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Posted: 30th May 2014

Fewer visitors could improve rescue dog welfare
dog in kennels
Researchers found the dogs were more relaxed when they met potential rehomers on a one-to-one basis, away from kennels.
Research shows dogs are more relaxed when kennel visitors are limited

Rescue dogs are less relaxed when members of the public regularly visit their kennels. This is according to new research by the University of Lincoln, which has led one rehoming charity to change its policy on visitors.

During a six-week project, researchers analysed the behaviour and physiology of 15 dogs at Jerry Green Dog Rescue in south Lincolnshire. The observed kennel noise and the dogs' responses to human interaction during both limited and open visitor access.
 
Open visitor access meant members of the public were allowed to view the dogs without supervision during a two-and-a-half hour period each day (except Wednesday).

Limited access on the other hand meant dogs were introduced to owners on a one-to-one basis only, away from the kennel environment.

According to findings published in the journal Physiology and Behaviour, dogs were significantly quieter when visitor access was restricted, and displayed signs suggesting they were more relaxed.

As a result of the study, Jerry Green Dog Rescue has changed its policy on visitors across its five centres. Chief executive David Foulds said the findings have had a "huge impact" on the way the charity cares for its dogs.

"Dogs that are being rehomed can suffer from stress as they’re getting used to a new environment and new people," he explained. "We wanted to find ways to improve how we care for our dogs, and this study gave us the opportunity to do so."

The charity has since introduced Meet and Match. Potential rehomers are now interviewed and matched to a dog, before meeting him in an environment away from the kennels.

Mr Foulds said the practice has had "a positive impact" on the welfare of its dogs.

Dr Sarah Ellis, research fellow from the university's School of Life Sciences, said the findings have "provided a strong evidence base on how to directly improve upon kennelled dog welfare."


 

 




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