32nd Annual Student Research Conference
Public Preference for Dog Traits and the Correlation to Animal Shelter Adoption Rates
Kavanaugh G. Weiss*, Austin D. Cox, Liam D. Hazen, and Nikola Pesic
Dr. Jessica Colpoys, Faculty Mentor
The objective of this study is to determine if a relationship exists between public preference for dog traits and perceived adoptability of shelter dogs. We hypothesize that there will be a correlation between public preference of dog traits and time spent in-shelter before being adopted. Dogs were evaluated for coat color, coat length, body weight, teeth cleanliness, nail length, posture, excitability, and breed. The Truman State University student body and general public in Adair County were surveyed to evaluate trait preference. Data will be evaluated to determine if the time spent in-shelter before a dog is adopted is correlated to trait preferences derived from the survey data. The expected goals are to help animal shelters match possible adopters with dogs they most likely prefer and increase rates of adoption over time.
Keywords: Shelter Animals, Adoption Rates, Dogs
Topic(s):Agricultural Science
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 11-2
Location: SUB GEO
Time: 3:00