A study completed in the last month or so by Camille King and researchers at Northern Illinois University indicates that stress may cause premature graying in pets, much like it does in humans.  The study noted over 400 dogs and their owners.  Each dog was 4 or younger, an age when one wouldn't normally expect to see gray occurring on a pet.  The owners were asked a series of questions to gage the number of nervous habits their pet exhibited over the course of a normal day.  Some of the questions were about things like whining if the pet was left alone, or pulling overly much on a leash during a walk (both of which my family's husky did, a symptom of her pre-rescue life).  The owners weren't informed of the purpose of the questions.  Then two pictures were taken of the dog and the level of graying was graded on a scale of 0-3.  0 for 'no gray' and '3' for 'all gray'.  Researchers found a high correlation between the factors.  Dogs that showed high levels of stress or anxiety went gray at a more frequent, and more complete rate than their less-stressed counterparts.

Just an outside reflection to remind us that it's important to tend to our pet's emotional and physical needs.  Walks, petting, cuddling, and a healthy diet can all help manage stress levels in pets.