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Research

 

Studying the impacts and benefits of training service dogs in a university setting, such as Hearts of Gold at WVU, through scientific research is crucial for several compelling reasons:

  1. Empirical Evidence: Scientific research provides empirical evidence, allowing us to understand the tangible impacts of service dog training. This evidence is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of different training methods, identifying best practices, and refining training protocols.

  2. Improving Training Methods: By conducting scientific research, universities can explore various training techniques, behavioral interventions, and socialization strategies. Understanding what methods yield the best outcomes helps in refining training programs, leading to better-prepared service dogs.

  3. Enhancing Dog-Human Interactions: In-depth studies can delve into the complex dynamics between service dogs and humans, evaluating the emotional, physical, and psychological benefits for individuals with disabilities. This research can help optimize the bond between service dogs and their handlers, ensuring more effective support.

  4. Ethical Considerations: Research in a university setting is guided by ethical principles. This ensures that the dogs' welfare remains a priority while studying their training. It helps in developing humane training methods that prioritize the well-being of the animals involved.

  5. Advancing Knowledge: Universities serve as hubs for knowledge creation and dissemination. Research conducted in these settings contributes to the existing body of knowledge on animal behavior, cognition, and assistance training. It helps expand our understanding of how animals learn, which can have broader applications beyond service dog training.

  6. Educational Opportunities: Involving students in this research provides valuable educational experiences. It offers students hands-on opportunities to contribute to impactful research, fostering their understanding of animal behavior, training methodologies, and ethical considerations in working with animals.

  7. Public Policy and Awareness: Scientific research can influence public policy by providing evidence-based recommendations for regulations and standards in service dog training. Additionally, disseminating research findings can increase public awareness about the importance of properly trained service dogs and the rights of individuals with disabilities who rely on them.

  8. Continuous Improvement: Ongoing research ensures that service dog training programs evolve with the latest knowledge and understanding. It allows for continuous improvement, adapting to new findings and technological advancements, ultimately resulting in better-trained service dogs.

In conclusion, employing scientific research within a university setting to study the impacts and benefits of training service dogs is pivotal for improving training techniques, enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities, upholding ethical standards, advancing knowledge, and fostering societal awareness and policy development.

Publications

  • Foreman, A., M. K. Glenn, B. J. Meade and O. Wirth. 2017. Dogs in the Workplace: A Review of the Benefits and Potential Challenges. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 14: 498-519.
  • Glenn, M., K. Shahan, A. Foreman, B.J. Meade, O. Wirth and K. Thorne. 2017. Legislation and other legal issues relevant in choosing to partner with a service dog in the workplace, Journal of Rehabilitation 83:17-26.
  • Parenti, L., A. M. Foreman, M. E. Wilson, O. Wirth and B. J. Meade. 2016. Selecting Quality Service Dogs (Part 3): Recommendations. The Chronicle of the Dog. Spring 2016:24-29.
  • Foreman A. M., L. Parenti, M. E. Wilson, O. Wirth and B. J. Meade. 2015. Selecting Quality Service Dogs (Part 2): Temperament Characteristics. The Chronicle of the Dog Winter 2015:25-32.
  • Parenti, L., O. Wirth, J. Meade and M.E. Wilson. 2015. Selecting and Breeding Quality Service Dogs (Part 1): Genetic and Health Considerations. The Chronicle of the Dog Summer 2015:71-77.
  • Baughman, P., A. Foreman, L. Parenti, J.R. Scotti, B.J. Meade, M.E. Wilson and O. Wirth. 2015. APDT Research Spotlight: Project ROVER’s survey of assistance dog providers. The Chronicle of the Dog Summer 2015:30-33.
  • Meade, B., M. Glenn and O. Wirth. 2013. Mission critical: Getting vets with PTSD back to work, Medscape. http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/781380
  • Parenti, L., A. Foreman, B.J. Meade and O. Wirth. A Revised Taxonomy of Assistance Animals.

Sources of Funding

  • 2018 USDA NIFA AgVets Program, entitled Appalachian Regional Veterans to Agriculture Program, $992,768 for three years. Outcome: Pending.
  • 2016 Gauss Foundation, entitled Support to achieve Assistance Dog International certification, $77,011 for three years. Outcome: Funded.
  • 2015 Snee-Rhienhardt Foundation, entitled Support for the WVU CARES Initiative for the procurement and care of service dogs, $30,000 for one year. Outcome: Funded.
  • 2015 Davis Michael Endowment, entitled Effort to improve recruitment and networking as well as professional development activities related to the WVU CARES Initiative, including Project ROVER, $3,785 for one year. Outcome: Funded.
  • 2015 Davis Michael Endowment, entitled Development of a health maintenance program and teaching laboratory for the service dog training program, $9,910. Outcome: Funded.
  • 2013. Journal of Rehabilitation Research & Development. 50: 745–756. External funding sought
  • 2011 US Dept of Health and Human Services-CDC NIOSH, entitled, Returning Our Veterans to Employment and Reintegration (ROVER), $273,702 for three years. Outcome: Funded.
  • 2010 Gauss Foundation, entitled Support for Kennel Space in Hearts of Gold Training Facility, $35,000, Outcome: Funded.
  • 2006 Cheat Lake Animal Hospital, entitled Establishing a Service Dog Training Program for Pre- veterinary Students, $10,000, Outcome: Funded.