the data being collected are used. Data‐informed decisions about which enrichment types are provided, on both the shelter‐wide and individual dog levels, must be consistently re‐evaluated based on the current population of dogs and can allow shelters to most usefully employ their resources and best serve the dogs in their care.
... Odours play an important role in the feline world with many practices using pheromone therapy to minimise stress (Riccomini, 2008), although studies have shown lav-Can aromatherapy be used to reduce anxiety in hospitalised felines The Veterinary Nurse | April 2018, Volume 9 No 3 © 2018 MA Healthcare Ltd ender oil is effective in reducing anxiety in animals (pigs, horses, dogs) (Bradshaw et al 1998;Ferguson et al, 2013;Graham et al, 2005;Wells, 2006). This leads us to examine whether aromatherapy could also be beneficial if utilised in practice (Kutlu et al, 2008). ...
... Cats have a complex sense of smell and have been seen to have adverse reactions to various scents due to their inability to metabolise them (Greenfield, 2013), although research on farm animals and other companion animals has shown therapeutic effects (Yarnall and Hofve, 2009). Graham et al (2005) observed relaxed behaviours in canines when lavender oil was diffused into their kennel over 5 days. The dogs spent less time vocalising and appeared generally more relaxed. ...
... The result suggests that lavender oil may possess anxiolytic effects and appears to be effective when used in cats. Similarities can be drawn between this study and those already conducted by Graham et al (2005) and Ferguson et al (2013) where anxiolytic effects were also observed in canines and horses. ...
Research
The aim of this study was to assess whether lavender oil is effective in reducing stress in felines.
... Alcohol disrupts the immune system, both physiologically and adaptively, and significantly deteriorates the body's defenses against infection, and such patients are more likely to develop a COVID-19 infection or any secondary infection. In addition, heavy alcohol use can put them at higher risk for developing other conditions such as obesity and chronic kidney diseases [18]. Severe alcoholic hepatitis patients may not receive average corticosteroid therapy, especially in areas where COVID-19 is more common. ...
... Such patients have significantly higher mortality rates. If a student has a bad liver due to alcoholism, CO-VID-19 infection can be a major decomposing factor [18]. ...
... It has been found that within two days of exposure rescue centre dogs appear more relaxed when exposed to classical music compared to silence [16]. Similarly, dogs exposed to classical music have been found to sleep more and vocalise less compared to those who are exposed to other acoustics such as heavy metal [17], with pop music and human conversation having no effect [18]. Laying hens, in contrast, have previously been found to shake their heads more and preen less when exposed to classical music compared to those who are not [19]. ...
Article
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COVID-19 (coronavirus diseases 2019) has caused a high rate of anxiety, depression, alcoholism and stress in veterinary and medical students. Prolonged closures have created a financial crisis for students. The poor quality of the online education system is not meeting the needs of these students. Many people suffer from psychological distress due to economic losses and loneliness. This review summarizes data from recent research papers that sheds light on the concerns of veterinary and medical students during the COVID-19 lockdown. Suggestions for future pandemics are also summarized. Medical and veterinary education system need new research on teaching methods, especially from a clinical point of view. In addition to improving the quality of online education in preparation for future crises, student well-being should also be considered to mitigate social crises. Because this COVID-19 pandemic has severely damaged the performance of students in academic and social life. More research is needed to improve the veterinary and medical education system during any pandemic.
... Given the exceptionally sensitive olfactory organs of dogs (Binks et al. 2018) and the volatile nature of EOs, which facilitates their airborne dispersion (Srivastava et al. 2019), these aromatic compounds can serve as effective olfactory enrichment for canines (Srivastava et al. 2019). In recent years, there has been a growing interest in investigating the anxiolytic effects of EOs in dogs, with several studies suggesting that specific EOs may alleviate acute stress (Graham et al. 2005;Uccheddu et al. 2018;Haverbeke et al. 2019). This growing body of research suggests that EOs hold promise for positively influencing the wellbeing of dogs. ...
... Takahashi et al. (2014) have elucidated the involvement of the serotonergic system in the anxiolytic effect of lavender EO, observed in both normosmic and anosmic mice. In a study by Graham et al. (2005) investigating the impact of various EOs (including Lavandula angustifolia, Anthennis nobilis, Cymbopogon citrates, and Mentha piperita) on kennel-housed dogs, those exposed to lavender exhibited increased rest and reduced motion compared to those exposed to rosemary and peppermint or without EO application. Furthermore, Wells (2006) explored the effect of lavender on travel excitement in dogs, revealing that dogs exposed to lavender spent more time in restful and seated positions, while exhibiting less vocalization and movement compared to the control group. ...
Article
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The positive impact of essential oils (EOs) on stress release has been demonstrated in both humans and dogs. Among the EOs known for their anxiety-reducing properties, including Cananga odorata, Citrus aurantium, Cupressus sempervirens, Lavandula angustifolia, and Litsea citrata, there is a lack of consensus on the optimal concentration for efficacy. This exploratory study sought to investigate the effects of olfactory enrichment with a blend of these EOs on dogs introduced to an unfamiliar environment. The authors sought to determine the minimum concentration required to achieve increased relaxation. In a randomized controlled crossover study design, 54 dogs were exposed to 0, 1, 5, and 10 drops of the EO blend applied to their collars before entering an unfamiliar room with their owners. Behavioral observations were employed to quantify the total duration of activity and relaxation related behaviours for each dog under each treatment condition. A significant difference in panting was identified among the treatments (χ2(3) = 9.88; p = 0.020). Dunn-Bonferroni post-hoc tests revealed a significant reduction in panting during the 10 drops treatment compared to the control treatment (p = 0.047). No significant differences were observed for other behaviors. To provide a comprehensive overview of behavioral tendencies in this canine population, owners also completed the Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ), revealing low scores for anxiety in the study group. These preliminary findings suggest that a concentration of 10 drops of the EO blend on a dog's collar induces increased relaxation, specifically reflected in decreased panting behavior. Lower concentrations did not exhibit a significant relationship with the observed behaviors. These initial findings underscore the importance of exposing dogs to an appropriate concentration of EOs when exploring their potential benefits on welfare among dogs with low anxiety levels. Further research in this area is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the potential benefits of EOs for canine welfare.
... In Italy, requirements for housing dogs in shelters are regulated by national and regional guidelines that define resources that should be offered to dogs (space provided for each dog, floor type, bedding, food availability) but do not give stringent indications on their management (social vs individual housing, walking, playing, training and socialization with humans) and the consequence is a high variability in management strategies across Italy: it is still possible that dogs are individually housed in paved pens without access to a grass area to exercise and to socialize with either conspecific or humans 11 . Poor management together with the unavoidable exposure to the unpredictable/uncontrollable shelter environment could lead dogs to develop stereotypes and stress-related behaviors [11][12][13][14][15][16] . ...
... Notably, the presence of the female stands out as the most effective stimulus, positively impacting both sleep quality and cyclicity. This is consistent with the existing literature regarding social environmental enrichments: dogs need a physically 13,24 and socially 11,17 stimulating environment in order to avoid stress-related behavior, such as displacing activities and stereotypies 11,43 , and abnormal HPA axis activation 44 while promoting natural behavior 45,46 . It is noteworthy that the improvement in sleep quality and cyclicity in the presence of the conspecific female occurred in a shelter, i.e. an environment where one of the main causes of sleep disturbance in dogs is noise pollution from the barking of other dogs 47 . ...
Article
Full-text available
Shelters are stressful environments for domestic dogs which are known to negatively impact their welfare. The introduction of outside stimuli for dogs in this environment can improve their welfare and life conditions. However, our current understanding of the influence of different stimuli on shelter dogs’ welfare is limited and the data is still insufficient to draw conclusions. In this study, we collected 28 days (four weeks) of telemetry data from eight male dogs housed in an Italian shelter for a long period of time. During this period, three types of enrichment were introduced into the dogs’ pens for one week each: entertaining objects, intraspecific, and interspecific social enrichment, by means of the presence of female conspecifics and the presence of a human. To quantify their impact, we introduce novel metrics as indicators of sheltered dogs’ welfare based on telemetry data: the variation of heart rate, muscle activity, and body temperature from an average baseline day, quality of sleep, and the regularity for cyclicity of the aforementioned parameters, based on the day-night cycle. Using these metrics, we show that while all three stimuli statistically improve the dogs’ welfare, the variance between individual dogs is large. Moreover, our findings indicate that the presence of female conspecific is the best stimulus among the three explored options which improves both the quality of sleep and the parameters’ cyclicity. Our results are consistent with previous research findings while providing novel data-driven welfare indicators that promote objectivity. Thus, this research provides some useful guidelines for managing shelters and improving dogs’ welfare.
... Graham et al. [68] reported the olfactory stimulating properties of EOs (lavender, chamomile, rosemary, and peppermint EOs) in dogs housed in a rescue shelter. The dogs were exposed to each olfactory stimulant, facilitated by the diffusion of EOs, for 4 h per day over 5 days, with a 2-day 12 interval between each exposure. ...
... It was highlighted that stimulating odors might not be suitable for dogs already displaying hyperactivity or abnormal behavior. In contrast, calming scents could contribute to the improved well-being of dogs [68]. ...
Preprint
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Essential oils (EOs) are highly concentrated and volatile blends of nonpolar substances, are derived from aromatic plant components and comprise terpenes, terpenoids and phenylpropanoids, exhibiting diverse biological and pharmacological properties. The burgeoning pet industry is interested in EOs as a potential solution for common health issues in domestic animals, particularly in addressing antimicrobial resistance. The present study summarizes the composition, properties, benefits, safety considerations, and effects of EOs on pets and animals. The applications of EOs range from antimicrobial effects to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities etc. Furthermore, EOs are used extensively in various industries, including beauty care products, detergents, and fragrances. The chemical constituents of EOs, exemplified by eucalyptus EO and rosemary EO, highlight their distinct aromatic profiles and potential benefits. Nevertheless, understanding the chemical makeup of EOs is fundamental in assessing their potential impacts on biological systems. Safety considerations, including potential toxicity, are essential when incorporating EOs into animal care routines. The feed additives incorporating EOs have shown promise in influencing gut microbiota balance, reducing inflammation, and acting as antioxidants. However, cautious application is paramount, considering the potential risks associated with high doses or multiple administrations. Preliminary studies suggest low toxicity levels, but further research is required to evaluate the safety of EOs. Though studies reported the beneficial effects of EOs on pets and animals, further research is needed to validate the findings in real-world conditions. The paper also discussed the regulatory considerations and future perspectives on applying EOs in veterinary medicine.
... The results obtained in the abovementioned studies and the present one tend to fit with those reported in other domestic and captive species, for which the playback of slow rhythm music, classical or 'New Age', seems to be associated with increased calm ([2] for a rev. for farm animals, dogs: [73][74][75]). Similar positive effects such as decreased agitation and increased relaxation (a general term covering measures such as increased respiration rate, decreased heart rate or quieter behaviors such as resting) have also been described in a variety of species including domestic dogs, cattle, pigs and chicks, as well as captive birds, elephants and gorillas [2,[73][74][75][76][77][78], although results can be contradictory and preferences for silence over music can be observed in some species (marmosets: [79]; orang-outans: [80]). ...
... for farm animals, dogs: [73][74][75]). Similar positive effects such as decreased agitation and increased relaxation (a general term covering measures such as increased respiration rate, decreased heart rate or quieter behaviors such as resting) have also been described in a variety of species including domestic dogs, cattle, pigs and chicks, as well as captive birds, elephants and gorillas [2,[73][74][75][76][77][78], although results can be contradictory and preferences for silence over music can be observed in some species (marmosets: [79]; orang-outans: [80]). Indeed, playback of music has been associated with increased growth rate in different species of fish, lower respiration rate in different mammals, increased milk yield in cows or relaxation in pregnant sows (review in [2,[81][82][83]). ...
Article
Full-text available
(1) Background: Since antiquity, it is considered that sounds influence human emotional states and health. Acoustic enrichment has also been proposed for domestic animals. However, in both humans and animals, effects vary according to the type of sound. Human studies suggest that frequencies, more than melodies, play a key role. Low and high frequencies, music tuning frequency and even EEG slow waves used for ‘neurofeedback’ produce effects. (2) Methods: We tested the possible impact of such pure frequencies on racehorses’ behavior and physiology. A commercial non-audible acoustic stimulus, composed of an array of the above-mentioned frequencies, was broadcasted twice daily and for three weeks to 12 thoroughbred horses in their home stall. (3) Results: The results show a decrease in stereotypic behaviors and other indicators such as yawning or vacuum chewing, an increase in the time spent in recumbent resting and foraging, and better hematological measures during and after the playback phase for 4 of the 10 physiological parameters measured. (4) Conclusions: These results open new lines of research on possible ways of alleviating the stress related to housing and training conditions in racehorses and of improving physical recovery.
... Therefore, due to the well-known link between the gut and brain, chronic stress can result in dysbiotic conditions (i.e., diarrhea) and greater susceptibility to GI disorders. Treatments commonly include the use of antibiotics increasing the risk of antimicrobial resistance [7][8][9]. Optimizing intestinal eubiosis is essential for the well-being and psycho-physical balance of animals. Probiotics are largely used to maintain gastrointestinal health. ...
... In confined conditions, the environment limits the expression of dog species-specific behaviors. The potential sources of stress are related to inadequate socialization due to isolation or limited positive interactions with conspecifics and humans, confined environments with spatial restriction combined with lack of environmental stimuli, overcrowding of the boxes, competition for resources (food, resting area, etc.), and imbalances in hierarchies related to group revision in the same area [7][8][9]. In dogs, the persistent condition of stressful stimuli causes physical and psychological health problems, along with greater susceptibility to disease [6]. ...
Article
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The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the administration of Saccharomyces boulardii on the nutritional, immunological, inflammatory, and stress status and on the composition of the gut microbiota and mycobiota in healthy adult dogs. A total of 25 American Staffordshire Terrier dogs were selected and randomly assigned to two groups: control (CTR, n = 12) and treated (TRT, n = 13) groups. No significant differences were found between the two groups regarding body weight, body condition score, and fecal score. No significant differences in microbiota/mycobiota, short chain fatty acids, indole/skatole, histamine, zonulin, or lactoferrin were detected. Indeed, supplementation with S. boulardii significantly decreased fecal calprotectin Immunoglobulin A, indicating an improvement in the gut well-being. Interestingly, fecal cortisol significantly decreased in dogs belonging to the TRT group compared to the CTR, suggesting both an improvement of the intestinal status and a reduction of stress, a common condition affecting animals managed in a breeding environment.
... Other studies have focused on the effect music has on laboratory animals or livestock, concluding that some forms of music improve milk production and meat quality, while also decreasing potential indicators of stress, such as heart rate and blood pressure [27]. More commonly, research involving music and companion animals has focused on pet welfare in kenneled environments (working and shelter dog populations) [28][29][30][31][32][33]. Results from these studies have indicated that the type of auditory stimuli is important, with kenneled dogs showing more calm behaviors when exposed to classical music [33], and more active behaviors when exposed to heavy metal music [29]. ...
... More commonly, research involving music and companion animals has focused on pet welfare in kenneled environments (working and shelter dog populations) [28][29][30][31][32][33]. Results from these studies have indicated that the type of auditory stimuli is important, with kenneled dogs showing more calm behaviors when exposed to classical music [33], and more active behaviors when exposed to heavy metal music [29]. A separate study found that kenneled dogs displayed more relaxed behavior when exposed to audiobooks than when exposed to any other auditory stimuli [30]. ...
Article
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Veterinary visits can be stressful for dogs, but how their wellbeing changes during a visit is not well understood. Music therapy has been successfully used in clinical practice to alleviate stress and anxiety in people. The present study aimed to understand how canine stress changes during a veterinary visit, establish the effect of music, and highlight measures which may be of practical use. In a randomized crossover design, dogs were exposed to no music and a bespoke piece of classical music at a tempo designed to match their resting heart rate during a mock veterinary visit. Dogs were scored as more “afraid” during the physical examination compared to when they were in the hospital kennel (p < 0.001). Salivary cortisol, IgA, and infrared temperature all increased significantly (p < 0.05) from baseline to post-kennel and post-examination, with no effect of music treatment. Core body temperature (p = 0.010) and the odds of ‘relaxed’ lips (p = 0.020) were lower when dogs were exposed to music compared to control visits. Overall, dogs experienced changes in physiology and behavior, indicative of increased stress, over the course of the visit. Additional research is required to further understand the effect that bespoke music may have in alleviating canine stress during veterinary visits.
... There is some research on the perception of music and species-specific music in dogs (Leeds & Wagner, 2008), where it was found that soft rock, reggae, and classical music may have positive effects, whereas heavy metal had negative effects on dogs. Surprisingly, species-specific music appears to have no effect on dog behavior (Bowman, Dowell, & Evans, 2017;Bowman, Scottish, Dowell, & Evans, 2015;Kogan, Schoenfeld-Tacher, & Simon, 2012;Wells, Graham, & Hepper, 2002), unlike the preference shown by cats and monkeys (Snowdon & Teie, 2010;Snowdon et al., 2015). In contrast, it has been claimed that the calming effect of audiobooks exceeds that of music for dogs (Brayley & Montrose, 2016), although Wells et al. (2002) previously argued that classical music may outcompete speech. ...
... Surprisingly, species-specific music appears to have no effect on dog behavior (Bowman, Dowell, & Evans, 2017;Bowman, Scottish, Dowell, & Evans, 2015;Kogan, Schoenfeld-Tacher, & Simon, 2012;Wells, Graham, & Hepper, 2002), unlike the preference shown by cats and monkeys (Snowdon & Teie, 2010;Snowdon et al., 2015). In contrast, it has been claimed that the calming effect of audiobooks exceeds that of music for dogs (Brayley & Montrose, 2016), although Wells et al. (2002) previously argued that classical music may outcompete speech. These differences in the dog might reflect adaptation to the human environment or simply a familiarity effect. ...
... Shelters play a key role in saving animals from straying. However, living in shelter can contribute to the development of various welfare-related problems for animals by causing less adoptability and, consequently, complicating the management of shelters ( Wells et al., 2002 ;Lord et al., 2014 ;Kubesova et al., 2017 ). Since the animal welfare in shelters is both an ethical and an economical issue, it is important to better understand and evaluate it in order to improve the service provided by shelters ( Normando et al., 2006 ). ...
... It is generally accepted that many animal shelters can be potentially stressful places for animals, mainly due to space restrictions, lack of resources and high animal turnover ( Kessler and Turner, 1999 ;Wells et al., 2002 ). ...
Article
Shelters play a key role in saving animals from straying. However, the space restrictions, the lack of resources and the high animal turnover can increase stress levels and the rate of infectious diseases in cats and dogs. The aim of this study is to evaluate, through the buccal micronucleus assay, the level of genomic damage in shelter cats and dogs with respect to that observed in family cats and dogs. The hypothesis is that stressful environmental conditions, such as those potentially present in shelters, can affect the level of genomic damage. Study population included thirty healthy mixed breed cats and dogs with a minimum two-year presence in a shelter. The control group consisted of thirty healthy cats and dogs living in a home environment, using age/sex matching. The micronucleus assay was performed on one thousand exfoliated buccal cells per subject. Significant differences were found between shelter and family cats and dogs in terms of micronuclei frequency, indicating that a condition of stress found in sheltered animals may increase the levels of genomic damage. The ethotest confirms the increased levels of total aberrations in both stressed shelter cats and dogs. Conversely, no significant differences in the level of genomic damage were found between the sexes, as well as no correlation was found between age and the frequencies of micronuclei. In conclusion, we provided evidence of a possible correlation between physiological stress conditions and increased levels of genomic damage in a sample of sheltered cats and dogs. The results of our study also suggest that the buccal micronucleus assay, also considering the relatively low cost of laboratory procedure and its non-invasiveness, could be potential additional tool that, combined with the ethotest, may be able to provide a more comprehensive picture of the health status of animals living in communities.
... There is some research on the perception of music and species-specific music in dogs (Leeds & Wagner, 2008), where it was found that soft rock, reggae, and classical music may have positive effects, whereas heavy metal had negative effects on dogs. Surprisingly, speciesspecific music appears to have no effect on dog behavior (Bowman, Dowell, & Evans, 2017;Bowman, Scottish, Dowell, & Evans, 2015;Kogan, Schoenfeld-Tacher, & Simon, 2012;Wells, Graham, & Hepper, 2002), unlike the preference shown by cats and monkeys (Snowdon & Teie, 2010;Snowdon et al., 2015). In contrast, it has been claimed that the calming effect of audiobooks exceeds that of music for dogs (Brayley & Montrose, 2016), although Wells et al. (2002) previously argued that classical music may outcompete speech. ...
... Surprisingly, speciesspecific music appears to have no effect on dog behavior (Bowman, Dowell, & Evans, 2017;Bowman, Scottish, Dowell, & Evans, 2015;Kogan, Schoenfeld-Tacher, & Simon, 2012;Wells, Graham, & Hepper, 2002), unlike the preference shown by cats and monkeys (Snowdon & Teie, 2010;Snowdon et al., 2015). In contrast, it has been claimed that the calming effect of audiobooks exceeds that of music for dogs (Brayley & Montrose, 2016), although Wells et al. (2002) previously argued that classical music may outcompete speech. These differences in the dog might reflect adaptation to the human environment or simply a familiarity effect. ...
... First of all, vocal learning might not be a dichotomous feature but a continuum ranging from non-vocal learners and limited vocal learners to complex vocal learners [53]. Additionally, some non-vocal learners display a certain sensitivity to music; for example, a positive effect of music has been evidenced in zoo-housed Western lowland gorillas (Western lowland gorillas) [54] and dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) [55][56][57]. Other non or limited vocal learners show musical preferences, as is the case of degus (Octodon degus), which have highly developed vocal communication and prefer Chilean folk music to Western music and silence [58], or mice, which can develop musical preferences if they are exposed to music during a critical period (between day 15 and day 25 after birth) [59]. ...
Article
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Music may be one of the oldest forms of art, and its appreciation is thought to be universal among humans. Music could also represent a useful tool to improve captive animals’ welfare, especially if individuals can choose the music they prefer. The ability to discriminate between different kinds of music or composers has been demonstrated in numerous non-human species. However, a reinforcing effect of music was found in only a few species, particularly in vocal learner birds such as Passeriformes and Psittaciformes. In this study, we explored whether cockatiels could learn to use a touchscreen to choose between two different pieces of music: first between rock and roll and calm music, and then between consonant and dissonant music. Some birds showed individual preferences for either rock and roll or calm music, but no preferences were found for consonance or dissonance. These results are in line with the hypothesis that vocal learners would be sensitive to music. Our findings offer new prospects for the study of musicality in non-humans and its potential applications for promoting welfare in captive animals: interacting with a touchscreen would allow them to have some control over their environment and to choose their preferred type of music as a form of environmental enrichment.
... It is much more difficult for phlegmatics and melancholics, who need more work from the owner to develop a successful behavioral model (DeNapoli et al., 2000;DePalma et al., 2005;Crista et al., 2006;Cozzi et al., 2009). There are no detailed studies on which breeds of dogs give birth to the largest percentage of sanguine, choleric, phlegmatic and melancholic, by typifying their temperament, with a view to forming appropriate behavior (Fuller and Fox, 1969;Eisele, 2001;Fournier and Geller, 2004;Graham et al., 2005;Gaines, 2006). Bearing this fact in mind, we set ourselves the goal of studying 5 small breeds of dogs used by people as pets-companions (Bichon Frise, Pekingese, Dachshund, Poodle, Shih Tzu), typifying their temperament and calculating which of them show the most sanguine, choleric, phlegmatic and melancholic type of nervous system. ...
Article
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The temperament of a total of 30 small puppies of 4 breeds in the period of their primary socialization was typified. The number of sanguines, cholerics, phlegmatics and melancholics was determined separately according to the breed of the animals along with the possibility of building a successful behavioral model for representatives of different breeds according to their temperament. The fastest socialization was reported in Shih Tzu puppies, followed by Bichon Frise, Pekingese, Dachshund, and lastly Poodle. There was a relationship between temperament and breed in dogs.
... In Lars' gibbons, species-typical songs increased animal activity [126]. However, some studies reported positive effects of non-species specific music on various species' behaviors, including a reduction in "anxious" behavior in gorillas [127]; increased affiliative and reduced agonistic behavior [128] or reduced aggression and exploration with increased social readiness and rest [129] in chimpanzees; reduced stereotypies in elephants [97]; and in dogs, classical music increased sleep and resting behavior but rock music increased activity and barking [72,130,131]. ...
Article
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The effects of sound stimulation as a sensorial environmental enrichment for captive animals have been studied. When appropriately implemented for farm animals, it can improve welfare, health, and productivity. Furthermore, there are indications that music can induce positive emotions in non-human animals, similar to humans. Emotion is a functional state of the organism involving both physiological processes, mediated by neuroendocrine regulation, and changes in behavior, affecting various aspects, including contextual perception and welfare. As there is very limited information on non-human animals, the objective of this review is to highlight what is known about these processes from human biological and comparative perspectives and stimulate future research on using music to improve animal welfare.
... The use of white noise (from equipment such as fans or from an app) can be beneficial for some dogs, as can playing relaxing music (such as classical music (Wells et al, 2002) and slow tempo simple arrangements (Leeds and Wagner, 2008)) and blocking out any visual triggers related to the noise fear. Owners should take care that these noises used to mask fear inducing noises do not become conditioned themselves to produce a negative emotional response in the dog as a result of their pairing with aversive events. ...
Article
This comprehensive guide delves into the phenomenon of noise-related fear in dogs, a prevalent issue with a significant impact on canine wellbeing. The article explores the intricate relationship between a dog's emotional response to noise and its behavioural expressions, highlighting the complexity of noise-related fear, its clinical manifestations and therapeutic approaches. It emphasises the importance of differentiating fear from anxiety and phobias, as they exhibit distinct characteristics that necessitate separate consideration in both diagnostic and therapeutic contexts. The guide explains how various factors can contribute to the development and progression of noise-related fear in dogs, including genetic predispositions, breed-specific traits and traumatic events related to noise exposure. It also addresses the critical role of veterinary professionals in managing noise-related fear, advocating for informed, proactive approaches in prevention, management and treatment. The guide stresses the importance of early detection and intervention, tailored treatment strategies, and the collaborative involvement of pet owners. Overall, it offers a holistic approach to safeguard the development of noise-related fear in dogs, aimed at improving their behavioural response and overall quality of life.
... Such studies reported positive observable behavior or physiological changes to auditory playbacks, such as ecologically-relevant sounds, classical music, and radio broadcasts. Examples of the observed effects of enrichment included reduced respiratory rate in dogs (Wells et al., 2002), improved growth rate of chickens (Gvaryahu et al., 1989), reduced incidences of stereotypies, and enhanced general well-being in Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) (Wells & Irwin, 2008), leopards (Markowitz et al., 1995), and several species of birds (Kaplan et al., 2009;I. Williams et al., 2017; Sonic enrichment at the zoo 263 Kleinberger et al., 2019). ...
Article
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There is a strong disconnect between humans and other species in our societies. Zoos particularly expose this disconnect by displaying the asymmetry between visitors in search of entertainment, and animals often suffering from a lack of meaningful interactions and natural behaviors. In zoos, many species are unable to mate, raise young, or exhibit engagement behaviors. Enrichment is a way to enhance their quality of life, enabling them to express natural behaviors and reducing stereotypies. Prior work on sound-based enrichment and interactivity suggest that a better understanding of animals’ sensory needs and giving them options to shape their surroundings can yield substantial benefits. However, current zoo management and conservation practices lack tools and frameworks to leverage innovative technology to improve animal well-being and zookeepers’ ability to care for them. Ethical considerations are called for in developing such interventions as human understanding of animals’ worlds is still limited, and assumptions can have detrimental consequences. Based on several interventions, four principles are proposed to guide a more systematic implementation of sonic enrichment in zoos. The goal is to lay the groundwork for the design of the zoos of the future, with a focus on sounds, for the benefit of the animals.
... Many factors can be stressful for dogs in a veterinary practice (Edwards et al., 2019), such as transportation between home and the practice (Beerda et al., 1997), the novel location (Beerda et al., 1997), the 'white coat effect' (Kallet et al., 1997;Belew et al., 1999), the presence of new people and animals (Scotney, 2010), and unusual sounds and activities (Beerda et al., 1997;Wells et al., 2002). Even smells such as those released by stressed people and animals can be stressful for dogs (Graham et al., 2005;Siniscalchi et al., 2011Siniscalchi et al., , 2016. ...
... Intriguingly, background noise results in rats liking sweetness more, perhaps as a way of dealing with the sensory stress/overload (Kupfermann, 1964). At the same time, however, the smell of vanilla has been shown to calm both dogs and humans at mealtimes (Binks et al., 2018;Rain, 2004; see also Graham et al., 2005), on the excitatory effect on movement and barking of the dogs housed in an animal shelter on being exposed to the scent of peppermint and rosemary). 5 Intriguingly, the latest research demonstrates that dogs make some of the same surprising crossmodal associations, e.g., between the pitch of a sound and the size of an object that have previously been documented in people (Korzeniowska et al., 2022; though see Faragó et al., 2010;Von Hornbostel, 1931), this is just one example of so-called crossmodal correspondences (Spence, 2011a). ...
Article
While the growing global obesity crisis in humans has attracted a great deal of attention from the media and healthcare professionals alike, the rapid increase in weight problems reported amongst pets is now attracting widespread recognition too. In humans, the emerging science of gastrophysics offers a number of concrete suggestions as to how people can be nudged into eating less by means of the enhanced multisensory design of both foods and the environments in which they choose to eat. In this narrative review, the potential relevance of gastrophysics to helping tackle the growing problem of overweight and obese domestic dogs is reviewed. This involves discussion of both the important similarities and difference in the way in which people and their pets perceive food, and the likely role of various product-extrinsic factors on consumption in the two cases. Nevertheless, despite the differences, a number of suggestions for future research are forwarded that may help to address the growing problem of overweight pets, and the behaviours that give rise to it.
... This simple counterconditioning routine was performed to help dogs gradually acclimate to sounds they would hear in a home environment. After all items were handed out, household sounds stopped and music was played at a low volume (Kogan et al., 2012;Wells et al., 2002), the indoor lights were dimmed, and all people left the area. During the Zen Time hour, no one entered the dogs' housing area, a strategy intended to provide a predictable period of rest in the middle of the day. ...
Article
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Some dogs entering shelters exhibit extreme fearfulness, often after experiencing cruelty or neglect. Dogs displaying extreme fearfulness are difficult to assess and treat using the tools and protocols available in most shelters. Without effective treatment, these dogs have an unacceptably poor quality of life and are unlikely to be successfully adopted. Treatment protocols using behavior modification techniques such as desensitization, counterconditioning and operant conditioning were developed to reduce fear of stimuli that pet dogs typically experience in adoptive homes. From 2013–2020, outcomes were recorded for dogs that went through this behavioral rehabilitation program. The graduation rate from the program was 86% (380/441). Graduated dogs spent an average of 98 (SD=55) days in the program, experiencing an average of 78 specific treatment sessions. They showed a significant improvement in behavior in a standardized behavior assessment (df=440, t=28.3836, p=0.001) before meeting criteria for placement. Once offered for adoption, they had a 99% adoption rate and a 96% adopter satisfaction rate. These results indicate that an appropriately designed behavioral rehabilitation program for dogs displaying extreme fear in a shelter setting can prove highly successful, resulting in improved quality of life and reduced need for behavioral euthanasia.
... Stress factors include the sounds of other dogs; limited ability to exercise and restricted movement; fewer opportunities for social interactions, particularly if dogs were formally in a home; and does not allow for independent decision making which can lead to apathy [25][26][27][28]. The inability to interact with other dogs can add to the social isolation [20,25,29,30]. ...
Article
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There has been discussion in traditional and social media about increases in the numbers of people willing to foster animals in their homes during the pandemic. However, there is a lack of empirical data on whether that increase was a temporary response to the stress of COVID-19 or the ability to work from home, if it might have lasting effects, or indeed, whether an increase occurred at all. Using a national survey of over 600 animal shelter/rescue foster volunteers it appears that fostering did increase during the pandemic (x2 = 45.20, p = 0.00), particularly among volunteers working from home, those with higher education, those that were younger and male, and those that did not have their own dog. The study concludes that there was an increase in fostering but that the impact is likely to be ephemeral predicated on the ability to work from home. Organizations may be able to retain foster volunteers through support, particularly emotional support, directed at the human as opposed to focusing solely on the dog.
... Because of such effects in humans, it has been hypothesised that passive exposure to music might have similar effects on non-human animals (hereafter animals). There is growing attention being paid to the utility of passive music exposure for improving animal welfare or productivity in a broad range of captive environments Hoy et al., 2010;Krohn et al., 2011;Wells et al., 2002) because it is cost-effective, instantaneous, and easy to implement. Consequently, the number of studies that examine the impact of passive music exposure on animals is increasing by the year, leading to a common view that music is likely good for animal welfare. ...
Article
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Music can have powerful effects on human health and wellbeing. These findings have inspired an emerging field of research that focuses on the potential of music for animal welfare, with most studies investigating whether music can enhance overall wellbeing. However, this sole focus on discovering what effects music have on animals is insufficient for advancing scientific and practical understanding of how music can be used as an enrichment tool and can also lead to problems in experimental design and interpretation. This paper argues for a different approach to the study of music for welfare, where music is used to address specific welfare goals, taking account what animals hear in music and selecting or creating ‘musical’ compositions that test current hypotheses about how music is able to influence animal behaviour and physiology. Within this conceptual framework, we outline the process through which perceptual abilities influence welfare outcomes and suggest reframing music for welfare research as Auditory Enrichment Research which adopts a targeted approach that does not purpose music as an all-round welfare enhancer but rather investigates whether auditory enrichment can ameliorate specific welfare problems based on species-specific perceptual abilities, needs, and welfare goals. Ultimately, we hope that these discussions will help to bring greater unification, vision, and directionality in the field.
... Exploring the perceived importance of kennel management practices has enabled assessment of how successfully the emerging research evidence base is entering and informing industry practice. The use of lavender as olfactory stimulation and music as auditory enrichment were rated as two of the most unimportant of kennel management practices, yet there are numerous scientific studies suggesting they can be helpful in reducing stress experienced by dogs housed in kennel facilities (Wells et al., 2002;Graham et al., 2005;Kogan et al., 2012;Bernardini and Niccolini, 2015;Bowman et al., 2015;Bowman et al., 2017;Binks et al., 2018;Köster et al., 2019). This suggests that dissemination of research findings is not always succeeding to industry practice uptake. ...
Article
There is public interest for the welfare of dogs that spend at least part of their lives housed in kennel facilities, such as working, shelter and sporting dogs. The impacts of living in environments that limit social, physical, and behavioral opportunities are generally well understood in other animals, such as livestock and zoo animals. Research exploring the effects of the kennel environment and its enrichment on the behavior and physiology of dogs is emerging. However, human perceptions concerning what is important to the welfare of kenneled dogs have been overlooked. What people believe is important will influence their behavior, with direct relation to care provided to animals and the underlying social license of related industries to operate. This study evaluated the perceived importance of specific kennel management practices relating to canine health, kennel facility design and routine, social interactions, and environmental enrichment. Over 2,000 self-selected adults completed a voluntary, internet-based questionnaire. Differences in beliefs and attitudes were identified based on kennel facility experience, employment role, age, and gender, highlighting potential areas of discordance that may contribute to occupational stress and staff turnover. The results also suggest that research findings published in the scientific literature may not be successfully translating into evidence-based changes in industry practice. Future models to assess animal welfare should include the critical dimension of human-animal interaction. The beliefs, attitudes, and consequent behaviors of people interacting with dogs housed in kennels will determine how living in captivity impacts upon the experiences and welfare of the resident dogs.
... Many factors can be stressful for dogs in a veterinary practice (Edwards et al., 2019), such as transportation between home and the practice (Beerda et al., 1997), the novel location (Beerda et al., 1997), the 'white coat effect' (Kallet et al., 1997;Belew et al., 1999), the presence of new people and animals (Scotney, 2010), and unusual sounds and activities (Beerda et al., 1997;Wells et al., 2002). Even smells such as those released by stressed people and animals can be stressful for dogs (Graham et al., 2005;Siniscalchi et al., 2011Siniscalchi et al., , 2016. ...
Article
Veterinary practices can be stressful places for dogs. Decreasing stress during veterinary consultations is therefore a major concern, since animal welfare matters both for owners and veterinarians. Stress can be expressed through behaviour modifications; monitoring canine behaviour is thus one way to assess stress levels. We also know that the owner can affect dog behaviour in different ways. The aim of this study was therefore to assess the effect of the presence of owners on the behaviour of their dogs in veterinary consultations. We studied 25 dog-owner dyads at two standardised veterinary consultations, conducted at intervals of 5-7 weeks; the owner was present for the first consultation and absent for the second (O/NoO group, n = 12), or vice versa (NoO/O group, n = 13). A consultation consisted in three phases: exploration, examination, greeting. Dog behaviours were compared between the two conditions using a video recording. Despite some limitations (e.g. no male owners, the exclusion of aggressive dogs, a limited sample size, minimally invasive veterinary examinations, restricted owner-dog interactions), our results showed that the presence or absence of the owner had no significant effect on the stress-related behaviour of the dog or the veterinarian’s ability to handle the animal during the examination phase (P > 0.05). Nevertheless, the behaviour of the dogs towards people was affected before, during, and after the veterinary examination. In the presence of their owner, dogs were more willing to enter the consultation room (P < 0.05), and they appeared more relaxed during the exploration phase (P < 0.01). During the examination, dogs looked in direction of their owner in both situations (owner present and behind the door, respectively; P < 0.001). These results suggest that allowing the owner to stay in the room during veterinary consultations is a better option for canine welfare.
... Many factors can be stressful for dogs in a veterinary practice (Edwards et al., 2019), such as transportation between home and the practice (Beerda et al., 1997), the novel location (Beerda et al., 1997), the 'white coat effect' (Kallet et al., 1997;Belew et al., 1999), the presence of new people and animals (Scotney, 2010), and unusual sounds and activities (Beerda et al., 1997;Wells et al., 2002). Even smells such as those released by stressed people and animals can be stressful for dogs (Graham et al., 2005;Siniscalchi et al., 2011Siniscalchi et al., , 2016. ...
Article
Dogs synchronise their behaviour with those of their owners when confronted with an unfamiliar situation and interactions with their owners have been shown to decrease the dog’s stress levels in some instances. However, whether owners may help manage dog anxiety during veterinary consultations remains unclear. In Part I, we compared the behaviour of dogs in the presence or absence of their owners during consultations, which consisted in three phases: exploration, examination, and greeting. Our findings suggest that allowing owners to attend consultations may be beneficial for dogs. In Part II, we investigated the direct relationship between owners’ actions and their dog’s behaviour. Using the videos from Part I, we examined whether: (1) dogs interact more when their owner is more interactive; (2) owners’ stress scores are related to canine stress-related behaviour and emotional state; (3) owners’ actions influence canine stress-related behaviours, emotional state and tolerance to manipulations; (4) canine stress-related behaviours and emotional state are associated with increased eye contact with their owners. We analysed the recordings of 29 dog-owner dyads submitted to a veterinary consultation in Part I. The behaviours of the dogs and their owners were analysed, and their emotional states were scored. The ease of manipulations was also scored. Despite limitations (e.g. no physical contact during examinations, no invasive procedures, aggressive dogs excluded, no male owners, limited sample size), our study showed a link between dog and owner behaviours: when owners attended an examination, their negative behaviours intensified the signs of anxiety in their dogs. Additionally, visual and verbal attempts to comfort their dog had no significant effect. However, we observed that the more dogs displayed stress-related behaviours, the more they established eye contact with their owners, suggesting that dogs seek information (through social referencing) or reassurance from their owners.
... 10 Music's beneficial effects have been reported in other animals, including: reduction in stereotyped behaviors in elephants; 11 reduction in chimpanzee aggressiveness and an increase in their rest time; 12 increase in the milk production of dairy cows and an easier approach to the milking parlor when music was playing; 13,14 and reduction in the barking frequency of sheltered dogs and, when classical music was playing, more time resting and less time standing. 15 Bowman et al also studied dogs, and they found no significant reduction in barking; however, barking increased after ceasing the sound stimulus. 16 Several environmental aspects can affect the wellbeing of cats when confined in a hospital environment. ...
Article
Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the use of two different types of music – cat-specific music and classical music – compared with no music, to reduce stress in cats during hospitalization. Methods Thirty-five hospitalized cats were randomly divided into three groups and each group received a different stimulus – cat-specific music, classical music or no music (control) – throughout their hospitalization. Respiratory rate, salivary cortisol and social interaction were documented. A blinded researcher performed the Cat Stress Score (CSS) during the video analysis of recordings at five specific times over 31 h of hospitalization. Results There was no difference in the mean CSS between cats listening to cat-specific music, classical music and control throughout the five evaluations. Cat-specific music had a higher percentage of positive social interactions than the other groups on the first evaluation (P <0.05). The average respiratory rate was significantly lower in the classical music group vs control on the fourth evaluation (P <0.05). Although statistically insignificant, the average respiratory rate decreased only in the classical music group during the five evaluations. Cortisol quantification did not seem to follow the CSS results. However, owing to the low and unrepresentative number of samples, it was not possible to perform statistical analysis on these results or a group sample comparison. Conclusions and relevance Both cat-specific music and classical music seem to have some benefit to hospitalized cats. The salivary cortisol analysis was not adequate nor useful to measure stress in hospitalized cats in our study.
... 10 Music's beneficial effects have been reported in other animals, including: reduction in stereotyped behaviors in elephants; 11 reduction in chimpanzee aggressiveness and an increase in their rest time; 12 increase in the milk production of dairy cows and an easier approach to the milking parlor when music was playing; 13,14 and reduction in the barking frequency of sheltered dogs and, when classical music was playing, more time resting and less time standing. 15 Bowman et al also studied dogs, and they found no significant reduction in barking; however, barking increased after ceasing the sound stimulus. 16 Several environmental aspects can affect the wellbeing of cats when confined in a hospital environment. ...
Article
Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the use of two different types of music – cat-specific music and classical music – compared with no music, to reduce stress in cats during hospitalization. Methods Thirty-five hospitalized cats were randomly divided into three groups and each group received a different stimulus – cat-specific music, classical music or no music (control) – throughout their hospitalization. Respiratory rate, salivary cortisol and social interaction were documented. A blinded researcher performed the Cat Stress Score (CSS) during the video analysis of recordings at five specific times over 31 h of hospitalization. Results There was no difference in the mean CSS between cats listening to cat-specific music, classical music and control throughout the five evaluations. Cat-specific music had a higher percentage of positive social interactions than the other groups on the first evaluation ( P <0.05). The average respiratory rate was significantly lower in the classical music group vs control on the fourth evaluation ( P <0.05). Although statistically insignificant, the average respiratory rate decreased only in the classical music group during the five evaluations. Cortisol quantification did not seem to follow the CSS results. However, owing to the low and unrepresentative number of samples, it was not possible to perform statistical analysis on these results or a group sample comparison. Conclusions and relevance Both cat-specific music and classical music seem to have some benefit to hospitalized cats. The salivary cortisol analysis was not adequate nor useful to measure stress in hospitalized cats in our study.
... In dogs, classical music increased sleep and rest behavior in three studies, whereas rock music led to increased activity and barking in three studies [26][27][28]. However, two other studies reported no effects of music on behavior [29,30]. ...
Article
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Playing music or natural sounds to animals in human care is thought to have beneficial effects. An analysis of published papers on the use of human-based music with animals demonstrates a variety of different results even within the same species. These mixed results suggest the value of tailoring music to the sensory systems of the species involved and in selecting musical structures that are likely to produce the desired effects. I provide a conceptual framework based on the combined knowledge of the natural communication system of a species coupled with musical structures known to differentially influence emotional states, e.g., calming an agitated animal versus stimulating a lethargic animal. This new concept of animal-based music, which is based on understanding animal communication, will lead to more consistent and specific effects of music. Knowledge and appropriate use of animal-based music are important in future research and applications if we are to improve the well-being of animals that are dependent upon human care for their survival.
... Gentle stroking combined with human vocalisation ("high pitched gentle tone") were shown to reduce stress and promote mucosal immunity [19], to reduce the incidence of upper respiratory tract disease [19], and to decrease fear of humans in cats [5]. However, playbacks of human conversation did not change shelter dogs' behaviour [20]. Another way to implement the human voice as sensory stimulation is the use of audiobooks, i.e., audio recordings of someone reading a book, and to play them to shelter animals. ...
Article
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Reading books to shelter animals combining auditory enrichment with human presence is increasingly used although its effects on animal welfare have not yet been investigated. This study compared the behaviour of single-housed shelter dogs and cats during a prerecorded reading condition in the absence or presence of an unfamiliar human (without direct physical contact). Fourteen dogs and twenty-one cats were observed in their enclosure in the two conditions in a counterbalanced order. Behaviours such as scratching the door, gaze direction and location in relation to the audio source/human were analysed from video recording for 10 min per condition. Dogs spent more time in their bed (p < 0.047) and looking at the auditory source (p < 0.004) when a human was present. Cats showed door scratching and rubbing when a human was present (p < 0.043), whereas they tended to spend more time in the vertical dimension (p = 0.051), where the hiding boxes were located, during auditory stimulation without a human present. These results show that the presence of a human induces greater interest compared to just audio stimulation in shelter dogs and cats but may induce frustration likely due to not being able to physically interact in some animals.
... It could have been expected that further treatment differences in behaviour would be found, especially between slow tempo tracks, and the control. Many studies have shown that classical music exposure promotes behaviours suggestive of increased relaxation in shelter dogs (e.g., increased resting and reduced vocalisation) [9][10][11]. Bowman et al. [38] found that, when music was played, dogs spent less time standing and more time lying down (largely regardless of genre). ...
Article
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Confinement can be stressful for some dogs and this can lead to behavioural issues and poor welfare. A key component of the stress response is behavioural arousal, characterised by increased alertness and sensory sensitivity. This makes behavioural observations a useful tool to assess stress, as they provide insight into an animal’s internal state. Auditory enrichment has been shown to reduce arousal-related behaviour in dogs, but it is not clear if specific characteristics of a music track, such as tempo and/or pitch, produce these effects. The aim of this study was to compare behavioural responses of dogs to music tracks played with different characteristics (high pitch, low pitch, fast tempo, and slow tempo), as well as white noise and a control. Pitch and tempo modifications were applied to ten piano music songs and the six treatments (four different treatment-song combinations, white noise, and control) were presented daily, for ten minutes each, to ten dogs over ten days. Behavioural changes seemed to be driven by low-pitch tracks, which increased the level of alertness of the dogs. These findings could be related to the Morton’s motivations-structural rules: harsh, low frequency vocalisations signal aggressive motivations in mammals. Dogs may have perceived low-pitch tracks as more unsettling and were therefore more active and alert when listening to them.
... Podendo ser maior em casos onde há o uso de delineamentos com repetição no tempo, como o quadrado latino, por exemplo. Esses cães, na maioria das vezes, ficam alojados em ambientes restritos e estressantes, podendo comprometer seu bem-estar (Wells, 2003) e ocasionar comportamentos anormais, como as estereotipias (Broom e Fraser, 2010) ou indesejáveis, como a coprofagia (Boze, 2010;Meyer et al., 2014;Hart et al., 2018). ...
Article
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Cães de canis experimentais ficam alojados individualmente no período de experimentação, podendo causar assim, alguns problemas comportamentais, os quais prejudicam seu bem-estar. Com isso, uma ferramenta que pode ser utilizada para minimizar esses efeitos e melhorar o bem-estar dos animais é o enriquecimento ambiental. Assim, o objetivo desse trabalho foi avaliar o comportamento de cães de canil experimental e a digestibilidade da dieta, com e sem enriquecimento ambiental. Foram utilizados oito cães adultos, os quais permaneceram 10 dias sem enriquecimento ambiental, seguidos por 10 dias com, totalizando 20 dias de experimento. O enriquecimento utilizado foi uma esfera oca, contendo furos, na qual o alimento era liberado conforme manipulação pelos cães. A dieta foi fornecida duas vezes ao dia. Foram realizados dois ensaios de digestibilidade, com a mesma dieta, sendo um no período sem enriquecimento e outro com. Cada ensaio de digestibilidade teve cinco dias de adaptação à dieta, seguido por cinco dias de coleta total de fezes. Foram observados os comportamentos dos cães durante o início e final de cada período. Houve aumento no tempo comendo (0,3% para 1,2%) e no comportamento exploratório (0,3% para 1,7%) dos cães no período que foi utilizado enriquecimento ambiental (P>0,05). Houve diminuição da coprofagia (1 vez para 0) no final do período que os animais estavam com enriquecimento (P<0,05). Os demais comportamentos não diferiram (P>0,05). Não houve diferença na digestibilidade da dieta mensurada sem e com enriquecimento (P>0,05). Com isso, o enriquecimento ambiental melhora alguns comportamentos, auxiliando no bem-estar de cães de canil experimental, sem interferir na mensuração da digestibilidade da dieta.
... Music can be played to help block out other sounds, but should be played at a quiet level. Studies show a potential for classical music to have a calming effect on animals (33,(43)(44)(45). Cats prefer a much warmer environment than what we prefer, between 35 and 38 • C. Offer cats large towels so that they can burrow underneath, if desired, to help them maintain their preferred ambient temperature. ...
Article
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Veterinarians perform surgery for a number of reasons, from treating a problem to preventing future problems. There is an inextricable link between the physical and psychological aspects of an animal's health, and surgery is often a conduit to bridge that gap. Some surgical procedures can affect an animal's behavior, such as castration, and some pose an ethical dilemma, such as ear cropping and declawing. Ameliorating pain, decreasing stressful experiences for the animal, and identifying and treating concurrent problem behaviors are hallmarks of improving animal welfare. The purpose of this article is to outline some of these interrelationships and ethical dilemmas, providing evidence-based verification as applicable.
... Bowman et al. [47] used a variety of music genres (Soft Rock, Motown, Pop, Reggae and Classical) and found that when any type of music was played, dogs spent less time standing and more time lying (with the exception of Reggae). Wells et al. [48] played different types of music (Classical, Heavy Metal and Pop), as well as human conversation, and found that dogs exposed to classical music spent more time resting and less time standing than dogs exposed to the other treatments. In Bowman et al. [9], the initial effects of classical music compared to a silent control, were a reduction in vocalisation and increase in time lying down, but dogs habituated to the stimuli by the second day of exposure. ...
Article
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Animal shelters can be stressful environments and time in care may affect individual dogs in negative ways, so it is important to try to reduce stress and arousal levels to improve welfare and chance of adoption. A key element of the stress response is the activation of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), and a non-invasive tool to measure this activity is heart rate variability (HRV). Physiologically, stress and arousal result in the production of corticosteroids, increased heart rate and decreased HRV. Environmental enrichment can help to reduce arousal related behaviours in dogs and this study focused on sensory environmental enrichment using olfactory and auditory stimuli with shelter dogs. The aim was to determine if these stimuli have a physiological effect on dogs and if this could be detected through HRV. Sixty dogs were allocated to one of three stimuli groups: lavender, dog appeasing pheromone and music or a control group, and usable heart rate variability data were obtained from 34 dogs. Stimuli were applied for 3 h a day on five consecutive days, with HRV recorded for 4 h (treatment period + 1 h post-treatment) on the 5th and last day of exposure to the stimuli by a Polar® heart rate monitor attached to the dog’s chest. HRV results suggest that music activates both branches of the ANS, which may be useful to relieve both the stress and boredom in shelter environments.
... Par exemple, l'écoute de musique déclenche une augmentation de la synthèse de calcium et de dopamine chez les rats, suggérant que cela pourrait diminuer les symptômes des maladies impliquant des dysfonctionnements dopaminergiques (Sutoo et Akiyama, 2004). Chez les chiens (Canus lupus familiaris), la musique diminue les aboiements, augmente le temps passé à se reposer (Wells et al., 2002) et engendre plusieurs changements physiologiques bénéfiques impliquant une diminution du niveau de stress (Bowman et al., 2017) : c'est spécialement le cas pour la musique classique (Kogan et al., 2012). Parmi les animaux captifs, les éléphants d'Asie montrent également une diminution des comportements stéréotypés à l'écoute de musique (Wells et Irwin, 2008) et les chimpanzés davantage de comportements sociaux tels que le toilettage, le jeu et l'exploration (Howell et al., 2003). ...
Article
La musicalité ( i.e. l’ensemble des capacités associées à la perception, à l’appréciation et la production musicale) est largement répandue chez notre espèce. Selon certains chercheurs, elle aurait évolué car elle favoriserait la survie et/ou la reproduction. Ainsi, les origines biologiques de la musicalité ont été étudiées dans la littérature, chez l’espèce humaine mais aussi chez d’autres espèces. Les études suggèrent des fonctions adaptatives, dont l’attractivité en tant que partenaire de reproduction, la communication mère-bébé, ou encore la cohésion des groupes sociaux. Dans cette revue comparative, nous présenterons les données existantes sur la musicalité chez les espèces humaine et non-humaines pour chacune des fonctions évoquées ci-dessus. Nous discuterons ensuite la convergence évolutive de la musicalité chez certaines espèces ainsi que son origine biologique.
Article
Dogs and cats are popular companion animals that live together with humans. This special issue provides topics about the scents and olfaction of dogs and cats from the viewpoint of ethology. The first half introduces the significance of odors of feces, urine, and body, which is easily perceived as unpleasant odors, and how to deal with them. The second half mainly introduces the olfactory ability, the application of “Nosework” to animal welfare, and the effects of the owner’s body odor on the attachment behavior, in dogs and cats.
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The domestic dog has attracted notable attention in relation to the welfare benefits of auditory stimulation. Studies carried out in rescue kennels, an environment in which dogs are prone to chronic stress, have pointed to a calming influence of both classical music and audiobooks. The benefits of auditory stimulation for dogs experiencing more immediate types of stress, however, are still unknown. This investigation thus examined the effect of classical music and the spoken voice in the form of an audiobook on the behaviour of pet dogs in response to separation from their owners, a known short-term stressor. Three conditions of auditory stimulation were employed: (1) a control (the normal environment of the university research room), (2) classical music (Mozart’s Sonata K.448) and (3) an audiobook (Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone). The effect of these conditions was explored using two approaches. Study 1 explored the effects of auditory stimulation using a between-subjects design. Sixty dogs were assigned to one of the 3 conditions and exposed to the relevant auditory stimulus for 1-hour. Each dog’s behaviour was recorded every 10 s using a purpose-designed ethogram. Latency data were recorded by video. Results revealed a significant effect of auditory condition on latency to lie down, latency to settle (i.e., lie down for >30 s) and speaker-directed gaze. Dogs exposed to classical music were significantly faster to lie down than animals in the audiobook condition and quicker to settle than animals in the audiobook and control conditions. Subjects in the audiobook condition spent significantly more time gazing at the speaker than animals in the classical music and control conditions. Dogs in the classical music condition also spent significantly more time looking towards the speaker than control animals. Study 2 examined the effects of auditory stimulation using a repeated measures design. Twenty-two dogs were exposed to each condition of auditory stimulation for 30 min, with a period of 10 min between conditions. Each animal’s behaviour was recorded as per Study 1. Only speaker-directed gaze differed significantly between conditions, with animals spending more time looking at the speaker in the audiobook and classical music conditions than the control. Overall, findings point to only a moderately calming effect of classical music, and no apparent welfare benefits of an audiobook, on dogs separated from their owners. The research points to auditory stimulation having little value to dogs in situations of short-term acute stress. Further research is recommended in this field, ideally in a wider variety of contexts than studied thus far.
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Our relationship with dogs runs thousands of years deep. Today, we might know dogs intimately as members of our human family, but we can also know and consider dogs on their own terms, as members of Canis familiaris , with a unique evolutionary history and species‐specific characteristics and needs. This chapter is a resource for all types of dog knowers and caretakers. It relies heavily on empirical research to anchor readers in the foundations of canine behavior—such as dog behavioral development, normal dog behavior, factors influencing behavior, and relationships with people—and considers how these topics affect dogs of all ages and backgrounds who find themselves in the shelter environment.
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Behavioral welfare concerns for shelter pets can be a result of the shelter environment itself or due to behavior disorders preexisting the intake of a sheltered pet. Addressing immediate welfare concerns and anticipating long‐term behavior concerns can help to improve adoptability, facilitate a smoother transition to the new home, and often lead to a shorter‐term treatment overall for shelter animals. Understanding the indications and goals for behavior medication use, factors to consider prior to prescribing, requirements to prescribe, monitoring, and medication choices are keys to success. Practitioners must also recognize that behavioral medications should not be used alone, without a working diagnosis, and other aspects of a treatment plan (environmental management, behavior modification). Even shelters with limited resources can do something to meet the requirements of a comprehensive behavior treatment plan that includes the use of medications to improve shelter animal health and welfare.
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Facility design and animal care practices impact the quality of life of sheltered dogs, and there is a growing body of data and anecdotal information showing that appropriate housing and husbandry can mitigate the negative impact of many detrimental features commonly attributed to shelters. Using the facility and caring for animals in a way that balances behavioral, medical, and operational considerations while ensuring opportunities for assessment, enrichment, training, and rehabilitation is essential to operating a humane animal shelter. A well‐designed and maintained physical facility can facilitate the development and delivery of an efficient and effective behavioral program in a shelter, with the quality of housing substantially impacting animal health and well‐being.
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Providing behavioral care to animals in special circumstances, such as following a natural disaster or after removal from a cruelty or neglect situation, presents a variety of unique challenges. Following disasters, animals are often held in rudimentary field shelters until they are reunited with their owners or considered unclaimed. Cruelty cases involve populations of animals, such as dogs from organized dogfighting operations and animals from hoarding situations, that present with behavioral needs for safe and humane sheltering. Long‐term holds, often due to legal cases, compound shelter stress over time, which can lead to behavioral decline. These special circumstances represent substantial challenges to maintaining animal welfare. Even when faced with less‐than‐ideal conditions and other limitations, best efforts should be made to prevent, mitigate, or eliminate negative welfare and to facilitate psychological well‐being.
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Objective: To evaluate the effects of a single dose of orally administered gabapentin in alleviating stress at a veterinary visit in privately owned dogs. Animals: 22 healthy client-owned dogs (1.5 to 8.5 years old) were enrolled in this study. Procedures: Each dog received a 50-mg/kg oral dose of either gabapentin or placebo 2 hours before the beginning of each visit protocol. The dog's behavioral responses were coded from recorded video clips during a 5-minute-long standardized physical examination and pre- and post-physical examination phases. The veterinary technician separately rated each greeting behavior at each visit. Physiological variables during veterinary visits (ie, eye surface temperature and salivary cortisol concentrations) were also compared between the pre- and post-physical examination phases. The owner was queried 24 hours after a visit to determine the incidence of adverse events. Results: The greeting test score, eye surface temperature, and cortisol concentrations did not differ substantially between the gabapentin and placebo treatment groups. Lip licking frequency during the physical examination phase was significantly lower in the gabapentin treatment group than in the placebo group (P = 0.001). Lip licking frequency during the pre- and post-physical examination phases was also significantly lower in the gabapentin treatment group than in the placebo treatment group (P = 0.004). No serious adverse events were reported by the owners following gabapentin treatment. Clinical relevance: Results showed that the 50-mg/kg dose of gabapentin was well tolerated without serious adverse effects in healthy dogs. Further studies are recommended of dogs with documented stress in response to a veterinary visit.
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Excessive barking is a major source of noise pollution in dog kennels and negatively impacts welfare. Because resources are often limited, minimizing barking in the simplest and most easily implementable way is imperative. This pilot study implemented a Quiet Kennel Exercise (QKE) that utilized classical counterconditioning to change the dogs’ negative emotional state (which can lead to barking) to a more positive emotional state. Therefore, barking motivation is reduced, so barking should decrease. This study aims to show proof of concept that decreasing barking through classical counterconditioning is effective. It was conducted in one ward of day-time boarding kennels at North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Data was collected three times per day and included decibel readings, number of dogs present, and number of dogs barking during a 5-day initial baseline and 10-day intervention period. During baseline, people passing through the ward acted as they normally would. During intervention, passersby were asked to simply toss each dog a treat regardless of the dogs’ behaviors in the kennel. Descriptive results show improvement in maximum level of barking after QKE, fewer dogs barking over time, dogs barking less each time, and the most improvement noted in the afternoon.
Article
Dogs experience both acute and chronic stress when living in animal shelters. Current best practices recommend a variety of techniques for reducing stress such as enhanced human interactions including play or training, novel feeding strategies, increased exercise/group play, and, when possible, group housing. Auditory stimulation in the form of bio-acoustically designed music has shown a stress-relieving effect in dogs experiencing chronic stress such as those living in a kennel. However, there is little research looking at the effect of visual stimulation on stress in shelter-living dogs. Using a two-group (treatment, control) experimental design, the current study examined the effect of auditory and visual content intended to reduce stress, measured by salivary cortisol and behavior, in shelter dogs. The content was delivered through an in-kennel pet videophone unit. Forty-seven dogs were enrolled at one shelter in the United States. While there were no significant differences in pre- and post-test salivary cortisol levels by experimental group (P > 0.05), dogs in the treatment group spent significantly less time in the back of the kennel (P = 0.046) than did dogs in the control group. In addition, two behaviors differed by experimental group at the P < 0.10 level: dogs in the treatment group spent more time grooming (P = 0.066) and less time walking (P = 0. 052) than did dogs in the control group. These results point to a promising area for future research as they suggest that, under certain conditions, auditory and visual enrichment delivered through an individual in-kennel device could be a useful adjunct to an existing enrichment and behavior protocol for shelter-housed dogs.
Article
Immer häufiger kommen Hunde in die Praxis, die Verhaltensprobleme mit sich bringen: Sie lassen sich nicht gerne anfassen, kommen nicht zur Ruhe oder zeigen sogar Aggressionsverhalten. Eines steht fest – die Behandlung wird dadurch nicht einfacher. Die permanente Anspannung macht eine Befundung und Behandlung schwierig.
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Combined effects of music, environmental enrichment, and filial imprinting were tested on meat strain chicks (broilers) from 1 to 7 days old (Study I) or from one to 8 wk old (Study II). In six experiments conducted in two separate studies, chicks were exposed to a blue plastic box (30 × 30 × 38 cm) containing speakers from which red gloves were hung at the chicks’ eye level. Classical music was provided intermittently (1 h on/1 h off) from speakers located in the boxes. Approach response, feeding behavior, fear behavior, body weight, feed:gain ratio, and mortality were evaluated. Approach response tests (Study I) demonstrated that attachment to the imprinting enrichment and music (IEM) object was greater among treated chicks, whereas fear response tests indicated that IEM-treated chicks were also less fearful. Evaluation of feeding behavior (Study II) indicated that IEM chickens fed significantly more often than controls, particularly when the music was activated. Feed:gain ratios of the IEM-treated chicks in Study I were significantly improved (1.48 vs. 1.58) compared with those of controls for three of the four experiments. The exception occurred in Experiment 3, when chicks were exposed to heat stress, and nonsignificant differences for feed:gain ratios were observed. Body weight and mortality differences were not observed. Results of Study II, however, demonstrated significant influences of imprinting, enrichment, and music on body weight at 8 wk of age (2.63 vs. 2.57 kg), whereas differences in feed conversion and mortality were not significant.
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This study examines the use of music as a strategy to decrease agitated behavior in cognitively impaired nursing home residents. Twenty agitated subjects, 68 to 84 years of age, were exposed to 15 minutes of calming music on two occasions. Agitated behavior scores were recorded before, during and after the musical intervention using the Agitated Behavior Scale. Results indicate that a statistically significant reduction in agitated behavior occurs both during (p. <0]) and after the musical intervention (p. <05). Calming music was shown to be an effective, nonpharmacologic strategy which nurses and other caregivers may use to reduce agitated behavior in the nursing home.
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Environmental enrichment is a vague concept referring to improvements to captive animal environments. Some authors have applied the term to an environmental treatment itself, without any concrete evidence that the treatment represented an improvement for the animals. Others have used the term when the main beneficiaries may have been people rather than their captive animals. The criteria used to assess enrichment have also varied according to animal use (e.g. laboratory, farm or zoo animals). In this paper, environmental enrichment is defined as an improvement in the biological functioning of captive animals resulting from modifications to their environment. Evidence of improved biological functioning could include increased lifetime reproductive success, increased inclusive fitness or a correlate of these such as improved health. However, specifying an appropriate endpoint is problematic, especially for domestic animals. Potential methods of achieving enrichment that require further investigation include presenting food in ways that stimulate foraging behaviour and dividing enclosures into different functional areas. The quality of the external environment within the animals' sensory range also deserves greater attention. A common shortcoming of attempts at environmental enrichment is the provision of toys, music or other stimuli having little functional relevance to the animals. Failure to consider the effects of developmental factors and previous experience can also produce poor results. Environmental enrichment is constrained by financial costs and time demands on caretakers, and providing live prey to enrich the environment of predators raises ethical concerns. Future research on environmental enrichment would benefit from improved knowledge of the functions of behaviour performed in captivity and more rigorous experimental design.
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This field study investigated the extent to which stereotypically French and German music could influence supermarket customers' selections of French and German wines. Music with strong national associations should activate related knowledge and be linked with customers buying wine from the respective country. Over a 2-week period, French and German music was played on alternate days from an in-store display of French and German wines. French music led to French wines outselling German ones, whereas German music led to the opposite effect on sales of French wine. Responses to a questionnaire suggested that customers were unaware of these effects of music on their product choices. The results are discussed in terms of their theoretical implications for research on music and consumer behavior and their ethical implications for the use of in-store music. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
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Plasmacortisol levels were examined to assess the stress of dogs in a county animal shelter. Groups of dogs confined in the shelter for their 1st, 2nd, or 3rd day had higher cortisol levels than did a group maintained in the shelter for more than 9 days. Dogs in the shelter for an intermediate period (Day 4-9) had intermediate levels of cortisol. The cortisol concentrations of dogs during their first day in the shelter were greater than either those of the same dogs on Day 4/5 in the shelter or those of a group of pet dogs sampled in their own homes. There was no overall effect of 20 min of social interaction with a human (e.g., petting) on the plasma cortisol levels of dogs in the shelter on Day 1-3. However, the gender of the petter did affect cortisol levels. Those dogs interacting with a female had lower cortisol concentrations at the end of the session than did dogs interacting with a male. The results suggest that confinement in a public animal shelter produces a prolonged activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Further, it appears that some subtle aspect of interaction with a human may be capable of moderating this response. Possible implications for the welfare of confined dogs, and for the development of behavior problems in dogs obtained from shelters, are discussed.
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This study investigated the impact of different types of music on tension, mood, and mental clarity. A total of 144 subjects completed a psychological profile before and after listening for 15 minutes to four types of music (grunge rock, classical, New Age, and designer). With grunge rock music, significant increases were found in hostility, sadness, tension, and fatigue, and significant reductions were observed in caring, relaxation, mental clarity, and vigor. In contrast, after listening to the designer music (music designed to have specific effects on the listener), significant increases in caring, relaxation, mental clarity, and vigor were measured; significant decreases were found in hostility, fatigue, sadness, and tension. The results for New Age and classical music were mixed. Feeling shifts among subjects were observed with all types of music. Designer music was most effective in increasing positive feelings and decreasing negative feelings. Results suggest that designer music may be useful in the treatment of tension, mental distraction, and negative moods.
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This study investigated the relationship between preference for heavy metal music and vulnerability to suicide among 121 high school students. Heavy metal fans had less strong reasons for living (especially male fans) and had more thoughts of suicide (especially female fans). For a large majority, listening to music (all types) had a positive effect on mood. Overall, the results indicate that preference for heavy metal music among adolescents may be a "red flag" for increased suicidal vulnerability, but also suggest that the source of the problem may lie more in personal and familial characteristics than in any direct effects of the music. Implications for intervention and for future research are discussed.
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This study evaluated the effect of music on the mood of women during exercise. 16 middle-aged women, aged 49.9 +/- 7.53 yr., performed 60-min. bench stepping exercise while listening to Japanese traditional folk song, aerobic dance music, or nonmusic. The subjects reported significantly less fatigue with aerobic dance music and Japanese traditional folk song than with nonmusic. Aerobic dance music was associated with significantly more vigor and less confusion than nonmusic.
Article
Despite the controversy surrounding heavy metal music and ifs effects on listeners' levels of arousal and anger. a methodologically sound experimental study has not tested this relationship. This study incorporated an experimental design in order to utilize individual differences of subjects as a moderating variable in determining the effect of heavy metal music on listeners' self-reported levels of arousal and anger. It was found that heavy metal music aroused all subjects but that increases in subjects' anger levels were due to an interaction of heavy metal music and the listener's musical preference. Overall, subjects who identified themselves as heavy metal fans did not show higher levels of anger than subjects who were not heavy metal fans. It is suggested that the effects of heavy metal music are mediated by subjects' individual differences and that examination of the effects of heavy metal music should take individual factors of the listeners into account.
Article
Many institutions which house dogs cage their animals separately in an attempt to reduce the transmission of disease and/or injury. Under such conditions, dogs are usually able to receive auditory and olfactory stimulation from other animals. However, many kennels are designed in such a way to prevent visual contact with conspecifics. To date, the influence of visual conspecific contact on the behaviour of sheltered dogs has not been specifically addressed. This research examined the effects of visual contact with other dogs on the behaviour of dogs housed in a rescue shelter. Four hundred and seven dogs were studied: 212 dogs were housed in cages that allowed for visual contact with dogs in opposite pens; 195 dogs were deprived of visual contact with other dogs by being housed in cages opposite empty pens. The dogs' position in the cage (front, middle, back), activity (moving, standing, sitting, resting, sleeping), and vocalisation (barking, quiet, other) were recorded over a 4 h period. Dogs which were allowed visual conspecific contact spent significantly more of their time at the front of the pen (in a position to see other dogs) than animals denied such contact (87.7% vs. 24.6%, respectively). Visual canine contact had no effect on dog activity or vocalisation, and it is suggested that tactile contact is necessary before these behaviours are altered. Overall, results indicate that where dogs have the opportunity to observe others dogs, they take it. Where dogs are housed singly, the provision of visual intraspecific contact may help to reduce the under-stimulation commonly associated with single housing. Housing dogs in conditions which encourage the animals to the front of the cage, e.g., constructing pens which face opposite each other, may also help to improve a dog's chances of finding a new home by positively promoting visitors' perceptions of dog desirability.
Article
This exploratory study evaluated the effects of ecologically relevant sounds on captive lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla), housed in the night quarters adjacent to their new exhibit at the San Diego Zoo. The behaviour of four western lowland gorillas was sampled using remote videotaping under each of four noise conditions associated with captive housing (quiet, ventilation on, bonobo vocalization playbacks and caretaker sounds) and each of two sound conditions (rain forest sounds ‘off’, rain forest sounds ‘on’). Significant differences in behaviour across noise conditions were found; these differences were ameliorated for infants, but only partially for adults by the rain forest sounds. The two adults responded to the rain forest sounds with increased agitation. The preliminary nature of these results is discussed.
Article
Because of very real practical constraints, conditions in animal shelters are often reminiscent of those in early primate deprivation studies. Dogs are frequently surrendered to shelters because of behavior problems, and aspects of the shelter environment may induce anomalous behavior, increasing the chances that adopted dogs will be returned to the shelters. Comparative psychologists, psychobiologists, and other behavioral scientists possess the knowledge and techniques to help shelters intervene in this cycle. Experience suggests human interaction and the application of basic conditioning procedures can reduce the impact of the shelter environment, and ease the transition into the adoptive home. A program developed to meet these goals is described. Shelters can provide opportunities both for the training of students in animal-related exercises and for limited applied research. Behavioral scientists stand in a unique position to help transform conditions in animal shelters to the benefit of all involved.
Article
Bei 20 gesunden Probanden (zehn Frauen, zehn Männer, mittleres Alter 25 [20-33] Jahre) und 20 Patienten mit arterieller Hypertonie (acht Frauen, zwölf Männer, mittleres Alter 57,5 [25-72] Jahre) wurden Streßhormone, der Fibrinolysemarker Gewebe-Plasminogenaktivator (t-PA-Antigen), linksventrikuläre diastolische Herzfunktion und momentane Befindlichkeit vor und nach dem Hören von drei Musikstücken untersucht: ein Walzer von J. Strauß, moderne Klassik von H. W. Henze und meditative Musik von R. Shankar. Zur Erfassung hämodynamischer Effekte der Musik wurde die linksventrikuläre diastolische Funktion anhand des Mitralflusses dopplersonographisch charakterisiert. Die atriale Füllungsfraktion (AFF) wurde aus den Flußintegralen (VTI) der frühen E- und der späten A-Welle errechnet. Zur Abschätzung der momentanen psychischen Befindlichkeit diente der Zerssen-Score. Bei den Hypertonikern waren nach der Musik von Strauß die Cortisol- (74 vs 78 ng/ml, P < 0,05) und die t-PA-Antigen-Konzentration (4,3 vs 4,5 ng/ml, P < 0,05) niedriger als vorher. Die Musik von Henze senkte die Konzentration von Cortisol (70 vs 84 ng/ml, P < 0,05), Noradrenalin (203 vs 224 ng/1, P < 0,05) und t-PA-Antigen (4,1 vs 4,6 ng/ml, P < 0,05). Nach dem Hören von Shankar waren Cortisol (71 vs 78 ng/ml, P < 0,05), Adrenalin (14,5 vs 24,5 ng/1, P < 0,05) und t-PA-Antigen (4,2 vs 4,3 ng/ml, P < 0,05) vermindert. Bei den Gesunden nahm nach der Musik von Strauß die AFF (29 vs 26 %, P < 0,05) zu, das VTI-E ab (69 vs 73 mm, P < 0,05), und ANP stieg an (63 vs 60 pg/ml, P < 0,05). Die Befindlichkeit besserte sich (6 vs 11 Punkte, P < 0,05). Nach Henze nahm der Prolactinspiegel ab (7,7 vs 9,1 ng/ml, P < 0,05). Musik von Shankar führte zur Reduktion von Cortisol (57 vs 65 ng/ml, P < 0,05) sowie von Noradrenalin (209 vs 256 ng/1, P < 0,05) und t-PA-Antigen (1,1 vs 1,4 ng/ml, P < 0,05) bei den Gesunden. Die Werte der AFF und des t-PA-Antigens waren bei den Patienten höher als bei den Gesunden. - Musik hat bei Patienten und Gesunden akute streßmindernde Effekte, die bei meditativer Musik am deutlichsten ausgeprägt sind.
Article
The effect of environmental enrichment and exposure to humans during rearing on fear levels and trauma in adult caged hens was studied, Enriched birds were found to exhibit lower levels of potentially injurious fear reactions and incurred fewer knocks against the cage during depopulation than non-enriched birds. Environmental enrichment during rearing was identified as an important factor affecting fear levels and risk of injury in adult birds.
Article
Four experiments were performed to examine the influence of early environmental enrichment and regular gentle handling on the behaviour and fear responses of transported broilers. Experiment 1 showed that enriched/handled birds had longer tonic immobility durations after transportation than non-enriched/non-handled birds. Experiment 2 showed that enriched/handled birds were more active in their home pens both before and after transportation. In Experiment 3, handling and enrichment treatments were separated. Tonic immobility durations after transportation were least in enriched/non-handled birds and greatest in enriched/handled birds. Experiment 4 examined the influence of four different handling treatments on behaviour and tonic immobility response.
Article
The main objective of this experiment was to assess the effect of music on the voluntary approach of cows to an automatic milking system (AMS). A group of 19 mid- and late-lactating Holstein cows with 2 months prior experience of twice-daily milking in the AMS was used in this study. The cows were housed in a free stall barn with slatted floors and fed a complete mixed ration using an indoor feed bunk. They were also offered 1.5 kg per cow of grain pellets in the AMS during milking. Music was played during the milking period for 69 days prior to observation with amplifiers located within the milking compartments, approximately 1.2 m above the head of the milking cows and also on the long side of the barn. The sounds were activated at the start of each milking period and terminated after the last milking cow left the AMS. Behavioural observations were carried out during the afternoon milking for 20 days randomly fluctuating between days with music and days without music. The number of cows in the holding area was instantaneously recorded at 5 min before and 5 min after the onset of the milking period. On days with music, the number of cows in the holding area increased from 22.3 ± 15.1% to 45.0 ± 18.0% (P < 0.01). On control days without music, this difference was less pronounced, increasing from 27.1 ± 13.7% to 35.1 ± 15.4% (P = 0.150). Changes in the composition of behavioural states from 5 min before to 5 min after the onset of the milking period were significant on days with music (P < 0.001) but not on control days (P = 0.412). The results show a stimulatory effect of music, influencing behavioural readiness of cows to access the milking compartments of the AMS.
Article
The behavior of visitors towards dogs housed in rescue shelters has been subject to little research. This study explored the behavior of 76 visitors to a rescue shelter in Northern Ireland as they toured the dogs' kennels. The number of dogs that visitors stopped to look at, the nature of all interactions that visitors initiated with the dogs and the outcome of the visitors' tour of the shelter, were examined. The influence of the visitors' sex and the size of the group touring the kennels, on the visitors' behavior was also explored. On average, the visitors stopped to look at 29% of the total number of dogs available for purchase. Dogs housed in cages closest to the shelter entrance were more likely to attract attention from the visitors than those housed further away. When they stopped to look at a dog, visitors spent an average of 70 seconds in front of the animal's cage. Thirty-one of the visitors initiated an interaction with a dog, which lasted for an average of 20 seconds. Three visitors purchased a dog at the end of their tour of the shelter. Individuals who purchased a dog spent significantly more time standing in front of their future pet's cage, and engaged in more interactions with this animal, than dogs that they did not purchase. The size of the group touring the shelter was significantly related to the visitors' behavior. Individuals touring the shelter alone stopped in front of more dogs' cages, spent more time in front of the dogs' enclosures, initiated more interactions, and purchased more dogs, than those visiting in pairs or groups. The visitors' sex was unrelated to their behavior. The findings suggest that visitors to rescue shelters only show an interest in a small proportion of dogs available for purchase. Elucidating exactly what factors influence visitors' perceptions of, and behavior towards, sheltered dogs may further our understanding as to why so many animals are overlooked for purchase every year.
Article
Every year sees an increase in the number of dogs admitted to rescue shelters. However well these dogs are cared for in the shelter it cannot be ignored that being in such a situation is stressful and the time spent in the shelter may change the dogs' behaviour which may in turn influence their chances of being bought from the shelter. This research examined the behaviour of stray and unwanted dogs on their first, third and fifth days in an Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (USPCA) shelter. A questionnaire was also distributed to members of the public to determine how popular the USPCA was as a place from where to purchase a dog, and what factors about a dog's physical characteristics, behaviour and environment influenced potential buyers. Results revealed no significant difference between the behaviour of stray and unwanted dogs although the public viewed stray dogs as much less desirable than unwanted dogs. Time in the shelter had no adverse effects on the dogs' behaviour. Indeed those changes which did occur during captivity, dogs being more relaxed in the presence of people and eating food more quickly, may be considered as positive changes. The USPCA was viewed as a popular place from which to buy a dog. Off actors influencing the public's choice, the dog's environment and behaviour appeared more important than its physical characteristics. The presence of a toy in the dog's cage greatly increased the public's preference for the dog, although the toy was ignored by the dog. The welfare implications of sheltering dogs are discussed
Article
This article extends research linking shopping behavior to environmental factors through changes in emotional states. With time fixed or variable during a simulated shopping experiment, shoppers were exposed to music varying by degree of familiarity. Afterward, subjects reported their perceptions of shopping duration, their emotional states, and their merchandise evaluations. Analyses revealed that individuals reported themselves as shopping longer when exposed to familiar music but actually shopped longer when exposed to unfamiliar music. Shorter actual shopping times in the familiar music condition were related to increased arousal. Longer perceived shopping times in the familiar music condition appear related to unmeasured cognitive factors. Although emotional states affected product evaluations, these effects were not directly related to the music manipulations.
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Thesis (Ph. D.)--Queen's University of Belfast, 1996.
Article
The effects of control over exposure to high intensity noise on plasma cortisol levels and social behaviors were examined in rhesus monkeys. There were four conditions: control over noise, loss of control over noise, no control over noise, and no noise. Plasma cortisol data indicated that animals with control over high intensity noise stimulation did not differ from animals exposed to no noise at all. Plasma cortisol levels were significantly elevated in animals with no control over high intensity noise and in animals experiencing a loss of control over noise. Animals which experienced loss of control over noise showed increased aggressive behavior while animals with no control over noise showed significantly less social contact than other animals.
Article
Stress hormones, tissue-plasminogen activator (t-PA) antigen, left-ventricular diastolic function and mood immediately before and after listening to three different kinds of music (a waltz by J. Strauss, a piece of modern classic by H. W. Henze, and meditative music by R. Shankar) were measured in 20 healthy persons (10 women, 10 men; mean age 25 [20-33] years) and 20 hypertensives (8 women, 12 men; mean age 57.5 [25-72] years). To recognise haemodynamic effects, mitral flow by Doppler ultrasound was used as a measure of left-ventricular diastolic function. Atrial filling pressure (AFF) was calculated from the flow integral (VTI) of the early E and the late A waves. The Zerssen scale was used to estimate the immediate mood of the subjects. In hypertensives the levels of cortisol (74 vs 78 ng/ml; P < 0.05) and t-PA antigen (4.3 vs 4.5 ng/ml; P < 0.05) were lower after than before the Strauss waltz. The muscle by Henze lowered the concentrations of cortisol (70 vs 84 ng/ml; P < 0.05), noradrenaline (203 vs 224 ng/l; P < 0.05) and t-PA antigen (4.1 vs 4.6 ng/ml; P < 0.05). After listening to the piece by Shankar the concentrations of cortisol (71 vs 78 ng/ml; P < 0.05), adrenaline 14.5 vs 24.5 ng/ml; P < 0.05) and t-PA antigen (4.2 vs 4.3 ng/ml; P < 0.05) were lower. In healthy subjects AFF (29 vs 26%; P < 0.05) rose after the Strauss music, VTI-E fell (69 vs 73 mm; P < 0.05, while natriuretic peptide rose (63 vs 60 pg/ml; P < 0.05.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Article
The influence of dinner music on food intake and symptoms common in dementia such as depressed mood, irritability and restlessness was studied. The study was carried out in a nursing-home ward in Sweden. Soothing music was played as dinner music for weeks, Swedish tunes form the 1920s and 1930s for two weeks and pop music for two weeks. Prior to these periods, there was one week without music, and at the end of the intervention there was a two-week control period. The effects of the intervention were assessed by psychological ratings and by weighing the food helpings. It was found that during all three music periods the patients ate more in total. The difference was particularly significant for the dessert. The staff were thought to be influenced by the music, as they served the patients more food, both main course and dessert, whenever music was played. The patients were less irritable, anxious and depressed during the music periods. The results of the study suggest that dinner music, particularly soothing music, can reduce irritability, fear-panic and depressed mood and can stimulate demented patients in a nursing-home ward into eating more.
Article
The response of four singly caged baboons to radio music was measured using behavioral and physiological indices. Heart rate and blood pressure, measured through a tether system, as well as behavior, were recorded during a two-week period in which radio music was available in half of the samples. The behavior of the subjects, as well as their blood pressure, did not vary in relation to radio music. Heart rate was significantly lower when the radio was on.
Article
The majority of sheltered dogs are overlooked for purchase because they are considered undesirable by potential buyers. Many factors may determine a dog's appeal, although of interest here are the dog's behaviour and cage environment which can influence its desirability. People prefer dogs which are at the front rather than the back of the cage, quiet as opposed to barking, and alert rather than non-alert. Potential buyers also prefer dogs which are held in complex as opposed to barren environments. This study examined the behaviour of sheltered dogs in response to environmental change, to determine whether it influenced dog behaviour in ways that could be perceived as desirable to potential dog buyers, and/or had any effect upon the incidence of dogs purchased from the shelter. One hundred and twenty dogs sheltered by the Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals were studied over a 4-h period. The dogs' position in the cage, vocalisation, and activity were investigated in response to increased human social stimulation, moving the dog's bed to the front of the cage, or suspending a toy from the front of the dog's cage. Social stimulation resulted in dogs spending more time at the front of the enclosure, more time standing, and slightly more time barking. Moving the bed to the front of the cage encouraged dogs to this position, but did not influence activity or vocalisation. Suspending a toy at the front of the pen exerted no effect on dog behaviour, although its presence in the pen may help to promote more positive perceptions of dog desirability. The incidence of dogs purchased from the rescue shelter increased whenever the dogs' cages were fitted with a bed at the front of the pen, whenever the dogs were subjected to increased regular human contact, and whenever a toy was placed at the front of the enclosure. Findings highlight the important role that cage environment can play in shaping the behaviour of sheltered dogs and influencing whether or not an animal will become purchased.
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