Does your pet have a glass half full, or glass half empty take on life? We recently discovered that many animals can be optimistic or pessimistic based on their experiences. Dr Melissa Starling holds a Bachelor of Science in Zoology and recently gained her PhD from the Faculty of Veterinary Science at the University of Sydney with a topic that covered elements of dog behaviour, personality, emotions and cognition. She has long had a passion for animal behaviour and animal training that has intensified as she learns more. In this episode, we talk to Mel about her PhD research investigating optimism and pessimism – or cognitive bias – in dogs. More: http://www.humananimalscience.com.au/cognitive-bias/

Is your dog optimistic? Cognitive bias in animals

Human Animal Science is a regular podcast hosted by Tim Adams and Mia Cobb that takes a scientific view of the world of humans and animals. Human Animal Science, also known as anthrozoology, is a growing multidisciplinary field of enquiry, and one that produces fascinating topics. Only the most recent episodes will be hosted on Soundcloud. To listen to all episodes, find us on iTunes or visit our website: http://www.humananimalscience.com