Rate My Professor Lisa Gunter

Gunter’s research focuses on companion animal behavior and welfare, particularly human-animal interactions related to sheltering, behavioral issues, and training. Her studies investigate breed labeling and genetic heritage of shelter dogs, weeklong fostering, temporary stays, short-term outings, shelter housing, social interactions, barking interventions, post-adoption owner retention, and crisis fostering during the COVID-19 pandemic. Notable publications include “The implications of weeklong fostering and co-housing on shelter dog welfare” (PeerJ, 2026, with J.M. Platzer et al.), “Companion animal foster caregiving: a scoping review exploring animal and caregiver welfare” (PeerJ, 2024, with G.E. Phillips), “A Canine Identity Crisis: Genetic Breed Heritage Testing of Shelter Dogs” (PLoS ONE, 2018), “What’s in a Name? Effect of Breed Perceptions & Labeling on Attractiveness, Adoptions & Length of Stay for Pit-Bull-Type Dogs” (PLoS ONE, 2016), and “Evaluating the effects of a temporary fostering program on shelter dog welfare” (PeerJ, 2019). She has received the Nestlé Purina Companion Animal Award from the International Society for Applied Ethology in 2019 and 2021, the Outstanding Mentor Award from Arizona State University’s Graduate & Professional Student Association in 2018, and multiple best presentation awards. Gunter teaches APSC 5984: Managed Animal Ethology & Welfare and APSC 4984: Companion Animal Socialization & Behavior Laboratory, and holds memberships in the Animal Behavior Society, International Society for Applied Ethology, and others.