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Abstract The increasing trend of dog ownership is often linked to its perceived benefits for human physical and mental well-being. However, the psychological and practical demands of caring for a dog can significantly impact the owner’s quality of life and the long-term success of the dog-owner relationship. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of both the advantages and disadvantages of dog ownership, as perceived by a convenience sample of Hungarian dog owners (N = 246), who were assumed to be generally satisfied with their dogs. The study employed both quantitative (a Cost/Benefit scale consisting of 33 neutrally-phrased statements rated on a seven-point scale, from − 3 to + 3) and qualitative methods (two open-ended questions). Quantitative results showed that owners rated the short lifespan of dogs as the most negative aspect, while the belief that dogs brighten their lives was rated most positively. On average, positive statements were rated significantly higher (2.06) than negative ones (−0.66), supporting the prediction from social exchange theory that dog owners in a voluntary sample tend to perceive more advantages than disadvantages in dog ownership. Qualitative findings revealed six ‘benefit’ and three ‘cost’ themes. 61% of owners considered the meaningful relationship with their dog as the greatest benefit, frequently mentioning the dog’s constant presence, love, and support. Additionally, 15% highlighted the relationship with another species and the dog’s intrinsic qualities, indicating the biophilia effect of dog ownership. Regarding the costs, 95% of respondents identified financial, particularly health-related expenses, as the most significant drawback, and only 4–5% mentioned emotional or practical burdens. In the quantitative data, principal component analysis revealed three core components of the dog ownership experience: (1) emotional, physical, and social benefits, (2) negative emotions and practical challenges, and (3) time and emotional commitment. Overall, the results suggest clear costs and benefits, though some aspects, such as daily care, holiday arrangements, and training, were seen as both beneficial and disadvantageous, depending on the owner. Even within a convenience sample, the diversity in dog and owner characteristics was sufficient to explain why certain facets of dog ownership are experienced differently.

Dog ownership has been associated with several complex traits, and there is evidence of genetic influence. We performed a genome-wide association study of dog ownership through a meta-analysis of 31,566 Swedish twins in 5 discovery cohorts and an additional 65,986 European-ancestry individuals in 3 replication cohorts from Sweden, Norway, and the United Kingdom. Association tests with >7.4 million single-nucleotide polymorphisms were meta-analyzed using a fixed effect model after controlling for population structure and relatedness. We identified 2 suggestive loci using discovery cohorts, which did not reach genome-wide significance after meta-analysis with replication cohorts. Single-nucleotide polymorphism-based heritability of dog ownership using linkage disequilibrium score regression was estimated at 0.123 (CI 0.038–0.207) using the discovery cohorts and 0.018 (CI −0.002 to 0.039) when adding in replication cohorts. Negative genetic correlation with complex traits including type 2 diabetes, depression, neuroticism, and asthma was only found using discovery summary data. Furthermore, we did not identify any genes/gene-sets reaching even a suggestive level of significance. This genome-wide association study does not, by itself, provide clear evidence on common genetic variants that influence dog ownership among European-ancestry individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thus far, few cross-sectional studies have investigated the association between pet ownership and psychosocial factors. As longitudinal studies on this topic are mostly lacking, this study aimed to analyze the association between pet ownership and psychosocial factors (in terms of depressive symptoms, loneliness, social isolation, and life satisfaction) using a longitudinal approach. The data used were taken from the German Ageing Survey (DEAS), a nationally representative sample of community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults (n = 12,438 observations). Two waves were used (year 2014 and year 2017). Validated multi-item scales were used to measure psychosocial factors. Linear fixed effects (FE) regressions were performed. In summary, only a few significant longitudinal associations were detected in regression analyses. No associations between general pet ownership and psychosocial factors were found. However, cat ownership was significantly longitudinally associated with increases in loneliness levels among the total sample and men. Cat ownership was also significantly longitudinally associated with increases in social isolation levels among men. Among women, dog ownership was significantly longitudinally associated with decreases in life satisfaction. This study reveals some associations between pet ownership and unfavorable psychosocial factors longitudinally. These associations were only significant for subgroups (cat vs. dog ownership and females vs. males). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The connection between pet ownership and human well-being, especially the role of dogs, has been an area of increased focus for researchers. This qualitative study investigates the intricate relationship between physical and mental health in women who have dogs. Through semi-structured interviews with 20 women and open-ended questions designed specifically for the topic, this study provided a platform for participants to share their experiences and thoughts, leading to a deeper understanding of the issue. The research strongly indicates that having a dog has a beneficial effect on mental health. Participants reported feeling less stress and anxiety, an uplift in spirits, and increased motivation. They also noted enhanced social bonds and emotional support from their canine companions. Conversely, the study also calls attention to specific challenges linked with dog ownership. The financial burden, time investment, and care responsibilities could increase stress for some. Health conditions or allergies could intensify discomfort for dog owners, and the emotional impact of a pet's illness or loss could lead to profound grief. The study underscores the importance of acknowledging individual factors that influence the impact of dog ownership on mental health. By recognizing the benefits and the challenges of having a dog, individuals can make more informed choices about pet ownership and better prepare for any associated difficulties. Further research is necessary to deepen our understanding of the dynamics between human and canine well-being and devise strategies to enhance the mental health benefits for dogs and their owners. Supporting the human-canine relationship could significantly improve mental well-being and overall quality of life. Key Words: Dog ownership; Women; Well-being; Emotional Support; Mental Health

The interplay between tourism and dog ownership presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for sustainability. The relationship between tourism, dog ownership, and sustainability forms a complex nexus that is becoming increasingly relevant in contemporary socio-economic and environmental contexts. Tourism significantly impacts local economies and environments, and its relationship with dog ownership manifests in various ways. Tourist destinations that promote pet-friendly policies can see an increase in visitor numbers as dog owners are more inclined to visit places where their pets are welcomed. This can lead to increased spending in these areas but also poses potential sustainability challenges such as increased waste production and environmental degradation. Conversely, the presence of dogs in tourist areas can enhance the visitor experience, encouraging longer stays and promoting mental and physical well-being through pet interaction. This aspect can lead to a more sustainable form of tourism that values longer visits over quick, high-impact travel. However, managing the environmental impact of a larger number of pets, including waste management and habitat disturbance, is crucial for sustainability. Sustainability in the context of tourism and dog ownership also extends to the practices of accommodations and tourist attractions, such as the provision of eco-friendly pet amenities, promoting responsible pet ownership, and ensuring that tourism development does not harm local wildlife and ecosystems.

Simple Summary: This study examined patterns of dog ownership in three different states in India. The main aim was to understand who owns dogs, their reasons for owning them, and how these patterns vary in different areas. We conducted quantitative surveys to gather information on the number of people who own dogs, their backgrounds, and their attitudes towards their pets. Our findings show that there are significant differences in dog ownership depending on where people live and their economic status. In particular, we found settlements in Gujarat state to possess significantly fewer privately owned dogs that Tamil Nadu and Uttarakhand. These results are important because they help us understand the needs of dog owners and their pets in different parts of India. This information can be used by those making decisions about public health and animal welfare, such as how to manage stray dogs or prevent diseases that can spread from dogs to humans. This study is valuable as it provides a clearer picture of dog ownership in India, which can help improve the lives of both people and animals. This paper presents the demographics, dynamics, and attitudes of dog ownership across three states in India. The background of this research is set against the increasing significance of pet ownership in urban Indian contexts, with a particular focus on understanding the variations in dog-ownership patterns and their implications for public health and animal welfare. We employed a survey-based approach, gathering quantitative survey data from dog owners (n = 563) and non-dog-owners (n = 9282) across different socioeconomic and geographic backgrounds in seven Indian settlements. The results reveal notable differences in dog-ownership patterns, influenced by regional state. In particular, settlements in Gujarat were found to have significantly fewer dog-owning households than those in Tamil Nadu, with no differences found according to settlement size. Dog ownership was found to be more common in households of higher socioeconomic standing, and settlements in Uttarakhand were found more frequently to possess dogs for reasons other than companionship. Data from Ahmedabad and Vadodara, specifically, also indicate rapidly increasing rates of pet ownership. Sterilisation and rabies vaccination proportions were typically low and high, respectively, across all settlements, with few significant differences found among settlements. Confinement of owned dogs at night was significantly lower in Nainital than all other settlements. Differences in attitudes towards roaming dogs between dog owners and non-dog-owners were also examined, with the results indicating both positive and negative trends accordingly. Our results emphasise the need for region-specific strategies in public health and animal welfare policies, acknowledging the diverse nature of pet ownership in India. This research provides valuable insight for policymakers and animal welfare organisations, underlining the importance of tailored approaches to address the unique challenges and opportunities in the Indian context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction Regular physical activity is important for children’s physical and mental health, yet many children do not achieve recommended amounts of physical activity. Dog ownership has been associated with increased physical activity in children, however, there have been no longitudinal studies examining this relationship. This study used data from the Play Spaces and Environments for Children’s Physical Activity (PLAYCE) cohort study to examine the longitudinal effects of dog ownership status on children’s movement behaviours. Methods Change in dog ownership from preschool (wave 1, age 2–5) to fulltime school (wave 2, age 5–7) was used as a natural experiment with four distinct dog ownership groups: continuing non-dog owners (n = 307), continuing dog owners (n = 204), dog acquired (n = 58), and dog loss (n = 31; total n = 600). Daily movement behaviours, including physical activity, sedentary time, sleep, and screen time, were measured using accelerometry and parent-report surveys. Differences between groups over time and by sex were tested using linear mixed effects regression models. Results Girls who acquired a dog increased their light intensity activities and games by 52.0 min/day (95%CI 7.9, 96.0) and girls who lost a dog decreased their light intensity activities and games by 62.1 min/day (95%CI -119.3, -4.9) compared to no change among non-dog owners. Girls and boys who acquired a dog increased their unstructured physical activity by 6.8 (95%CI 3.2, 10.3) and 7.1 (95%CI 3.9, 10.3) occasions/week, compared to no changes among non-dog owners. Girls and boys who lost a dog reduced their unstructured physical activity by 10.2 (95%CI -15.0, -5.3) and 7.7 (95%CI -12.0, -3.5) occasions/week. Girls who lost a dog decreased their total physical activity by 46.3 min/day (95%CI -107.5, 14.8) compared to no change among non-dog owners. Continuing dog ownership was typically not associated with movement behaviours. Dog ownership group was not associated with changes in sleep and had mixed associations with screen time. Conclusion The positive influence of dog ownership on children’s physical activity begins in early childhood and differs by child sex. Further research should examine the specific contributions dog-facilitated physical activity makes to children’s overall physical activity, including the intensity and duration of dog walking and play.

Abstract Background Recovery from substance use is commonly seen as a process of integrating social relationships and creating a sense of meaning in one’s life. Dog owners describe a close relationship with their dog that impacts many aspects of their everyday life. Yet for individuals with substance use disorder (SUD), little is known about how dog ownership could affect their lives. The aim of this study was to explore how people living with SUD experience and describe their everyday life when owning a dog. Method Eight semi-structured in-depth individual interviews were conducted with people having personal experience of living with SUD and owning a dog. Data were gathered and analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results The analysis yielded four categories, reflecting different aspects of dog ownership. Living with SUD and owning a dog was primarily something positive in their life. People increased their social connections personally and within society. They felt a belonging which gave a sense of agency and purpose, and they developed structure in their day and boundaries to their environment. Dog ownership, however, could hinder access to services which was found to be challenging for some participants. Conclusions The owning of a dog can lead to changes that parallel those of a recovery process. This finding adds to the research on the connection that dogs can provide and shows how pertinent this can be particularly for vulnerable persons such as those with SUD.

Introduction Regular physical activity is important for children’s physical and mental health, yet many children do not achieve recommended amounts of physical activity. Dog ownership has been associated with increased physical activity in children, however, there have been no longitudinal studies examining this relationship. This study used data from the Play Spaces and Environments for Children’s Physical Activity (PLAYCE) cohort study to examine the longitudinal efects of dog ownership status on children’s movement behaviours. Methods Change in dog ownership from preschool (wave 1, age 2–5) to fulltime school (wave 2, age 5–7) was used as a natural experiment with four distinct dog ownership groups: continuing non-dog owners (n=307), continuing dog owners (n=204), dog acquired (n=58), and dog loss (n=31; total n=600). Daily movement behaviours, including physical activity, sedentary time, sleep, and screen time, were measured using accelerometry and parent-report surveys. Diferences between groups over time and by sex were tested using linear mixed efects regression models. Results Girls who acquired a dog increased their light intensity activities and games by 52.0 min/day (95%CI 7.9, 96.0) and girls who lost a dog decreased their light intensity activities and games by 62.1 min/day (95%CI -119.3, -4.9) compared to no change among non-dog owners. Girls and boys who acquired a dog increased their unstructured physical activity by 6.8 (95%CI 3.2, 10.3) and 7.1 (95%CI 3.9, 10.3) occasions/week, compared to no changes among nondog owners. Girls and boys who lost a dog reduced their unstructured physical activity by 10.2 (95%CI -15.0, -5.3) and 7.7 (95%CI -12.0, -3.5) occasions/week. Girls who lost a dog decreased their total physical activity by 46.3 min/ day (95%CI -107.5, 14.8) compared to no change among non-dog owners. Continuing dog ownership was typically not associated with movement behaviours. Dog ownership group was not associated with changes in sleep and had mixed associations with screen time. Conclusion The positive infuence of dog ownership on children’s physical activity begins in early childhood and differs by child sex. Further research should examine the specifc contributions dog-facilitated physical activity makes to children’s overall physical activity, including the intensity and duration of dog walking and play. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thus far, few cross-sectional studies have investigated the association between pet ownership and psychosocial factors. As longitudinal studies on this topic are mostly lacking, this study aimed to analyze the association between pet ownership and psychosocial factors (in terms of depressive symptoms, loneliness, social isolation, and life satisfaction) using a longitudinal approach. The data used were taken from the German Ageing Survey (DEAS), a nationally representative sample of community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults (n = 12,438 observations). Two waves were used (year 2014 and year 2017). Validated multi-item scales were used to measure psychosocial factors. Linear fixed effects (FE) regressions were performed. In summary, only a few significant longitudinal associations were detected in regression analyses. No associations between general pet ownership and psychosocial factors were found. However, cat ownership was significantly longitudinally associated with increases in loneliness levels among the total sample and men. Cat ownership was also significantly longitudinally associated with increases in social isolation levels among men. Among women, dog ownership was significantly longitudinally associated with decreases in life satisfaction. This study reveals some associations between pet ownership and unfavorable psychosocial factors longitudinally. These associations were only significant for subgroups (cat vs. dog ownership and females vs. males).

Background: Recovery from substance use is commonly seen as a process of integrating social relationships and creating a sense of meaning in one's life. Dog owners describe a close relationship with their dog that impacts many aspects of their everyday life. Yet for individuals with substance use disorder (SUD), little is known about how dog ownership could affect their lives. The aim of this study was to explore how people living with SUD experience and describe their everyday life when owning a dog. Method: Eight semi-structured in-depth individual interviews were conducted with people having personal experience of living with SUD and owning a dog. Data were gathered and analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results: The analysis yielded four categories, reflecting different aspects of dog ownership. Living with SUD and owning a dog was primarily something positive in their life. People increased their social connections personally and within society. They felt a belonging which gave a sense of agency and purpose, and they developed structure in their day and boundaries to their environment. Dog ownership, however, could hinder access to services which was found to be challenging for some participants. Conclusions: The owning of a dog can lead to changes that parallel those of a recovery process. This finding adds to the research on the connection that dogs can provide and shows how pertinent this can be particularly for vulnerable persons such as those with SUD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in widescale changes to how UK puppy buyers purchased their puppies. Many of these changes threatened canine welfare by increasing the likelihood of buyers purchasing a puppy from a low-welfare source, e.g., collecting a puppy away from its place of birth or without seeing their mother, both of which are currently illegal in the UK. However, whether these puppy-purchasing changes were limited only to the 2020 'peak pandemic' phase and had returned to their pre-pandemic baseline afterwards or had persisted into the later phases of the pandemic in 2021 was not known. This study explored how and why puppies were purchased in 2021 and then compared this to the same date-periods in 2020 and 2019. Valid responses were analysed from the owners of 1148 "2019 puppies", 4369 "2020 Pandemic Puppies", and 2080 "2021 puppies". Although some of the peak pandemic changes had returned to pre-pandemic levels in 2021, some worrying trends still persisted, including 2021 puppies being less likely to be viewed in-person pre-purchase or to be collected from inside their breeders' property, compared to 2019 puppies. Furthermore, concerning year-on-year increases were documented between 2019 and 2021 in the number of puppies being sold with a passport indicating importation to the UK, often under the minimum legal age for import. The issues identified in this paper require further monitoring and intervention to protect canine welfare in the future. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a surge in acquisitions of puppies in the UK, dubbed the "Pandemic Puppy" phenomenon. In addition to an increased demand for puppies, widespread changes to both why and how puppies were purchased during this period compared to pre-pandemic 2019 purchases were documented, many of which threatened canine welfare (e.g., puppies being collected away from their place of birth, without seeing their mother). This study aimed to explore which changes to the pre-purchase and purchase motivations and behaviours of UK owners who purchased a puppy aged <16 weeks in the 2020 phase of the COVID-19 pandemic had persisted into 2021 or had returned to pre-pandemic 2019 levels. An online survey was conducted during February to April 2022 from which 2080 valid responses were analysed ("2021 puppies") and compared with previously collected data from comparable cohorts in 2019 (n = 1148, "2019 puppies") and 2020 (n = 4369, "Pandemic Puppies"). While the majority of the peak pandemic changes documented in 2020 had returned to their 2019 pre-pandemic baseline, others persisted into 2021. Multinomial logistic regression models revealed that the shifts during 2020 towards owners viewing their puppy pre-purchase over video calls or via video recordings/photos rather than in-person and towards collecting their puppy from outside of their breeders' property rather than inside had persisted into 2021 and had not returned to pre-pandemic levels. Year-on-year significant rises in the number of puppies sold with a passport were documented between 2019 and 2021, with over 1 in 10 2021 puppies having been sold with a passport, the figure more than doubling since 2019. An increasing number of these puppies sold with a passport were under the minimum legal age for import at sale. Going forward, these concerning changes require further monitoring and human behaviour change interventions to tackle, including increased buyer awareness but also legislative approaches to prevent the greatest harm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This contribution aimed to highlight the importance of the legal framework on human-dog interactions to better understand the "more‐than‐human cosmopolitanism". Thus, it gives insight into the never-ending debate of how we can share the living space with other forms of life. The study acknowledged the inconsistencies between community members' and experts' opinions on the best methods to prevent dogs' attacks, the imperative to consider concerns for animal welfare and public safety while improving the legitimacy of different implemented measures. The seriousness of the dog control problem determined the enactment of laws to limit or ban dogs purely on their breed/type. The study explores Romanian citizens beliefs regarding law labeled "dangerous" dogs within the context of Romanian breed-specific legislation (Governmental Emergency Ordinance No. 55 of 2002). An overwhelming majority of respondents considered that a dog's dangerousness must be assessed individually, according to each specimen's characteristics, and regardless of the breed/type to which it belongs. A significant percentage of people were unaware of the legal regime in place for "dangerous" dog breeds. Responsible dog ownership intertwined with learning to care could solve the societal annoyance of "blacklisted" dog breeds/type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Incorporation of animal-assisted services is an emerging field of occupational therapy practice. While the owner–dog relationship is an important component supporting positive outcomes, pets also represent an added responsibility, with pet care a little-understood role for occupational therapists. The present study drew on attachment theory to investigate associations between owner attachment pattern, care of the dog, relationship with and closeness to the dog and perceptions of the dog's personality. Method: Participants (N = 97) completed an online survey using standardised measures. Results: Quality of the relationship with the pet dog was associated with the level of care provided to the dog, with stronger relationships associated with higher levels of care. While owner attachment pattern was not directly linked with the care provided to the dog, it was related to distress at being separated from the dog and perceptions of the dog's personality. Conclusion: The present study supports existing findings that an attachment bond is present between owner and dog, and that this bond is linked with the care provided to the dog. Occupational therapists may facilitate the developing relationships between dog owners and their dogs, as well as supporting care of the dog, to optimise outcomes for both. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human alveolar echinococcosis is caused by the parasite Echinococcus multilocularis, and dog ownership has been identified as a risk factor. We sought to specify the factors of dog ownership underlying this risk by conducting a case–control study among dog owners in Germany. The analysis revealed an increased odds ratio of ≈7-fold for dog owners whose dogs roam unattended in fields, 13-fold for dog owners who feed their dogs organic waste daily, 4-fold for dog owners who take their dog to a veterinarian only in case of illness, and 10-fold for dog owners who have never been informed by a veterinarian about the risk for infection. The results highlight the risk for infection associated with various factors of dog ownership and the value of veterinarians informing owners about prevention.

Simple Summary: "Designer dogs", or the hybrid offspring of two purebred dogs, are an extremely popular pet choice in the United States. However, there are many misconceptions surrounding them, and the reality of owning one may not match the owner's expectations. For instance, many people believe these dogs to be non-shedding, hypoallergenic, and low maintenance; however, this is not always the case. This study compared owner expectations and reality associated with owning purebred dogs, mixed-breed dogs, and designer breeds—specifically, doodles (i.e., poodle hybrids, such as Labradoodles and Cockapoos). We found that the decision to acquire a doodle was driven largely by the appearance of doodles and by the perception that they are good with children and generally healthy. Our data also showed that meeting the maintenance and grooming needs of doodle dogs required more investment than owners expected. This finding suggests that those interested in owning doodles would benefit from having more information about doodles' grooming requirements so they can better meet their dog's welfare needs. Nevertheless, doodle owners reported being highly satisfied with their dogs. "Designer dogs", which are the hybrid offspring that result from intentionally breeding dogs belonging to different breeds, are an extremely popular pet choice in the United States. Poodle mixes, often called "doodles", are a very common type of designer dog. However, there are many misconceptions surrounding them, and the reality of owning one may not match the owner's expectations. For instance, many people believe these dogs to be non-shedding and hypoallergenic, although this is not always the case. This study explored whether the reality of owning a doodle matches owner expectations. For comparison purposes, we also asked owners of non-doodle dogs about their expectations versus reality. Our survey-based study included 2191 owners of doodles and non-doodle dogs recruited via groups of dog owners on Facebook and Reddit. The data showed that, when selecting their dogs, doodle owners were more influenced than non-doodle owners by their dog's appearance and by the perception that doodles are good with children and are generally healthy. Doodle owners reported being highly satisfied with their dogs; nevertheless, more than twice as many doodle owners than owners of the other groups of dogs reported that their dog's maintenance requirements, such as their need for regular grooming, were more intensive than they had expected. This finding suggests that those interested in owning doodles would benefit from having more information about their dog's grooming needs so they can decide whether they have the time and money required to meet their dog's welfare needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dogs have been recognized as a conservation concern for wildlife. Increasing dog populations have led to a rise in health and ecological problems for humans and wildlife. Dog demography and husbandry practices of dog ownership are key factors for planning population and disease management programs. We conducted a cross-sectional dog demography study in five towns near remnant patches of forest in Central Mexico. The results from surveys applied to 267 households showed high dog ownership (83%). The human dog ratio was 2:1, 2.3 ± SE 1.5 dogs per dog owning household. Mean fecundity rate was 0.8 ± 0.5, with only 11% of the dogs sterilized. Mortality rate was higher in pups than dogs surpassing the year (1.3 vs. 0.12). Overall, vaccination coverage against rabies was higher (81%) than against distemper virus and canine parvovirus (26%). Average dog density for all sites was 1,777 dogs/km2. Free-roaming was allowed to 82% of the dogs. Regarding wildlife interactions, 64% of owners have observed wildlife near their houses and 23% have observed a negative interaction, such as predation or chasing of dogs over native fauna. The high densities and high rates of free-roaming dogs found in the study suggest that is likely that dogs harass, compete or predate on wildlife. A high density of dogs and the low vaccination coverage against some pathogens of animal health concern, increases the risk of cross-species transmission between domestic and wild carnivores. Awareness-raising campaigns for dog owners and a dog population management program are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract There is a set of hypotheses commonly used in the literature to explain how pets affect human well-being (e.g., pets as social catalysts). Many studies are reported as giving results consistent with one or more of these, but they may not appear to be sufficient to explain the impacts of several pet-related activities on owner well-being. Confirmation bias may also overshadow the consideration of alternative mechanisms. This report aims to review and evaluate a range of psychosocial hypotheses that might help to explain how pets affect the well-being of their owners. This included a theoretical testing of the hypotheses against the recurring themes which emerged from four previously published qualitative frameworks relating to pet-related activities and their well-being outcomes. Twelve psychosocial hypotheses were generated and evaluated using this process: (1) social catalyst-repellent, (2) emotional contagion and empathy, (3) social support, (4) biophilia, (5) attributed fault, (6) social norms, (7) annoyance by noises, (8) routine, (9) caring, (10) exercise, (11) learning, and (12) affective touch. Only three presented potentially contradictory evidence (i.e., social catalyst-repellent, routine, and caring hypotheses), but closer examination revealed that these could not be rejected. These twelve hypotheses are a source of reference for a broader consideration of how pets might affect human well-being. Researchers are encouraged to use, test and/or challenge these hypotheses using established methods of scientific falsification in order to identify which are of the most important in relation to specific owner well-being outcomes.

Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are one of the most common pets around the world but ownership patterns and human-dog interactions have been changing, particularly in developing nations. We conducted household surveys in Costa Rica to characterize dog ownership, the owned dog population, where dogs were confined at night and in the morning, and behaviors regarding selected dog care issues. We also compared these results to similar questionnaires used in Costa Rica over the past 20 years. We found 76% of households in Costa Rica owned at least one dog and on average there were about 1.4 dogs owned per household. These dog ownership rates are higher than previous estimates. The probability of owning a dog was highest on farms and lowest in single family dwellings without a yard, higher among respondents that owned their homes and decreasing with increasing human population density The total number of owned dogs in Costa Rica was estimated to be 2,222,032 (95% confidence intervals: 1,981,497–2,503,751). The sterilization rate for homed dogs in 2020 was approximately 62% (females: 67%, males: 61%) which is higher than the 18% of owned dogs that were sterilized in a 2003 survey. Overall, only 1.2% (95% CI: 0.3–2.5%) of owned dogs slept on the street with a slightly higher proportion on the street at 8 am. The number of owned dogs roaming the streets at night nation-wide was estimated to be 27,208 (95% CI: 7,557–56,619) compared to 43,142 (95% CI: 20,118–73,618) on the street at 8 am. The number of unowned free-roaming dogs in Costa Rica has never been estimated but we can generate some idea of the size of the unowned dog population by determining the proportion of free-roaming dogs on the street wearing collars. There was a negative relationship between human population density and owned dogs being on the street meaning fewer dogs roam the streets in highly populated areas compared to less populated areas. Overall, we identify trends against which future progress can be measured and provide information that are critical in designing effective humane dog management programs in Costa Rica in the future.

Personal wellbeing is greatly influenced by our childhood and adolescence, and the relationships formed during those phases of our development. The human-dog bond represents a significant relationship that started thousands of years ago. There is a higher prevalence of dog ownership around the world, especially in households including children. This has resulted in a growing number of researchers studying our interactions with dogs and an expanding evidence base from the exploration of child-dog interactions. We review the potential effects of child-dog interactions on the physical, mental, and social wellbeing of both species. A search of the SCOPUS database identified documents published between January 1980 and April 2022. Filtering for key inclusion criteria, duplicate removals, and inspecting the references of these documents for additional sources, we reviewed a total of 393 documents, 88% of which were scientific articles. We were able to define the numerous ways in which children and dogs interact, be it neutral (e.g., sharing a common area), positive (e.g., petting), or negative (e.g., biting). Then, we found evidence for an association between childhood interaction with dogs and an array of benefits such as increased physical activities, a reduction of stress, and the development of empathy. Nonetheless, several detrimental outcomes have also been identified for both humans and dogs. Children are the most at-risk population regarding dog bites and dog-borne zoonoses, which may lead to injuries/illness, a subsequent fear of dogs, or even death. Moreover, pet bereavement is generally inevitable when living with a canine companion and should not be trivialized. With a canine focus, children sometimes take part in caretaking behaviors toward them, such as feeding or going for walks. These represent opportunities for dogs to relieve themselves outside, but also to exercise and socialize. By contrast, a lack of physical activity can lead to the onset of obesity in both dogs and children. Dogs may present greater levels of stress when in the presence of children. Finally, the welfare of assistance, therapy, and free-roaming dogs who may interact with children remains underexplored. Overall, it appears that the benefits of child-dog interactions outweigh the risks for children but not for dogs; determination of the effects on both species, positive as well as negative, still requires further development. We call for longitudinal studies and cross-cultural research in the future to better understand the impact of child-dog interactions. Our review is important for people in and outside of the scientific community, to pediatricians, veterinarians, and current or future dog owners seeking to extend their knowledge, and to inform future research of scientists studying dogs and human-animal interactions.

Background: The population is ageing, and psychiatric disorders are common in older people. Those are associated with worsened quality of life. Although the positive relationship between dog ownership and physical health has been documented, data on mental health are scarcer, especially in community-dwelling older adults.Objective: We sought to establish whether owning a dog was associated with a lower number of symptoms of psychological disorders in community-dwelling older adults.Methods: We conducted a systematic review of the literature published between January 2005 and December 2020. We analysed comparative studies of the level of insomnia and symptoms of depression and/or anxiety among community-dwelling dog owners aged 70 and over.Results: The search identified 191 articles, of which 117 full texts were assessed for eligibility. Five cross-sectional studies and one before-after with control group study (assessing a total of 25,138 older adults) were included. The mean (range) NOS score (five studies) was 6.8/9 (5-9) and the EPOC score (one study) was 2/8. The association between the presence of a dog and depressive symptoms did not appear to be significant. Regular contact with a dog was associated with fewer symptoms of anxiety. None of the studies specifically examined sleep disorders.Conclusions: Although the presence of a dog did not appear to be related to the level of depressive symptoms among community-dwelling older adults, there might be a beneficial relationship with anxiety. Further investigation is needed - especially with regard to the type of dog and the type of relationship with the dog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Dog parks contribute physical and social benefits for both canines and their owners, especially during and since the COVID-19 pandemic. However, dogs in public places can create various conflicts. Growing numbers of scholars have explored strategies for effective park design and management. This systematic study synthesizes and analyze the benefits, conflicts, and strategies for the design and management of dog parks according to the PRISMA guidelines. Based on the summary of conflicts between canines, humans, and their environment, we present design and management guidance for dog parks to effectively mitigate these conflicts while enhancing the benefits of off-leash areas. While this study promotes a sustainable and healthy coexistence of canines and residents of built environments through appropriate design and management strategies, several research and practice gaps have been identified from the results, such as the dearth of experimental evidence and limitations of the physical benefits of dog parks. These research gaps provide opportunities for experts to address in future. Dog ownership and dog walking brings various health benefits for urban dwellers, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, but trigger a number of controversies. Dog parks have become increasingly significant public resources in the pandemic to support these benefits while facing intense conflicts. To develop effective dog parks in urban settings, growing numbers of scholars have provided insights into the design and management strategies for addressing the benefits and conflicts. The objective of this study is to synthesize and analyze various aspects of dog park design and management and to assess identified strategies for enhancing their benefits while mitigating their drawbacks. Following the PRISMA guidelines, a systematic study was conducted to synthesize the benefits, conflicts, and management strategies of dog parks, supported by Citespace. Benefits and conflicts in dog park design and management have been synthesized and organized according to their frequency of presence and the statistical results. We analyzed and assessed existing design and management strategies. Through this systematic study, we discovered the need obtain o po experimental evidence on effective dog park design and management to enhance their benefits while mitigating their sources of conflict and limitations in the intensity of park visitors' physical activity in off-leash areas. Guidelines for the design and management strategies for effective dog parks were made to enhance their benefits while alleviating conflicts in the future development of sustainable dog parks that promote healthy relationships between canines and residents in urban built environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite anecdotal and empirical evidence that pets are beneficial for mental health, little is understood about these relationships in adolescents. This study examined the moderating effect of family dog ownership and perceived dog support on the relationship between social victimization and mental health complaints in adolescents. Adolescents (n = 246; 106 boys, 140 girls) and their parents completed measures of peer victimization and mental health complaints. Additionally, adolescents provided information about the number and type of pets in the home. A total of 131 lived with a dog; 105 chose a dog as their favorite pet. Adolescents who lived with a pet completed a measure of perceived support from their favorite animal. Living with a family dog moderated the influences of social victimization on mental health problems, especially internalizing problems, such that the relationship between victimization and mental health problems was weaker for those living with a dog. Perceived dog support further moderated the relationship between victimization and total problems, anxious/depression, thought problems, attention problems, and aggressive behavior, such that the magnitude of the relationship between victimization and these variables was weaker when more dog support was perceived. Results suggest that perceived support can be derived from a family pet and may buffer against the negative influence of peer victimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human alveolar echinococcosis is caused by the parasite Echinococcus multilocularis, and dog ownership has been identified as a risk factor. We sought to specify the factors of dog ownership underlying this risk by conducting a case-control study among dog owners in Germany. The analysis revealed an increased odds ratio of ≈7-fold for dog owners whose dogs roam unattended in fields, 13-fold for dog owners who feed their dogs organic waste daily, 4-fold for dog owners who take their dog to a veterinarian only in case of illness, and 10-fold for dog owners who have never been informed by a veterinarian about the risk for infection. The results highlight the risk for infection associated with various factors of dog ownership and the value of veterinarians informing owners about prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In this research, we conducted a study with an overall sample of 401 individuals to test a mediating model between telework, positive affect, and self-reported job performance. Additionally, we analyzed whether dogs' physical closeness and emotional attachment would moderate this mediating path. The results showed that telework was significantly and positively related to positive affect, which in turn, increased self-reported job performance. Moreover, the mediation model was moderated by the dog's physical closeness while working and emotional attachment to them, in such a way that the relationship between telework on self-reported job performance, via positive affect was strengthened when the owner's physical and emotional closeness to their dogs was higher. In sum, telework might be an efficient strategy to improve performance among employees who have dogs at home, because working with them nearby, when emotionally attached to them, are factors that enhance the individual's self-perceived performance in telework. Although there is evidence that pets may help individuals facing significant daily stressors, and that they may enhance the well-being of their owners, little is known about the benefits of pets for job performance. Since the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, teleworking was a strategy implemented in many countries to reduce the virus widespread and to assure organizational productivity. Those who work from home and who own pets may work close to them. Based on the conservation of resources theory, this study aimed to analyze whether positive affect mediated the relationship between telecommuting and self-reported job performance and if psychological and physical closeness to the pet would moderate this relationship in such a way that it would be stronger for those who worked closer to their pet, and who were more emotionally attached to them. For this study, we collected data from 81 teleworkers who did not own pets, and from 320 teleworkers who owned pets. Both answered an online questionnaire. Findings: Results from the study showed the existence of significant differences between those who owned and who did not own pets regarding positive affect and performance, in which those who owned pets reported higher levels of positive affect and self-reported performance and perceived telework more positively. Moreover, positive affect mediated the relationship between telework and self-reported job performance. Furthermore, emotional and physical closeness moderated the mediating effect. This study contributes to a better understanding of the human-animal interaction and how pets can be a personal resource able to change their owners' affective experiences and job performance while they are working from home. The findings demonstrate that telework may be a suitable organizational strategy for pet-owners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction: dog-mediated rabies kills about 59,000 people annually. Minimising the incidence and fatality associated with rabies disease requires adequate knowledge of dog ecology. Dog rabies vaccination which has proven to be the most effective preventive measures needs to be evaluated while prediction of dog location will be important in planning for intervention. Developing a logical framework for prevention of avoidable human deaths due to dog mediated rabies therefore require adequate information on these factors. This study was carried out to determined demographic characteristics, rabies vaccination coverage and predictor of dog ownership in Osun State. Methods: we conducted a cross-sectional study of households using WHO/WSPA adapted questionnaire. The questionnaire was administered to one person, not younger than 18 years old, per household, asking questions on household characteristics and dog information. Multi-stage sampling technique was used, and data was collected using electronic collection tool. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariate analyses at 5% significant level to determine predictors of dog ownership in Osun State. Results: total of 320 households sampled, dog-human ratios were 1: 10.7 for owned dogs, overall dog-household ratio was 1: 1.7 with urban area having 1: 1.0 ratio. Female dogs were marginally higher (53.8%) than males and comprised mainly 77.5% local breeds compared to foreign or crossbreeds. Overall rabies coverage was 30.2%, with urban and rural households having 53.2% and 11.1% rabies vaccination coverage. Predictors of dog ownership were the presence of a child in the household (AOR: 8.7; CI 2.2-34.0), the head of household being a hunter (AOR: 4.5; CI 1.4 - 14.6) and living in an urban setting (AOR: 3.5; CI 1.6-7.7). Conclusion: dog population in Osun State was relatively small and rabies vaccination coverage was very poor compared to the recommended safe coverage of 70%. Presence of a child in a household, head of house being a hunter and living in an urban area were predictors of dog ownership in Osun State. We recommended development of comprehensive plan for improved rabies coverage, targeting hunters' association and school communities by the concerned authorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical inactivity in childhood is a major public health issue. Dog ownership has been widely reported to lead to greater physical activity in adults and school-aged children. We examined if dog ownership and dog-facilitated physical activity were associated with higher physical activity in preschoolers. Secondary analysis of the ‘Play Spaces & Environments for Children’s Physical Activity’ (PLAYCE, 2015–2018) study involving 1366, 2–5-year-olds from 122 long day-care centres in Perth, Australia was conducted. Socio-demographics and movement behaviours (physical activity, screen time, sleep) were examined by dog ownership, dog play and dog walking. Dog-owning preschoolers did physical activity 8 times/week more but 6 min/day less park play than non-dog owners (all p

Satisfying dog-ownership has shown to have physical and psychological advantages for humans, whereas dysfunctional ownership due to canine behavioural problems leads to growing numbers of the relinquishment of dogs. This systematic review investigates 29 studies with the aims to find out (1) What are determinants of a functioning and satisfying dog-owner relationship (2) how these are different to owners' actual acquisition motivation (3) how relevant knowledge can improve future ownership. Aggregation of the included studies showed that individual personality and attachment aspects, as well as certain combinations of those, can impact ownership in negative or positive ways. Owners with the tendency to be highly attached and with an avoidant attachment style might represent a risk factor for a dysfunctional dyad. Compatible matches were reached via similar expressions on the traits warmth; sharing possessions and enjoyment of running outside. Furthermore, owners were compatible with dogs that possess higher expressions than themselves on the traits openness; agreeableness and neuroticism. While many studies have reported that cuteness and general appearance are among the most important purchase motives of owners, this review suggests that future owners should focus more on personality and attachment aspects in the acquisition process instead. Compatibility between owners and their dogs may help unfold advantages of dog ownership, and prevent canine behavioural problems and their adverse consequences. • Personality matching has a promising potential to achieve functional dog-ownership. • Avoidant attached owners represent a risk factor for dysfunctional ownership. • Cuteness and appearance represent common acquisition motives. • Acquisition choices should be based on personality and attachment compatibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have investigated the relationship between pet ownership and mental health in various populations, but few have targeted women around childbirth when they have heightened vulnerability to mental disorders. This study therefore examined this association in women around childbirth. Data were obtained from 80,814 mothers in an ongoing nationwide birth cohort study in Japan. Pet ownership status—none, dog(s) only, cat(s) only, or both—was determined during the second/third trimester of pregnancy. Mental health was assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6), with each score measured at two different time points around childbirth. Generalized linear models were used to derive adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for pet ownership, with no pet ownership as the reference. Dog ownership was associated with reduced risk of depressive symptoms at 1 month (aOR: 0.97, 95%CI: 0.95–0.98) and 6 months postpartum (aOR: 0.98, 95%CI: 0.96–0.99) and with psychological distress at 12 months postpartum (aOR: 0.96, 95%CI: 0.92–0.999). In contrast, cat ownership was associated with increased risk of depressive symptoms at 6 months postpartum (aOR: 1.04, 95% CI: 1.02–1.06) and psychological distress in the second/third trimester (aOR: 1.07, 95% CI: 1.02–1.12). Ownership of both cats and dogs was associated with increased risk of psychological distress in the second/third trimester (aOR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.03–1.21) but was largely similar to that of the reference group. Dog ownership was a protective factor for maternal mental health problems, whereas cat ownership was a risk factor. These findings suggest that the type of pet owned, cat or dog, plays a differential role in maintaining mothers' mental health in the perinatal and postpartum periods. • This study examined the association of pet ownership with maternal mental health. • Exposure was dog ownership, cat ownership, or both during pregnancy. • Outcomes were postpartum depressive symptoms & psychological distress up to 1 year. • Dog ownership was associated with reduced risk of mental health problems. • Cat ownership was associated with increased risk of mental health problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Place attachment knowledge informs urban green space management to maximize positive visitor experiences. However, little is known about how place attachment differs between urban green space settings and users, particularly dog walkers or owners. This study explored place attachment and the better-known influence of variables such as motivation, satisfaction and visit frequency, as well as the understudied contributions of dog-ownership status and degree of setting development. In total, 450 on-site walkers and dog walkers in two cities and four green spaces with different levels of development were interviewed. Regression analyses revealed motivations, satisfaction and visit frequency predicted place attachment. Place attachment strength differed between walkers and dog walkers: dog walkers were more likely to have higher place identity and place dependence. Similarly, visitors to the urban green spaces with the lowest degree of development were highest on place dependence and identity. Implications and future research ideas are shared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]