International Journal of Molecular Zoology 2024, Vol.14, No.5, 273-280 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmz 275 3.3 Behavioral changes post-surgery Behavioral changes post-surgery can be influenced by the type of pre-surgical training received. Positive reinforcement-based training methods are recommended over aversive methods, as the latter can jeopardize both the physical and mental health of dogs (Ziv, 2017). Dogs that underwent pre-surgical desensitization and counter-conditioning training showed reduced fear responses during veterinary examinations, indicating that such training can lead to more positive behavioral outcomes post-surgery. Additionally, exercise training has been shown to promote locomotor recovery in animal models of SCI, suggesting that pre-surgical physical conditioning could lead to better post-surgical behavioral outcomes (Battistuzzo et al., 2012). 3.4 Case studies and empirical evidence Several case studies and empirical evidence support the benefits of pre-surgical training. For example, a study comparing BWSTT and conventional over-ground training found that dogs in the BWSTT group had a 100% recovery rate within a mean time of 4.6 weeks, compared to 78% in the conventional training group (Martins et al., 2021b). Another study on the use of PEMF in dogs with surgically treated SCI found significant improvements in proprioceptive placing and reduced post-operative pain, highlighting the potential benefits of such interventions. Additionally, a systematic review of exercise training in animal models of SCI reported positive effects on locomotor recovery, further supporting the importance of pre-surgical physical conditioning (Gouveia et al., 2022). 4 Mechanisms Behind Behavioral Training and Recovery 4.1 Stress reduction and coping strategies Behavioral training programs have been shown to significantly reduce stress and improve coping strategies in dogs (Wagner et al., 2023). For instance, a study on a standardized four-week desensitization and counter-conditioning training program demonstrated that trained dogs exhibited lower fear scores during veterinary examinations compared to control dogs, indicating reduced stress levels (Stellato et al., 2017). Additionally, veterans participating in a dog owner-trainer program reported significant reductions in perceived stress and post-traumatic stress symptoms, highlighting the stress-relieving benefits of structured dog training. These findings suggest that behavioral training can effectively mitigate stress and enhance coping mechanisms in both dogs and their owners. 4.2 Enhanced owner-pet relationships The relationship between owners and their pets can be significantly strengthened through behavioral training programs (Chen and Liu, 2023). The Dogs2Vets program, which engages veterans in the training and care of a dog, resulted in themes of decreased isolation, unconditional acceptance, and companionship, as well as a renewed sense of safety and purpose from their relationships with their dogs (Bergen-Cico et al., 2018; Juodžentė et al., 2018). This enhanced bond not only benefits the emotional well-being of the owners but also positively impacts the dogs, creating a mutually beneficial relationship that supports recovery and well-being (Matijczak et al., 2023). 4.3 Behavioral conditioning and its effects on healing Behavioral conditioning plays a crucial role in the healing process by promoting positive behaviors and reducing fear responses. The four-week desensitization and counter-conditioning training program showed that trained dogs had less reduced posture and lower fear scores during veterinary examinations, suggesting that behavioral conditioning can effectively reduce fear and anxiety in dogs (Hernández-Ávalos et al., 2021). Furthermore, a dog training program for adolescents with PTSD resulted in improved emotional and attentional regulation, which was inversely correlated with the dogs' increased anxiety and decreased selective attention performance (Maoz et al., 2021). These findings underscore the importance of behavioral conditioning in facilitating recovery and promoting overall well-being in dogs.
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