Episode 17: Inside ASPCA's Animal Behavior Research

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What if understanding the intricate dance between human psychology and animal behavior could transform how we care for our pets? Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Maya Gupta and Dr. Miranda K. Workman from the ASPCA's Applied Behavior Research and Animal Welfare Team. Dr. Gupta shares her compelling journey from clinical psychology to animal welfare, sparked by a poignant encounter with domestic violence and animal cruelty. Meanwhile, Dr. Workman delves into her extensive background in sheltering and applied animal behavior, anthrozoology, and her critical research on multi-species families.
Ever wondered why some cats get adopted faster than others? Miranda's fascinating study on Petfinder reveals the subtle yet powerful factors that influence cat adoption success, such as the cat's age, gender, and even the presence of toys in photos. Our guests also shed light on innovative approaches to understanding dog-cat interactions in shelters, using mechanical cats and olfactory cues to better assess compatibility. We discuss the challenges in animal welfare research, including financial barriers and the crucial role of open access publications in democratizing knowledge.
Language shapes perceptions and, ultimately, the fate of animals. We explore the transformative power of terms like "community cats" over "feral" and how these shifts can positively impact animal welfare. Our conversation touches upon common behavioral issues in cats, such as house-soiling and shyness, and the importance of addressing these to prevent owner surrenders. You'll also hear about the promising research into cooperative care for cat grooming and the use of pharmacological aids to improve feline well-being. Don't miss the valuable insights from Dr. Gupta and Dr. Workman as they help us build a more compassionate world for our animal companions.