Presentation Details
| Exploring Off-Premise Treatments for Chronically Fearful Shelter Dogs Regina Willen. Halok9behavior, Xenia, OH, USA |
Abstract
Chronic fear is the most challenging behavior problems for shelter dogs, leading to diminished welfare, failure to adapt, and euthanasia. Our previous work demonstrated that human interaction was sufficient to alleviate the initial fear dogs exhibit upon entering a shelter, reducing recommendation for euthanasia (Willen et al., 2019, Appl Anim Behav Sci, 217, 57-62). However, chronic fear is more challenging to treat in the shelter environment. Therefore, we have explored an off‑premise rehabilitation model at HaloK9Behavior for chronically fearful dogs. Our facility is structured to reduce environmental stress through homelike living spaces, predictable routines, and limited exposure to overwhelming stimuli. Each dog receives an individualized treatment plan incorporating both human and canine social interactions. Anecdotal observations suggest that dogs exhibiting severe, treatment‑resistant fear in shelters show significant improvement once removed from the shelter environment and placed in our setting. We will report on the nature of this facility, the procedures used to assess chronic fear and its reduction, and the initial results of dogs undergoing 30-day treatment plans.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author.
Content Locked. Log into a registered attendee account to access this presentation.