Honors Theses

Department

Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture

Department

Department of Political Science and Public Administration

Degree

Bachelor of Science

Major

Psychology

Abstract

Growing concern over animal welfare has led to new policies that ban declaw procedures on cats. In the United States, several cities have instituted bans, including Denver, Colorado. This study examines whether the ban has resulted in changed euthanasia rates and adoption rates in an animal shelter system. Data on euthanasia rates and adoption rates were gathered for thirteen years prior to the ban and for five years following implementation. The euthanasia rate was found to have decreased while the adoption rate increased. Several possible explanations are explored and a recommendation for public policy is given.

Date Defended

4-1-2022

Thesis Director

Allen, Peter

Second Committee Member

Farmer, Angela

Third Committee Member

Pugh, Brian

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