Dog Walking before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown: Experiences of UK Dog Owners.

ABSTRACT: This study investigated the impacts of the first COVID-19 UK lockdown on dog walking and ownership. An online survey was circulated via social media (May-June 2020). Completed responses (n = 584) were analysed using within- and between-group comparisons, and multivariable linear and logistic regression models were created. Open-ended data were coded into key themes. During lockdown, dogs were walked less frequently, yet for a similar duration per week and closer to home. Dogs whose owners lived alone, or whose owners or household members had heightened vulnerability to COVID-19 were walked less than before, as were high-energy dogs. A minority of owners continued dog walking despite exhibiting symptoms or needing to self-isolate, justifying lack of help, dog behavioural problems, living in

SUBMITTER: Owczarczak-Garstecka SC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8296116 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature