Owners' perceptions of behavior problems and behavior therapists in Italy: A preliminary study

This study was conducted to investigate dog and cat owners' perceptions about behavior problems, behavior therapy, and behaviorists. Qualitative measures in social sciences are considered extremely useful in providing initial insight that can lead to more careful formulation of hypotheses. Seventeen pet owners, selected randomly from lists of dog and cat owners using the Windows Excel random function, were recruited via telephone using screening questionnaires. Inclusion criteria included owning a pet with behavior problems and having direct involvement in the pet's care. The respondents were divided into a dog owner (n = 9) and a cat owner (n = 8) discussion group. A discussion guide and informative materials were used by an independent moderator to focus group discussion around the effect of behavior problems on everyday life and to investigate the owners' attitudes toward potential treatment for behavior problems. A relevant difference in perception emerged between the 2 groups as to the possibility of treating behavior problems. Cat owners perceived the possibility of modifying cat behavior as difficult or impractical. Both groups were unaware of the existence of veterinary behaviorists but, when informed about the academic and professional background of such professionals, all the respondents considered the veterinary behaviorist as the most reliable and qualified helper. Qualitative measures were chosen to analyze owner attitudes and behavioral patterns in depth, but further research should follow to validate this study's findings through quantitative measures.