By: Arturo Chafino-Marquez
LAS CRUCES, N.M. — Man’s best friend has its place in the New Mexico State University campus, and it can be found in the College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences.
The Human-Animal Interaction program at NMSU looks to provide insight into the 33,000-year history between dogs and humans.
In the Facility for Investigating Dog/Owner learning and behavior, also known as the FIDO LAB, Dr. Gaylene Fasenko, a companion animals professor at NMSU, looked to tackle the topic of dog intelligence.
Friday, March 27, Fasenko gave the demonstration she normally gives to her classes to a group of high schoolers from Raton, N.M.
With the assistance of her pet dogs Lilly and Samson, a golden retriever and terrier, respectively, Dr. Fasenko sought to address possible misconceptions regarding intelligence of dog breeds by demonstrating the differences in their approach to a puzzle. While Lilly did not even begin to attempt to solve it on her own, immediately looking to Fasenko for guidance, Samson was quick to pull on the ball and string to reach the treat.
Fasenko quickly dispelled the notion of a difference in intelligence, instead highlighting how each dog was quick to do what they were taught.
Fasenko explained how each different breed was selected in the past because of their abilities to do specific tasks to help humans. She also discussed the similarities that could be found with humans, stating that differences in skill sets can make one more apt for different jobs.
“If you wanted to build a basketball team, you wouldn’t pick me,” said the vertically challenged Fasenko.
To conclude her presentation, Fasenko made sure to emphasize the key takeaways from the exercise.
“Dogs are really cool,” Fasenko said. “They’re awesome, and 33,000 years can change a lot.”
New Mexico State University offers a Companion Animals and the Human-Animal Interaction course (ANSC 312V), where topics like human and animal health and wellness, Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT), and service animals are discussed. The class was available to register for in the Spring 2026 semester, where 72 students enrolled.
NMSU also offers an Undergraduate Minor in Human Animal Interaction, where students can take up to six different courses which include topics like past history, service animal laws, how dogs learn and are trained, as well as health and disease in canines and felines. The minor also includes an internship requirement, where students will have the possibility to coordinate a hands-on role in facilities like dog day cares, animal services and even zoos.
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