Researchers from Mars Petcare developed a quality of life (QoL) assessment that evaluates dog health and well-being.

“Well-being is a focal point for dog owners and veterinary professionals alike,” said Nefertiti Greene, President, Science & Diagnostics, Mars Petcare in  a press release. “This assessment will allow us to consistently capture dog health and well-being data…advancing our purpose: A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS.”

The assessment is based on a 32-item questionnaire for pet owners to report on their dog’s behaviours and activity. When processed, survey results provide a multi-faceted view of a dog’s health and well-being, covering domains such as energy levels, happiness, mobility, sociability, and appetite.

A new study published in Scientific Reports supports the validity of this QoL assessment for measuring and quantifying canine health and wellbeing.

Results from the study also suggest this assessment can identify general malaise that could otherwise have been undetected when a dog is suffering from underlying pain that may not be easily identifiable.

“From a veterinarian’s perspective, the QoL assessment will deliver valuable information on how veterinary care can help improve pet outcomes,” said Jennifer Welser, DVM, DACVO, Chief Medical Officer, Mars Veterinary Health.

Researchers from Mars Petcare, including Waltham Petcare Science Institute and Banfield Pet Hospital®, developed the quality of life (QoL) assessment. For more information on the assessment and the study visit https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-16315-y.

SOURCE Mars Petcare

Featured artwork by Barbara Bullington