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Principal Investigator: Dr. Janet Scarlett
Contact Information: E-mail: jms15@cornell.edu - Phone: 607-253-3574
Sponsor: Morris Animal Foundation
Grant Number: DO6CA-080
Title: Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Animal Shelter Enrichment Protocols for Dogs
Annual Direct Cost: $47,318
Project Period: 09/01/06-08/31/08
DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): An estimated 4 million dogs enter animal shelters in the U.S. annually. Many adoption guarantee (i.e., no-kill) and open-admission shelters are keeping dogs in residence for longer periods of time. In an effort to prevent the development of behavioral problems and enhance the welfare of dogs in their care, shelters are adopting various enrichment strategies. This study is designed to evaluate the benefits for dogs of various enrichment approaches on reducing stress, enhancing adoptability, shortening shelter residence and improving behavior and retention in homes following adoption. These enrichment approaches include daily walking, offering food-filled toys, providing focused human contact and obedience training. Understanding the relative effectiveness of various enrichment strategies is essential to providing optimum care for dogs in shelters, minimizing behavior problems that may lead to failed adoptions, and utilizing shelter resources wisely.
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