Behavioral Study - Taking Participants

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Tufts Animal Behavior Research Studies

• The Anxiety Wrap Study
• Clinical Aspects and Genetics of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
• Doberman Pinscher Compulsive Behavior MRI Study

The Anxiety Wrap Study

In collaboration with the inventors of the Anxiety Wrap, researchers at Tufts Animal Behavior Clinic are investigating the therapeutic effect of a body pressure wrap on canine thunderstorm phobia.

We are no longer accepting applicants for this study. The results of this study are expected to be available in the Winter of 2010. Please contact Nicole Cottam at 508-887-4802 if you have any questions about this research.

Clinical Aspects and Genetics of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

We are currently engaging in a research project that is focused on determining the genetic basis and clinical manifestation of obsessive compulsive disorders (OCDs) in purebred dogs.

Currently, we are enrolling the following breeds:

• Bull Terriers
• Border Collies
• German Shepherds
• Doberman Pinschers (affected with Acral Lick Dermatitis)

Both affected and unaffected dogs of these breeds are needed (except for Doberman Pinshers). Participants are required to fill out a behavioral survey and submit a blood sample from their dog, which can be obtained via a local veterinary office. A visit to Tufts is not required. Reimbursement for any costs associated with obtaining and shipping a blood sample to Tufts is available for owners and veterinarians. All participants are provided with written treatment information for compulsive behavior free-of-charge.

If you own a German Shepherd, a Bull Terrier or a Doberman Pinscher with Acral Lick Dermatitis and want more information about this study, please contact Nicole Cottam at 508-887-4802.

We are also studying the efficacy of a pharmaceutical in the treatment of compulsive light/shadow chasing in Border Collies. For more information, please contact Dr. Niwako Ogata Dr. Niwako Ogata at 508-887-4974.

To see if your dog qualifies for our study, please fill out this Qualification Form




Doberman Pinscher Compulsive Behavior MRI Study

This behavior study is looking for Doberman pinschers between 1.5 years and 6 years of age to participate in study on compulsive behaviors. Some common compulsive behaviors seen in Doberman pinschers include flank sucking or blanket sucking. We are looking for Dobermans who exhibit either of these specific behaviors and also Dobermans who do not show abnormal behavioral tendencies (normal behavior) for our study. Dogs enrolling in the study will be pre-screened at no cost to the owner and will receive a complete health screen at the small animal hospital at Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. This screen includes: a physical exam, completely blood test, echocardiogram, and EKG. Following, dogs may be eligible for the second part of the study involving an MRI screen at the McLean hospital in Belmont, MA.

Please contact Dr. Niwako Ogata at 508-839-5395 ext 84640 or by email at niwako.ogata@tufts.edu for more information.