The Welfare of Animals in Animal-Assisted Interventions: Foundations and Best Practice Methods

This book is the first to focus on the animals' perspective and best practices to ensure the welfare of both therapy animals and their human counterparts in animal-assisted interventions. It summarizes the scientific evidence available on the impacts of animals in these settings and provides a roadmap for researchers and clinicians to safely and humanely incorporate various species of animals into therapeutic settings.

Format: Hardback
Length: 290 pages
Publication date: 07 May 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This groundbreaking book is the first of its kind to delve into the realm of animal-assisted interventions, focusing specifically on the welfare of both therapy animals and their human counterparts. Written by esteemed scientists at the forefront of this field, it comprehensively summarizes the extensive scientific evidence available regarding the impacts of these interactions on a wide range of animals, including companion species, horses, marine mammals, and other animals utilized in therapy.

The increasing prevalence of animal-assisted interventions in medical and allied health environments has brought about a heightened interest in understanding the underlying mechanisms of the human-animal bond and the therapeutic benefits they offer. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that these interventions also impose unique stresses on the animals involved. The community has only recently begun to recognize the importance of addressing these concerns and developing guidelines to ensure the welfare of these animals.

To foster the continued growth and development of this field, there is a pressing need for more evidence to shed light on the implications for animals and establish appropriate guidelines for their care. This book serves as a valuable roadmap for researchers and clinicians seeking to safely and humanely incorporate various species of animals into therapeutic settings. It provides comprehensive instructions and suggestions for areas that require further robust research over the next decade to ensure the safe and proper use of animals in therapy sessions.

This book is an indispensable resource for practitioners and researchers in medicine, clinical psychology, veterinary medicine, and welfare science. It offers insightful perspectives, practical insights, and evidence-based recommendations to enhance the impact of animal-assisted interventions and promote the well-being of all animals involved. By embracing the animals' perspective and implementing best practices, we can strive to create a more compassionate and effective approach to healthcare and therapy.

Weight: 629g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030695866
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021