New Study Highlights Benefits of Pair-Housing Shelter Dogs
A recent study published in PLoS ONE reveals that shelter dogs paired with well-matched roommates exhibit lower stress levels and are adopted more swiftly compared to those housed alone. This groundbreaking research highlights the importance of social interaction for dogs in shelters.
Understanding the Social Needs of Shelter Dogs
In traditional shelter settings, dogs are often kept alone to mitigate risks such as injury and disease transmission. However, the new research indicates that co-housing can provide significant behavioral and physiological advantages for these animals.
Research Methodology
The study monitored the behavior of 61 dogs, dividing them into two groups: 30 dogs were “single-housed,” while the remaining were “pair-housed.” The observation period lasted for seven days, during which researchers recorded various stress indicators and collected urine samples for cortisol analysis.
Key Findings: Reduced Stress and Increased Adoptability
- Pair-housed shelter dogs displayed fewer stress-related behaviors, such as lip licking, whining, and the classic submissive posture of ears back.
- Analysis of cortisol:creatinine levels showed that pair-housed dogs experienced a more significant decrease in stress hormones compared to their single-housed counterparts.
- On average, pair-housed dogs had a shorter length of stay in the shelter, about four days less than those housed alone.
Erica Feuerbacher, an associate professor of applied animal welfare and behavior at Virginia Polytechnic and State University, emphasized the chronic stress shelter dogs face. According to Feuerbacher, “Dogs housed in shelters can face chronic levels of stress due to noise, confined kennel spaces, and limited access to social interaction.”
The Impact on Adoption Rates
The findings suggest that pairing shelter dogs can enhance their appeal to potential adopters, especially those who already own dogs or seek socially compatible pets. Feuerbacher noted that showcasing the social skills of dogs could improve their chances of finding a forever home:
“Clearly exhibiting that a dog can successfully interact with other dogs might highlight those dogs as good matches – leading to more successful adoptions.”
Positive Interactions and Concerns
Additionally, the research indicated that pair-housed dogs engaged in more affiliative behaviors and enjoyed positive interactions. However, the study authors acknowledged the potential for aggression in paired dogs, emphasizing the importance of closely monitoring these pairs during their initial days together to ensure compatibility.
Conclusion
The study underscores that the welfare of shelter dogs can be significantly improved through pair-housing arrangements. As shelters seek innovative ways to enhance the lives of their canine residents and increase adoption rates, fostering positive social interactions may prove to be a key strategy.
