Evaluation of effects of olfactory and auditory stimulation on separation anxiety by salivary cortisol measurement in dogs

3^rd International Veterinary Congress

August 18-20, 2016 London, UK

Shin Yoon-Joo

Seoul National University, South Korea

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Vet Sci Technol

Abstract :

Separation anxiety (SA) is a serious behavioral problem in dogs. Salivary cortisol was studied to determine whether the owner�s odor or voice can reduce stress in dogs becoming anxious separated from owners. Twenty eight dogs with SA were divided into three groups: Group 1 (control), Group 2 (with owner�s clothes during separation period, SP) and Group 3 (a recording of the owner�s voice was played during SP). The dog�s saliva was collected after the owner and their dog were in the experimental room for 5 min (PRE). Then, the dog was separated from owner for 20 min while saliva was collected four times at intervals of 5 min (SP1-4). Finally, the owner was allowed back into the room to calm the dog for 5 min, after which saliva was collected (POST). Salivary cortisol concentration was obtained by ELISA and the results were statistically analyzed. The ratios of SP1 concentration to PRE or POST concentrations were significantly higher in group 1 compared to those in group 2 or 3. The differences in concentrations between SP1 and PRE, or POST among groups, there were significant differences. The owner�s odor or voice may be helpful in managing stress in dogs with SA.

Biography :

Shin Yoon-Joo is currently a PhD student from Seoul National University. She has researched some problematic behaviors of companion dogs and she is especially interested in separation anxiety and behaviors related to low sociability.

Email: nsshin@snu.ac.kr