Creation and Validation of a Tool for Evaluating Caregiver Burnout Syndrome in Owners of Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) Diagnosed with Behavior Disorders

Abstract

Currently, domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are the most common species among companion animals. The close bond that can grow between owners and their dogs could be worn out and finally broken due to various causes. One main cause is canine behavioral problems, leading to dogs being abandoned or euthanized due to the costs faced by the owner when caring for the animal. Tools have been developed to evaluate the mental and emotional cost of caring for humans, but there is currently no validated tool for evaluating this particular problem. The objective of this study was to develop a questionnaire to evaluate caregiver burnout syndrome for owners of dogs with behavioral disorders. The methodology used consisted of drafting the tool, peer validation using the Delphi methodology and internal validation via Cronbach’s alpha. Non-linear snowball sampling was used (n = 156 participants). A questionnaire with 35 questions was obtained which referred to various aspects of caregivers’ lives. Regarding the description of the sample used, 50% had Low Burnout, 41% had Medium-Low Burnout and 9% had Medium-High Burnout. Furthermore, regarding the internal validation of the questionnaire, the general Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was α = 0.9468. We can thus conclude that the questionnaire is valid for measuring caregiver burnout syndrome in owners of dogs with behavioral disorders.

Development and validation of the puppy blues scale measuring temporary affective disturbance resembling baby blues

“…In addition, the identified aspects of puppy blues share several commonalities with the caregiver burden reported in studies involving owners of pets with unwanted behavior and illnesses. The frustration factor in puppy blues aligns with the emotions reported by owners of pets with unwanted behavior experiencing frustration, anger 19 , irritability and discomfort with the presence or behavior of the dog 20 . Feelings of frustration are also reported among owners of ill dogs 7 .…”

“…Feelings of frustration are also reported among owners of ill dogs 7 . The Anxiety factor also resonates with burden related to dog's unwanted behavior, as these owners report feelings of guilt, embarrassment 19 , fear for the dog's health or future and guilt for not doing enough 20 . This resemblance extends to owners of ill dogs, who similarly express feelings of guilt and worries about the future 6,7 .…”

“…Studies on mental health have shown that parents of children with psychiatric disorders often experience adverse psychological effects 17,18 . Similarly, caring for a dog with unwanted behavior can be taxing for the owner 19,20 . Following this line of reasoning, there may be other analogous phenomena in the human-canine bond yet to be uncovered, such as the potential similarities between puppy blues and postpartum affective disturbance, encompassing the milder form known as baby blues and the more severe form known as PPD.…”

Family Quality of Life: pet owners and veterinarians working together to reach the best outcomes

“…In addition to a pet's medical condition, owners may factor in the pet's behavior when considering diagnostic or treatment options and evaluating the pet's QoL and FQoL. 24 One aspect of the pet's behavior that may directly impact treatment decisions is the ease with which the pet can be medicated. Does the pet take oral medication easily?…”

A Qualitative Exploration of Young Canadians’ Experiences of Undesired Dog Behaviours

“…Undesired dog behaviours often involve canine behavioural issues such as aggression and destructiveness that may negatively impact young people's satisfaction towards their dog by creating more stress and negative Pets 2024, 1 feelings in daily interaction. Such situations may be perceived as a burden, which can have a negative impact on the relationship shared with the dog [2][3][4].…”