Abstract
The aim of this work was to evaluate the welfare of sheltered dogs using behavioral indicators that indicate negative and positive emotional states (provoked and unprovoked behavior). The behavior of the selected animals was evaluated by direct observation of the indicators. The data collected was used for computing a life quality score (LQ). Forty-three behavioral indicators (23 negative indicators and 20 positive indicators) were identified and analyzed in 20 dogs housed for more than two years in the shelter. Six negative indicators (tail chasing, circling, escape attempt, chewing bars, coprophagy and lifting a front leg) were not identified in any of the 20 evaluated dogs. An average LQ score of 0.115 was obtained, with values between -0.35 and 0.4. The results showed that 55% of the assessed dogs had higher LQ scores than the mean value. Canine behavior can be assessed within a reasonable amount of time by recording the presence or absence of certain behavioral indicators. These recordings can then be processed to obtain a quality of life score for each animal.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
