Animals in Our Lives: Human-Animal Interaction in Family, Community, and Therapeutic Settings

What do we know about the benefits of human-animal interaction (HAI)- and what future research needs to be done to ensure high-quality, evidence-based practices? Find out in this book, a resource that presents the latest research on the positive effects of animal therapies and interactions on child health and development.

Gathering contributions from the leading experts in the HAI field, this state-of-the-art research volume is essential for anyone interested in the impact animals have on child development, whether through interaction with pets or through more formal interventions like therapeutic horseback riding or assistance dogs. Program administrators, researchers, and practitioners will explore the current evidence on
how children with disabilities- including autism- can benefit from animal therapies
how animals can strengthen empathy, trust, relationships, and other hallmarks of social competence
why animal-assisted intervention is valuable for children with mental health issues and physical illnesses
how animals in classrooms can motivate children to learn and enhance a wide range of developmental skills
which key factors help ensure ethical HAI practices
how to reduce risks associated with child- animal interactions, including allergies, bites, and viruses
why pet ownership can benefit both a child and the whole family.