Archaeological Pets: A Pathological Examination of the Human-Dog Relationship in the American Southwest

Dogs have been human companions for at least 15,000 years (Morey 2010:69-70). How this relationship has been and is now defined; however, varies culturally and temporally. This research explores the complexity of our relationship with dogs in an intermediate space between ritually significant and working animals, with specific focus to the impact humans may have had on dog health. Using faunal collections from the Museum of Northern Arizona, I evaluate healed cranial fractures and worn dentition from domesticated dogs. Methodologically, previous researchers lacked formal systems for documenting these pathologies (Clark 1997; Grant 1982). Innovative data collection methods, such as comprehensive tooth wear and healed cranial lesion measurement systems, expand interpretations concerning the diverse interaction’s humans have had with animals. For this thesis, Middle-Range Theory structures the methodological approach, while a Decolonizing framework supports data interpretation.Not only does this research provides a new perspective on archaeological investigations of human-dog relationships, but it also explores an applied perspective concerning the dynamics between dogs and their owners today. Equally, the research herein challenges narratives of animal abuse from archaeologists and the public alike when considering Native American communities. Given the application of a decolonized interpretation in zooarchaeological research is rare, this research encourages the field to question assumptions about past interactions with animals based upon colonial and prejudiced ideologies. Furthermore, I argue for a strengthened understanding of the human-animal relationship, challenging the suggestion only Westernized cultures can keep pets