Ethical Sourcing of Dogs and Public Perception
Welfare of Dogs in Commercial Breeding Kennels
Related Studies
Ethical, Sustainable Sourcing and Supply of Dogs
The high demand for dogs, in part driven by the human-dog bond, requires deliberation and collaboration to ensure that there are enough dogs available for those who want them and that dogs’ welfare needs and interests are appropriately considered and met regardless of their source. The goals of this project are to build capacity in education, outreach, discovery, and application of knowledge related to canine welfare and other ethical issues associated with dog breeding, sourcing, and supply.
We aim to achieve these goals through facilitating moral deliberation and action in thought leaders with relevant experience and expertise to help prioritize and promote innovation and demonstrable progress in advancing the welfare of dogs as a key component of ethical, sustainable dog sourcing and supply. We also aim to advance stakeholder knowledge about breeding dog welfare and sustainable sourcing of dogs through research and outreach collaborations that translate to real-world impacts. Additionally, we aim to facilitate public understanding and informed decision-making about ethical sourcing of dogs and what is needed to support their welfare and the human-dog bond.
Project Leaders: Candace Croney (PI), Judi Stella, Mikel Delgado, and Traci Shreyer
Funding Source: Life of Riley at Spring Point
Transformative Education, Engagement and Community-Building Plan
A major limiting factor in creating positive change in dog welfare in commercial breeding kennels is breeder access to high quality, evidence-based information and educational venues on the topic of canine welfare science. There is currently an unmet need for accessible resources on canine welfare and related tailoring of kennel management for breeders as well as for shelters and rescues.
The aim of this project is to develop, deliver and evaluate a comprehensive outreach education plan translating the new research-based knowledge we create to dog breeders, animal health and pet industry professionals, kennel managers and other interested parties via multiple media.
Project Leaders: Candace Croney (PI), Traci Shreyer, Taylor Rezvani
Funding Source: Life of Riley at Spring Point
Related Products/Publications:
- Canine Welfare Science Forum 2022
- Canine Welfare Science Website - https://caninewelfare.centers.purdue.edu/
Public Perceptions of Dog Welfare, Acquisition and Information Sources
Project Leaders: Courtney Bir, Nicole Widmar, Candace Croney (PI)
Funding Source: World Pet Association & Pet Food Institute
Related Publications:
- Factors that impact dog selection and welfare
- Stated preferences for dog characteristics and sources of acquisition
- U.S. residents' perceptions of dogs, their welfare and related information sources
- Public perceptions of dog welfare, sourcing and breeding regulation
- Public perceptions of dog acquisition: Sources, rationales and expenditures
