SUMMARY: Researchers will develop an infographic to educate owners on signs of aging in dogs as a step toward improving care and well-being of elderly pets.
THE PROBLEM: In the United States, half of pet dogs are seniors. Like humans, dogs experience changes as they age. These changes, such as chronic pain and loss of vision or hearing, can negatively affect their well-being and strain their relationship with their owners. While many treatments exist to help aging dogs, owners often lack knowledge about the signs of aging. As a result, many older dogs miss out on medical treatments or interventions that could improve their daily lives. Lack of owner knowledge about the signs of aging is a significant barrier to caring for older dogs.
THE PROJECT: The research team will develop and evaluate infographics to educate owners on signs of aging. An expert panel will create infographics on age-related pain, sensory loss, and cognitive decline. Dog owners will complete questionnaires regarding their knowledge of these conditions and their behavioral manifestations before and after viewing the infographics. They will also provide feedback on the infographics' usefulness. Knowledge changes and owner impressions will indicate the infographics' utility.
POTENTIAL IMPACT: The team hopes these infographics will help owners recognize signs of aging in their dogs and seek veterinary advice. The infographics could be distributed in printed format in veterinary practices (posters, pamphlets) and/or shared online.
Projected End Date: 2/28/2026
Study ID
D25CA-806
Study Status
Active
Grant amount awarded
$19,984
Grant recipient
University of Ottawa
Study country
United States
Investigator
Isabelle Boutet, PhD