A Study of Low Mood and Anxiety in a Clinical Population of Dog Owners using Mobile Methods

Abstract

Dog ownership has been indicated by previous research findings to provide beneficial impacts on mental and physical wellbeing in the general population. However, despite researchers efforts to understand such advantages in the general population limited research has examined the possible benefits of dog ownership in a clinical group of individuals whom suffer from mental health difficulties. Even fewer have adopted qualitative methodologies which may be more advantageous to quantitative designs in order to capture the complexities and nuances of such experiences. This study used Mobile Method walk along, semi-structured interviews to capture experiences of dog ownership in seven individuals with lived experience of Anxiety and/or Low mood. In line with the authors social constructivist epistemological position, and in consultation with an expert by experience to enhance reflexivity and minimise risk of bias, data were analysed through Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA) and three themes were present in the data: (1) Behavioural factors, (2) Spiritual companionship and (3) Therapeutic Impact. These findings are discussed in relation to previous findings, clinical implications and areas for future research.