30 May 2013

U.S. study finds behavioral concerns linked to retail sales

A new study conducted by Best Friends Animal Society and the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine links abnormal behavior to dogs sold in pet stores. 

The research compares a wide array of psychological and behavioral characteristics of 413 dogs purchased from pet stores with the same characteristics of 5,657 dogs obtained from small-scale, private breeders. Results show that dogs obtained as puppies from pet stores showed significantly more aggression toward human family members, unfamiliar people and other dogs.

This study may reiterate the importance of breeder care standards like those introduced in a Private Member's bill - Standards of Care for Breeders of Companion Animals - by North Vancouver-Seymour MLA Jane Thornthwaite earlier this year. This bill outlined standards that breeders in British Columbia must meet to ensure the welfare of animals. The legislation intended to strengthen British Columbia’s reputation in animal welfare and support reputable breeders while giving animal agencies new tools to shut down irresponsible breeding operations. 


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