bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Early Stage Animal Hoarders: Are These Owners of Large Numbers of Adequately Cared for Cats?
Authors: Ramos D. , da Cruz N.O. , Ellis S.L.H. , Hernandez J.A.E. , Reche-Junior A 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Animal hoarding is a spectrum-based condition in which hoarders are often reported to have had normal and appropriate pet-keeping habits in childhood and early adulthood. Historically, research has focused largely on well-established clinical animal hoarders with little work targeted towards the onset and development of animal hoarding. This study investigated whether a Brazilian population of owners of what might typically be considered an excessive number (20 or more) of cats were more likely to share the commonly reported psychological and demographic profile of animal hoarders than owners of 1-2 cats drawn from the same population. Psychological traits measured were attachment to pets (Lexington Pet Attachment Scale, LAPS), anxiety and depression (Hospitalized Anxiety and Depression Scale, HADS), and hoarding behavior (Saving Inventory-Revised, SI-R). Owners of 20 or more cats were significantly older, scored significantly higher pet attachment scores, and displayed significant positive relationships between hoarding behavior and anxiety. Such a profile demonstrates greater similarities to clinical animal hoarders than to typical cat owners on these particular measures, although additional disparities with clinical animal hoarders exist in the areas of functioning, veterinary care and home organization. Taking this information together, the studied population may represent the understudied group of early stage animal hoarders. However, external factors such as culture and societal animal control policies should not be overlooked as alternative explanations for pet keeping at levels that might be considered excessive.
Children’s Preferences for Infantile Features in Dogs and Cats
Authors: Borgi Marta , Cirulli Francesca 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
A number of authors suggest that children exhibit a natural interest towards animals, and different intervention programs have shown the presence of an animal being able to increase children’s attentiveness and motivation levels. Nonetheless, few research efforts have been devoted to the identification of specific animal characteristics able to attract and engage children. It has been hypothesized that the presence of infantile features in the most common pets (and their appeal for humans) is involved in our motivational drive to pet-keeping and pet-caretaking. This study was aimed at assessing children’s preference for faces of pets with presence (or absence) of infant features and the generalization of this response to an inanimate object, a teddy bear. Children (n = 272) aged 3 to 6 years participated in the study and were tested on a forced-choice task, using paired photographic stimuli. Children’s preferences for different species (dogs and cats) and for animal over non–animal stimuli were also obtained and the effects of sex, age, and pet ownership analyzed. Overall, children showed a preference for more infantile cats, but no differences were found when they were asked to choose between dog faces. Moreover, children showed a preference for animal over non-animal stimuli and for dogs over cats. Factors such as sex, age, and familiarity with animals (i.e. ownership) were able to modulate their responses. Results and their implications for the child-animal bond are discussed.
Randomized Trial Examines Effects of Equine Facilitated Learning on Adolescents’ Basal Cortisol Levels
Authors: Pendry Patricia , Smith Annelise N. , Roeter Stephanie M. 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Although equine facilitated programs have gained in popularity over the last decade, virtually nothing is known about the causal effects of equine facilitated interventions on human development and well-being. Researchers conducted a randomized trial to determine the effects of an 11-week equine facilitated learning program on the activity of the Hypothalamic Pituitary Adrenal (HPA) axis of fifth through eighth graders through salivary cortisol levels. Children (N = 131) referred by school counselors and recruited from the community were randomly assigned to either an experimental (N = 53) or waitlisted condition (N = 60). Six samples of salivary cortisol were collected in participants’ own home over two consecutive days at pretest, and another set of six samples were collected at posttest in both groups of children. Children in the experimental group who participated in a series of once-weekly, 90-minute sessions of equine facilitated activities had lower afternoon cortisol levels (F(1, 112) = 8.56,
p
= .017;
d
= .48) and lower total cortisol concentration per waking hour (F(1, 112) = 11.12,
p
= .017,
d
= .46) at posttest, compared to waitlisted children. Multivariate regression analyses showed that program effects were independent from baseline levels of child cortisol, child gender, age, and referral status.
“Dog Moms” Use Authoritative Parenting Styles
Authors: Volsche Shelly , Gray Peter 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

The purpose of the present research was to determine what type of relationship exists between owner to dog attachment and the degree of aversion used in training pet dogs. We hypothesized that attachment to one’s dog would be negatively associated with the degree of aversion used in dog training. Data collection took place via online, self-report surveys. The sample consisted of 653 respondents, age 19-82 (µ=46.83, M=49) representing each of the 50 United States. Of that population, 90.8% were female and 88.7% identified as white. Additionally, 79.3% did not have children in the home with all but two of those being childless, and more than half of the population (65.5%) considered themselves their dog’s “parent” or “guardian.” Contrary to expectations, a weak positive correlation (
r
=.224,
p
<.001) was found between participants’ attachment and the reported frequency of aversion used in training their dogs. This paper discusses the interpretations of these findings, including with respect to changing human-dog relationships in the United States.
Dog-Owner Compatibility Index of Activity Preferences
Authors: González-Ramírez Mónica Teresa , Landero-Hernández René , Vanegas-Farfano Minerva 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Findings in human-animal interaction often includes the benefits of the relationship; however, pet relinquishment persists as a core issue within the field. Considering mismatches could be an explanation about relinquishment, this study was performed with the aim to design and to evaluate psychometric properties of the dog-owner compatibility index of activity preferences, in its Spanish and English versions. This is a measurement of dog-owner compatibility through shared behaviors. Surveys of 627 pet dog owners in Mexico and 61 pet dog owners in the United States were utilized. The results demonstrated strong psychometric properties in Spanish version. Factor analysis suggests a two-factor structure; evidence of convergent validity was obtained comparing index scores with Mexican version of Monash dog owner relationship scale and internal consistency with a Cronbach’s alpha that showed a coefficient of .82 to complete index. Results also showed evidence of reliability in English version with a Cronbach’s alpha of .83. Due to its shortness and simple scoring, the index could be used by researchers, rescue associations, and adoptions centers.
Animal-Assisted Therapy in the Treatment of Substance Use Disorders: A Systematic Mixed Methods Review
Authors: Klemetsen Marie Gading , Lindstrøm Torill Christine 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
There is a need for evidence-based interventions that can contribute to more positive treatment outcomes for substance use disorders. Animal-assisted therapy is a supplementary intervention in which certified animals are used in a structured and goal directed manner in the treatment of various health problems. This review aims to systematically investigate and evaluate the available literature and thus hopefully contribute to future research. The electronic searches were performed in the databases PsycInfo, Medline, and Web of Science. Searches of reference lists were also performed. As the research on this particular field is scarce, the inclusion criteria had to allow for a relatively great variation in methods, interventions, and populations. Still, only ten studies were included, of which three were quantitative, six were qualitative, and one was a mixed methods study. All of the included articles examined the effect of AAT in the treatment of substance use disorders. The populations investigated included both women and men aged 13 to 55 years undergoing treatment for substance use disorder. A segregated design was applied, where the quantitative results were pooled using narrative synthesis and the qualitative using metasummary, all of which were combined in a final configuration. Three of the quantitative studies found significant correlations, and the metasummary indicated several reoccurring themes across the qualitative studies. However, a general lack of systematic investigation and an excess of explorative research were identified, and the majority of the articles neglected to report information important for replication. More thorough and systematic investigations are needed. A tentative explanatory model, with a hypothesis generating aim, is presented, in which the qualitative findings function as moderators or mediators of the relationships indicated by the quantitative studies.
The effects of dog-owner relationship on perceived stress and happiness
Authors: González-Ramírez Mónica Teresa , Landero-Hernández René , Vanegas-Farfano Minerva 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of the pet-owner relationship on the perceived stress and subjective happiness of the owner, using structural equation modeling. A sample of 483 residents of Mexico, men and women, owners of at least one dog participated in this study. Data collection included The Monash Dog Owner Relationship Scale, the Perceived Stress Scale, the Subjective Happiness Scale and some questions regarding the daily dog-owner interaction. Within its primary results, this study showed a higher level of interaction in dyads and adequate relationships according to owners’ perception. The structural model revealed the owner-dog interaction as a predictor of the owner’s perception of their relationship; stressors and the dog-owner relationship as predictors of the owner’s perceived stress, and stress on subjective happiness. It is concluded that the benefits of the human-animal bond are mediated by the dog-owner relationships’ quality and this relationship is determined by their shared activities.
Animal-Assisted Interventions: Taxonomy and Best Practices
Authors: Winkle Melissa Y. , Linder Deborah E. 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Animals, particularly dogs, are gaining momentum in specialized Human-Animal Interactions. Dogs’ roles range from pets, family members, volunteer visitors, and canine colleagues, to assistance dogs. This has also resulted in a need for uniform terminology to delineate between the different jobs dogs do within HAI as many of these roles are now the subject of scientific inquiry and laws. While the international literature has demonstrated growth in these areas, the terminology can leave readers confused when it comes to dogs working in the contexts of Animal Assisted Interventions (AAIs) and Assistance Dogs (AD). This article looks towards organizations with significant national and international representation to clarify the movement toward a uniform terminology that may impact the development of standards of practice and research for a variety of disciplines using AAIs and clarify laws for AD.
Prevalence of Coursework in Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies at Universities and Colleges in the United States: A Scoping Review
Authors: Fry Nina Ekholm , Meszaros Emily , O’Neill Katie 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

An increasing number of universities and colleges in the United States are offering coursework related to equine-assisted activities or therapies. We conducted a scoping review to determine the prevalence of such coursework at higher education institutions with information on geographic location, number of courses and their focus, department through which coursework was delivered, and level of study (undergraduate or graduate). We identified 39 higher education institutions in 29 states that provided coursework in the following areas: therapeutic riding/horsemanship (n = 71, 64.5%), equine-assisted mental health (n = 23, 20.9%), equine-assisted learning (n = 7, 6.4%), and hippotherapy (n = 1, 0.9%). Survey or overview courses (n
=
8, 7.3%) were also identified. A total of 110 courses that met inclusion criteria were offered in the 2016-2017 academic year, both at undergraduate (
n
= 92) and graduate levels (
n
= 17), with just over half of institutions delivering coursework through social science or liberal arts departments (n = 20, 51.3%) and the rest through animal science departments (
n =
19, 48.7%). Several challenges emerged based on the review process related to use of terminology, understanding of professional scope and the lack of educational standards for equine-assisted fields. Our suggestions for future research include examination of curriculum content and instructor qualifications to increase understanding of the role university and college coursework has in equine-assisted practice.
The State of Assessment in Human-Animal Interaction Research
Authors: Rodriguez Kerri E. , Guérin Noémie A. , Gabriels Robin L. , Serpell James A. , Schreiner Pamela J. , O’Haire Marguerite E. 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
There is a growing body of research in human-animal interaction (HAI), but the field is often criticized for its lack of methodological rigor and heterogeneous outcome assessment. In addition, there is a scarcity of valid and reliable assessment tools specific to measuring constructs directly related to HAI. As the field continues to develop, there is a critical need for the consistent use of standardized, well-validated, and appropriate assessment tools. The goal of this paper is to provide an overview of the state of assessment in HAI while identifying current needs for method standardization, development, or refinement. Specifically, we review in detail the use of (1) questionnaires, (2) physiological measures, and (3) behavior assessment tools in the field of HAI while offering examples of successful application, describing methodological limitations, and providing recommendations for use in HAI research.
The Psychological Processes Involved in the Development of a High-Quality Relation with one’s Dog
Authors: Vink Lonneke , Dijkstra Arie 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Background. Several studies have found an effect of pet ownership on human health and well-being. We propose that these benefits can only occur when the pet owner perceives the dog in a certain way: As having a human-like psychological functioning and experience of the world (anthropomorphism), and as part of one’s identity (assimilation). These perceptions are thought to support the development of a high-quality relationship with the dog that can lead to positive effects on health and well-being.
Method. Two samples of dog owners (N=136 and N=928) completed an online questionnaire assessing anthropomorphism and assimilation, and relationship satisfaction and commitment to the dog (as measures of the quality of the relationship). In addition, a set of measures to validate the new anthropomorphism and assimilation scales were assessed.
Results. Anthropomorphism and assimilation were related to satisfaction and commitment in moderation and in mediation. That is, the relation between anthropomorphism and commitment was especially strong when assimilation was low, and the relation between assimilation and commitment was largely mediated by anthropomorphism. Furthermore, validating the new scales, anthropomorphism was significantly related to secondary emotions recognized in the dog, and assimilation was significantly and negatively related to self-esteem and loneliness.
Conclusion. The results show that anthropomorphism and assimilation had a significant relation with satisfaction and commitment, which is in line with the notion that this psychological process is important for the development of a high-quality relationship between owner and dog.
Effect of Pet Interaction on Stress Reduction and Positive Mood Enhancement among Pet-Owners and Non-Owners
Authors: Khalid Aliya , Dildar Saadia 
Published: October 2022

AbstractThe present study investigated the effect of pet interaction on stress reduction and positive mood enhancement among pet-owners and non-owners. Sample of pet-owners (n = 90) and non-owners (n = 90) was taken from University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore. Both, male and female participants were included in the sample. The instruments used were Short Stress State Questionnaire (Helton, 2004), Brief Mood Introspection Scale (Mayer & Gaschke, 1988) and Pet Interaction Observation Checklist. Data was statistically analyzed by one way Analysis of Variance and Independent Sample t-test. Reduction in stress and increase in positive mood were found for both pet-owners and non-owners for the pet interaction groups as compared to control groups. However, no significant differences were found between the dog interaction group and cat interaction group for both pet owners and non-owners. Moreover, pet-owners had lower scores on stress and higher scores on positive mood after pet interaction as compared to non-owners. Lastly, it was shown that individuals who interacted with pets for more than five minutes had lower scores on stress and higher scores on positive mood as compared to those who interacted for five minutes or less. The findings have implications for Animal Assisted Therapy for psychological well-being.
The Development and Pilot Evaluation of a ‘Serious Game’ to Promote Positive Child-Animal Interactions
Authors: Hawkins Roxanne D. , Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals  , Williams Joanne M. 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Animal welfare education aims to nurture compassion, respect and kindness to animals but there remains a need for more rigorous evaluations of such programmes to assess the most effective approaches. Incorporating technology into animal welfare education is a relatively novel field. This study examines the process of designing, developing, and evaluating the effectiveness of a new theoretically-driven educational computer game intervention. Pet Welfare was designed for children aged 7-12 years, to promote positive child-animal interactions. A pre-test, post-test, test-control, quasi-experimental design was used using a self-report questionnaire that children completed within class. Participants included 184 primary-school children from schools in Scotland, UK. The results indicated a positive impact on knowledge about animal welfare needs, knowledge about appropriate and safe behaviour towards pets and beliefs about pet minds. Children were also less accepting of cruelty to pets. There was no impact on self-reported compassion. This study presents the first evaluation of a digital animal welfare ‘serious game’ for children, demonstrating the benefits of incorporating technology and game-based learning into animal cruelty prevention. The results of this study will inform future education directions for those wishing to promote positive and safe relationships between children and animals.
Theoretical Development of Equine-assisted Activities and Therapies for Children with Autism: A Systematic Mapping Review
Authors: Peters B. Caitlin , Wood Wendy , Hepburn Susan 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
In this systematic mapping review, we mapped the state of theoretical development of equine-assisted activities and therapies for children with autism to help illuminate promising theoretical frameworks. Across 42 studies and 22 non-research reports, we identified 10 explanatory formal theories related to equine-assisted activities and therapies, and several informally hypothesized change mechanisms. Guided by findings, we propose that (1) equine movement, intentionally used by a therapist, challenges and improves postural control and motor skills, and that an equine-assisted activity or therapy can (2) promote engagement, a platform for social development, and (3) provide structured support for social interaction and positively reinforce communication. While promising, these three nascent theoretical frameworks merit further critique, testing, and refinement.
Perceptions of Animal Assisted Reading and its Results Reported by Involved Children, Parents and Teachers of a Portuguese Elementary School
Authors: Canelo Elsa 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
This article presents preliminary results of a longitudinal qualitative study of a small-sample trial of Animal Assisted Reading (AAR), designed to overcome reading difficulties of second grade children in an elementary school in Lisbon’s outskirts, through reading sessions to a “listening dog”. The AAR trial was carried out between October 2016 and June 2017. The article deals with findings concerning the participant schoolchildren’s, their parents’ and their teachers’ perceptions before and after the trial was run, framed by Bronfenbrenner’s bioecological theory of human development. I interviewed 12 subjects – five students, one parent of each of them, and two teachers – before and after the trial was run, in order to compare the children’s initial and final self-concept regarding reading to others, as well as the expectations they, their parents and teachers held and their final assessments of AAR. I did a descriptive qualitative analysis of interview transcripts to extract and compare the relevant data on these items. Initially, all students had negative self-concept regarding reading, and all but one tended to avoid the task of reading aloud to others. After AAR, all but one appreciated reading aloud without fearing exposure. The initial expectations of students, parents, and teachers about AAR were very high to begin with, and in the end all stated those expectations had been met, acknowledging further benefits besides reading improvement. The findings suggest AAR had a positive impact in both the school and the family microsystems of the children’s development.
Grounded by Purrs and Petting: Experiences with Companion Cats during COVID-19
Authors: Currin-McCulloch Jennifer , Bussolari Cori , Packman Wendy , Kogan Lori , Erdman Phyllis 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated negative impacts on the psychological well-being of humans around the world. Most communities have followed social distancing mandates, resulting in social isolation and changes to daily work and social routines. Extended periods of social isolation can lead to boredom, loneliness, and increased risk for physical and mental health concerns. For many individuals during the pandemic, their household members and cats have represented their only daily contact with living beings. Cats have been shown to form strong attachments to their owners and to reduce humans’ stress responses, yet there is a dearth of research, especially when compared to dogs. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the thoughts, experiences, and concerns of adults regarding their relationships with their companion cat during the initial months of COVID-19. Data were collected between March 30
th
and May 1
st
, 2020, via an online questionnaire. Respondents (n=956) were recruited through social media outlets and human-animal focused organizations. Directed content analysis methods informed the process for discovering themes in the data. Themes include participants’ enhanced bonds, increased quality time, gratitude, worries about their cat’s well-being, and a reduced sense of isolation and emotional distress.