ABSTRACT

Previous studies have revealed cultural differences in perceptions of assistance dogs, but this has not been investigated in almost 20 years. This study aimed to develop an understanding of the Australian public’s perceptions toward both assistance and companion dogs. A questionnaire was completed by 258 Australians asking about their interest in, attitudes towards, and perceived happiness of the two types of dogs. Results revealed participants were equally interested in them, but More supportive of the use of assistance dogs, and perceived them as happier. Qualitative analyses revealed participants commonly endorsed the practical benefits of assistance dogs and the emotional benefits of companion dogs. Differences in happiness ratings can potentially be explained by the common endorsement that companion dogs are sometimes neglected while assistance dogs enjoy working and constant companionship with their handler. However, several participants expressed concern regarding the restrictive nature of the assistance work. There was an increase in concerns raised for the welfare of both dogs as compared to previous studies, suggesting a rise in concern about dog welfare and the ethics of keeping dogs for human benefits.

摘要

以前的研究已经揭示了对辅助犬的看法存在文化差异，但近 20 年来一直没有对此进行调查。本研究旨在了解澳大利亚公众对辅助犬和伴侣犬的看法。一份问卷由 258 名澳大利亚人完成，询问他们对这两种狗的兴趣、态度和感知幸福感。结果显示参与者对它们同样感兴趣，但更支持使用辅助犬，并认为它们更快乐。定性分析显示，参与者普遍认可辅助犬的实际益处和伴侣犬的情感益处。幸福等级的差异可能是因为人们普遍认为伴侣犬有时会被忽视，而辅助犬则喜欢工作并与他们的训练者保持持续的陪伴。然而，一些与会者对援助工作的限制性表示担忧。与之前的研究相比，对两只狗的福利的担忧有所增加，这表明人们对狗的福利和养狗以造福人类的伦理问题的关注有所增加。