Slower, shorter, sadder: A qualitative study exploring how dog walks change when the canine participant develops osteoarthritis

Abstract

Background: Dog walking may have multiple physical and mental health advantages, but not all dog owners appear to benefit. Dog health is a described barrier to dog walking activity, but specific causes and impacts of reduced exercise in owners of dogs with health problems have not previously been reported. The current study used a qualitative methodology to explore the impact of canine osteoarthritis on dog walking activity. Methods: Owners of dogs with osteoarthritis living in the United Kingdom (UK) were recruited through veterinary practices for semi-structured interview about life with an osteoarthritic dog. Participants were asked to reflect on walks that they had taken with their dog before he/she developed osteoarthritis, and to describe how those walks had changed. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematic analysis was used to construct key themes. Results: Forty owners of 35 osteoarthritic dogs were interviewed. Prior to their dog’s development of osteoarthritis, dog walking distance, speed and location were usually decided by the owner to satisfy the needs and enjoyment of dog and walker. A diagnosis of canine osteoarthritis led to both dogs and their owners altering the walks undertaken. Walks were typically slower, shorter and limited to locations where physical infrastructure, underfoot surface and gradients were perceived by the owner to be navigable by their dog. Most owners did not go on additional walks without their dog due to feelings of guilt and because walking without a dog was less enjoyable. Many owners described negative effects on their own physical health and diminished enjoyment of walking as a result of their dog’s condition. Conclusion: Our research suggests that osteoarthritic dogs may reduce the walking exercise their owners are able or willing to undertake. Since osteoarthritis is a common condition in older dogs, this is an important finding for those advocating dog ownership as a positive public health intervention. Strategies may be needed to ensure that owners of dogs that develop physical incapacities can continue to enjoy the health benefits they previously associated with dog walking. Future studies investigating dog walking activity should ensure that the health status of the dog has been considered.

Come for the looks, stay for the personality? A mixed methods investigation of reacquisition and owner recommendation of Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Pugs

“…Preconceptions of breed ‘laziness’ are inherently problematic. If individuals truly have a reduced motivation for exercise, this may be driven by pain or disease, for example osteoarthritis [ 53 ], or reduced exercise tolerance associated with airway obstruction common in brachycephalic breeds [ 54 ], which may go unrecognised and undertreated. If dogs are motivated to exercise but owners do not recognise this and consequently under-exercise them, dogs may be at risk of becoming overweight or obese [ 55 ], a commonly recognised problem in brachycephalic breeds such as the Pug [ 56 ].…”

Lead pulling as a welfare concern in pet dogs: What can veterinary professionals learn from current research?

“…Breed, size, age, 16 health and walking capacity 17 are important walking incentives and disincentives for owners, but the strength of attachment owners feel towards their dogs is key 13,14,18–20 . Owners report wanting to meet their dog's exercise needs and that provision and participation in an activity their dog enjoys provides motivation 13,14 .…”

“…13,14,[18][19][20] Owners report wanting to meet their dog's exercise needs and that provision and participation in an activity their dog enjoys provides motivation. 13,14 However, owners of older, overweight or arthritic dogs may still be strongly attached but find daily walks challenging, 17 and undesirable behaviour may affect the quality, frequency and duration of walks owners can provide. Research has focused on positive outcomes of dog walking for humans 13,14,16,20 ; negative outcomes of dog walking are less clear.…”

“We have a ticking time bomb”: A qualitative exploration of the impact of canine epilepsy on dog owners living in England

“…Previous studies of other chronic canine disorders e.g. osteoarthritis (24,25) and behavioural problems (26) have bene ted from such an approach.…”