| Abstract | Several studies have shown the positive behavioral and physiological effects of music on dogs in kennels and other acutely stressful situations, but there is little research on whether similar effects can come from playing music for chronically stressed dogs. This study attempted to prime this area by taking a case study approach on music's effects on dogs with cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) (which is shown to cause anxiety and is an uncurable and long-term condition). Additionally, this study attempted to introduce music therapy ideas to CDS treatment, since music therapy is known to assist humans through psychological stress as well as many other ailments. The case study portion of this study focused on a single geriatric dog suspected to have CDS, for which a short pre-test post-test design was used to assess how exposure to music affected them throughout the music treatment window and after cessation. This was done in situ (in the subject's house) to minimize any stressors other than CDS. While identifying potential subjects, information on another dog was received that helped demonstrate the social dynamics in the household of dogs with CDS. Ultimately, there seemed to be some reduction in repetitive behaviors due to musical enrichment (as well as social enrichment), but other behaviors seemed to worsen. Due to the low number of subjects in this study, the time constraints of working with near-end-of-life dogs, and the inability to maintain constants in an in-situ environment, this study has little statistical power in determining the efficacy of music in reducing chronic stress in dogs with CDS. However, this study was able to provide starting points for future research in: 1) chronic stress reduction in dogs through music, 2) a more encompassing music therapy-based approach to animal welfare, and 3) the social dynamics in the household of a dog with CDS. |
