Dallas Veterinarian Clinic

Canine-ality

Over 150 animal shelters are using personality tests to match owners with pets. The assessments are termed Canine-ality and Feline-ality and have been very successful. The screening service is similar to those on E-Harmony or Match.com, where the main purpose is to determine what can add value to one’s life while considering what will detract value.

The process begins with potential owners answering a list of questions regarding expectations. Characteristics such as the level of playfulness desired are chosen. In addition, the adopter-to-be will be asked about the amount of time to behavior training he is willing to commit, whether it be none, some, or a lot.

The shelter workers are responsible for assessing the pet’s characteristics. The dog will be set up in certain scenarios with a hidden camera. For instance, if the dog is alone and between a kitchen trash can and a couch, what will the dog do? This will help determine a couch potato from a very busy and curious fellow. These testing scenarios were developed by scientists who studied animals at the Kansas Humane Society. They would borrow animals from homes for 72 hours of observation and then consult with the owners to see how accurate their test results were in comparison to the animal’s normal behavior. The tests which proved most accurate were selected for the assessment. These include stressed and non-stressed situations.

The traits assigned to the pets are definitely on the positive side. Free spirit might be used to describe an active fence jumper. However, this is much welcomed when compared to the often negative terminology seen in shelters.

If you would like more information on a pet’s personality, contact Dallas veterinarian clinic today.