Utformningen av hundkojor för utelevande draghundar – en kvalitativ intervjustudie

Sammanfattning: Abstract The aim of this bachelor thesis is to examine and analyze the existing knowledge concerning how a functional kennel should be constructed for sled dogs living outdoors. I interviewed subjects related to this area such as a construction engineer, a veterinarian, the Swedish supervisory authority and sled dog owners. A calculation model has been used to estimate which thermal aspects affecting a group of sled dogs the most in cold weather. Most of the dog owners stated that they built their kennels on legs, with a removable ceiling, and an open door with some kind of windbreak. Styrofoam is a common insulation material in walls, ceilings and floors, and the bedding material was often straw or hay. The participants (including construction engineer, veterinarian and supervisory authority) all seemed to agree that insulation should be installed in the kennels for dogs. Many dog owners seemed quite unanimous that the current legislation isn´t well suited for the wellbeing of the sled dogs. Some claimed that the provisions on kennel sizes from the Swedish agricultural authority (2008) are too large which results in a poor thermal environment for the dogs. The interviewed veterinarian supported the dog owners’ view and would like to see smaller kennels for the sled dogs. The regulatory agency and the building engineer claims that the kennels should meet with the requirements of the current legislation, including the provision of suited beds to ensure a good environment for the dogs. At the dogs Lower Critical Temperature (LCT) most of the produced body heat disperses to surrounding air and surfaces with lower radiation temperature. The heat loss from the kennel could be reduced with a proper installation of windbreak, but a denser construction might increase the requirement on the ventilation in the kennel. Calculations showed that it´s of great importance that the dogs have the right requisite to live outdoors in cold weathers, for example enough food and a adequate fur. The right adjustments have to be made if a particular dog can´t keep a regular body temperature in its kennel. The quality of the air in the kennel should not be compromised as a result of this adjustment, for example if a hatch is installed to minimize the heat disperses.