Physiological Adaptation to Shelter Living in Dogs

Authors

Patricia A. Schiml-Webb, Wright State University - Main CampusFollow
Michael B. Hennessy, Wright State University - Main CampusFollow
Jessie L. Hawke
Victoria L. Voith
Fran Linden
Gary M. Davenport

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

6-2003

Abstract

Dogs in shelters are exposed to various psychological stressors, including novelty, separation from attachment figures, and noise. Previous studies have shown that shelter living produces elevations in hypothalamic–pituitary–activity (HPA) activity and suggest that a dysregulation between pituitary and adrenal activity may occur as a dog’s stay is prolonged. To further examine these issues, we performed a fine-grained analysis of pituitary–adrenal measures over the course of a dog’s first 14 days in a county animal shelter. The effect of diet on hormonal measures was also assessed.

Comments

Abstract of presentation presented at the Society for Behavioral Neuroendocrinology Annual Meeting, Cincinnati, OH, June 25-28, 2003.

Repository Citation

Schiml-Webb, P. A., Hennessy, M. B., Hawke, J. L., Voith, V. L., Linden, F., & Davenport, G. M. (2003). Physiological Adaptation to Shelter Living in Dogs. Hormones and Behavior, 44 (1), 75.
https://corescholar.libraries.wright.edu/psychology/224

DOI

10.1016/S0018-506X(03)00068-0