Shelter life can be a highly stressful experience for dogs, who are social animals with strong needs for human bonding and stable environments. Veterinary check-ups, while necessary, can further challenge their emotional resilience. This study explored how shelter dogs physiologically and behaviorally respond during routine health checks.
Gazzano et al. (2025) examined 26 shelter dogs that had been housed from 1 month up to 9 years (median 12 months). Researchers measured heart rate, body temperature, and hormone levels, including cortisol, oxytocin, serotonin, tryptophan, and interleukin-6, alongside detailed behavioral observations during veterinary exams.
The results showed that oxytocin, the “bonding hormone,” was associated with lower cortisol levels and reduced increases in body temperature, indicating a potential protective role in stressful situations. However, other substances measured, such as serotonin and tryptophan, did not display consistent links with stress-related behavior.
Crucially, the study found that behavioral signs—such as posture, vocalization, and interaction with handlers—were more reliable indicators of stress than physiological markers alone. This highlights the importance of paying close attention to dogs’ behavior during medical procedures, especially for those living in shelters.
The authors conclude that gentle handling and fostering feelings of safety can help mitigate stress in shelter dogs, and that observing behavioral cues may be the most effective way to assess and respond to canine well-being in these contexts.
Source: Gazzano, V., Curadi, M. C., Baragli, P., Mariti, C., Cecchi, F., Cavallo, S., Sacchettino, L., & Gazzano, A. (2025). Physiological and Behavioral Evaluation of Shelter Dogs During Veterinary Routine Health Checks. Veterinary Sciences, 12. Published June 1, 2025.
