Chronic enteropathy is a persistent gastrointestinal condition in dogs that can severely impact their quality of life (QoL). A 2021 study in the journal Veterinary Sciences evaluated how this illness affects not only physical health but also the dog–owner relationship.
The research team, led by V. Marchetti and colleagues, assessed 44 dogs with primary chronic enteropathies at their first consultation with a veterinary gastroenterologist and again at a follow-up visit. They compared the results to a control group of 49 healthy dogs and 50 dogs with cancer. The evaluation included QoL scales, the Canine Chronic Enteropathy Clinical Activity Index, the Lexington Attachment to Pet Scale, and the Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire.
Findings showed that on the first visit, dogs with chronic enteropathy had significantly lower QoL scores in all areas compared to healthy dogs and even lower general QoL than cancer patients. However, follow-up assessments revealed notable improvements in general QoL, health QoL, and interaction QoL after treatment began.
Interestingly, these dogs also displayed higher attachment scores from their owners compared to healthy dogs. At the first visit, they exhibited more separation-related behaviors and contact/attention-seeking behaviors than at follow-up, suggesting that initial illness distress can heighten dependence on the owner.
The study highlights that, as in human medicine, chronic illness in dogs affects emotional and social dynamics within the household, sometimes reinforcing the emotional bond despite a reduction in physical wellbeing.
Source: Marchetti, V., Gori, E., Mariotti, V., Gazzano, A., & Mariti, C., Veterinary Sciences, Volume 8, Published August 1, 2021. https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci8080147
