Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: ABSTRACT

Animal Meanings: Understanding the Determinants of Dog Owners’ Attitudes toward and Treatment of Dogs

In this paper, I investigate variations in dog owners’ attitudes toward and treatment of dogs. Using quantitative analyses of a community sample of dog owners (N=329), I describe various attitudes and treatments of dogs and explain some of their important determinants. Contrary to previous research, I find no relationship between gender, race, age, area of residence, or income and attitudes. Also contrary to previous research, I find that education is negatively associated with attitudes. Furthermore, upon investigation of the role of animals in the lives of individuals and families, I find that the presence of children is negatively associated with attitudes toward dogs, but marriage is not. I propose that social psychological and cultural theory can help us better understand the changing role and meaning of animals in people’s lives.