Don Cherry, a former NFL player, has embarked on a new path at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine. Raised in a household he describes as the "animal house," Cherry grew up surrounded by three dogs, five cats, three guinea pigs, hamsters, and a bird, fostering his lifelong affinity for animals. His experience includes working in animal shelters and dog walking from a young age.

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During a class at the university on Thursday, Cherry discussed his dissertation, which aims to enhance the understanding of animal behavior. He employs a multimodal framework to study dogs, incorporating aspects of physiology, microbiology, cortisol levels, and behavioral ethnograms.

Cherry also delivered a presentation focusing on behavior theory, particularly in relation to service dogs. Currently pursuing a doctorate in veterinary medicine, his research is dedicated to exploring human-animal interactions.