Effects of environmental enrichment on the behavior and concentrations of cortisol in dogs used in animal research

Rampim, Letícia VinhasWagatsuma, Juliana TessáliaOliva, Valéria Nobre Leal de Souza

Environmental enrichment consists of techniques used in the modification of the physical or social environment of wild captivity animals but isn't extensively used for domestic animals. The lack of challenges in an animal's domestic life tends to create behavioral disorders. This research's objective is to evaluate the welfare of research dogs through environmental enrichment techniques, evaluating behavior and the concentration of serum cortisol. It was possible to observe a decrease in behaviors such as anxiety and vocalization and in cortisol concentrations. Environmental enrichment has shown a technique able to promote the welfare of research dogs.(AU)

1. Laboratories
2. Welfare
3. Ethology