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Survey finds dog owners less depressed during COVID-19 pandemic
"Our work adds to a growing body of evidence demonstrating the power of the human-pet bond, especially in times of stress" - Francois Martin MA PhD.
Dog owners reported a stronger sense of social support. 

A recent survey has discovered that dog ownership may have helped to support dog owners over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Held online by Purina, the survey asked 1535 current dog owners, and potential dog owners to assess depression, anxiety, happiness, attitude and commitment toward their pet and perceived social support, using validated psychometric scales. 

The findings of the survey identified that those who owned a dog had a higher perceived level of social support.

Of the respondents, 67 per cent felt that the pandemic had an emotional impact on them, however, on average, dog owners had a lower depression score. 

Libby Sheridan MVB MRCVS, Purina scientific affairs manager form the UK and Ireland, commented: “The survey provided a unique opportunity to shed light on whether dog ownership would help to reduce or buffer the negative psychological effects of COVID-19.

“The research aimed to build on prior evidence that suggests that dogs can contribute to their owner’s positive affective state - a psychological term describing when people are in generally positive frame of mind like  excited, enthusiastic, and inspired. 

“Purina also set out to gain a better understanding of whether the power of the pet-owner bond continued to persist during the pandemic. Not only was the effect of dogs shown to be positive, it was also measurable and statistically significant.”

Lead Purina scientist on the project, Francois Martin MA PhD, said: “Our research showed that dog owners fared better from a social support and emotional standpoint during COVID than people who like dogs but didn’t own one during the pandemic. 

“Our work adds to a growing body of evidence demonstrating the power of the human pet bond, especially in times of stress.”

The full results of the survey are available to view here. 

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.