Presentation Details
| Effects of Structured Human Enrichment on Adoption Outcomes of Recently Admitted Shelter Dogs Jayden Weinstein, Eliza Beckett, Dean Brook, Lydia Easler, Dr Lisa Cantwell. Wofford College, Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA |
Abstract
Animal shelter environments often elevate stress levels in dogs, which can negatively affect welfare and adoption outcomes. This study evaluates whether brief, structured human enrichment reduces physiological indicators of stress, measured through urinary cortisol, in recently admitted shelter dogs and whether these interactions influence adoption rates. Dogs are assigned to one of three groups: no enrichment (control), enrichment with a consistent handler, or enrichment with rotating handlers. Enrichment sessions occur over four consecutive days, and we collected cortisol samples at the beginning and end of the trial period. We hypothesize that enriched dogs exhibit lower cortisol levels than control dogs at the end of the four-day trial. We also predict that dogs receiving enrichment are adopted at higher rates than dogs in the control group. This study provides practical, evidence-based strategies that shelters can implement to reduce stress and improve adoption outcomes for dogs.
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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.
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