Multidimensional quality of life and human–animal bond measures for companion dogs

Abstract

Assessment of dog health is based, at least initially, on observations made by health care providers, veterinarians and veterinary technicians, and pet owners when they provide history upon presentation of their pet. It is therefore important to understand how attachment relationships to companion dogs affect the health reports made by pet owners, and how health reports are based on multiple facets of companion dog existence. The aim of the research was to develop reliable and valid multidimensional assessments regarding the quality of life (QoL) and the human–animal bond (HAB) of companion dog. The first study obtained QoL and HAB ratings from 500 owners of companion dogs (a normative sample), and the subsequent study obtained ratings from 300 owners of companion dogs with an illness that required medical treatment and/or a special/prescription diet. Study 1 revealed that HAB did not influence general health ratings above and beyond those predicted by QoL. However, Study 2 revealed that, along with QoL, aspects of the HAB predicted health evaluations of ill companion dogs. In both studies psychological aspects of QoL predicted companion dog health ratings. We also found that the surveys differentiated between the normative and ill companion dog samples. This research demonstrates the importance of assessing multiple components of QoL and HAB, and their relatedness to owners' health evaluations. Future research should ascertain questionnaire validity against more objective reports, such as veterinarian ratings. Ultimately, by understanding the relation of QoL and HAB to companion owners' evaluations of dog health, we can help veterinarians to partner with owners in providing better companion dog care.