The study examined how chronic pain affects canine welfare using the Animal Welfare Assessment Grid (AWAG). Researchers conducted 76 AWAG assessments across 46 dogs diagnosed with musculoskeletal conditions causing chronic pain, and compared results to a cohort of 143 healthy dogs.
Analyses showed significant differences across nearly all welfare parameters: all physical factors besides body condition, and all psychological, environmental, and procedural factors were worse in dogs with chronic pain. Spearman correlations highlighted strong associations between clinical symptom severity and poorer mobility and increased frequency of fearful stimuli.
Using logistic regression, the study identified that the frequency of fears and anxieties, the dog’s reaction to stressors, engagement with enrichment, and social interactions were significant predictors of chronic pain. The authors note these behavioral shifts can manifest before physical signs such as lameness or stiffness are obvious.
The findings suggest that relying solely on visible physical symptoms may delay veterinary attention. The authors recommend regular veterinary assessments combined with AWAG-based monitoring to detect behavioral indicators early, enabling prompt treatment and an improved quality of life for affected dogs.
Source: Malkani, R., Paramasivam, S., & Wolfensohn, S., Frontiers in Veterinary Science, Published 04 April 2024. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2024.1374858
