Human-animal bond: Know the science
Discover truths and myths about the science of the human-animal bond. Dip your toes into anthrozoology, the study of human-animal interactions, which explores fundamental questions regarding why people like animals, how animals perceive people, and whether animals really help people live longer, happier, healthier lives. While past research in these areas has often been weak with conflicting evidence, more recent work has yielded incredible advances that enhance our understanding of both the benefits and consequences of the human-animal bond. Learn about these innovative findings and how they can shape the way we practice medicine.
This webinar is supported through educational funding from CareCredit.
Participants can expect to learn about:
- Populations that are most significantly impacted by pet ownership and the human-animal bond
- Research on human-animal interactions that informs veterinary practice
- Practical techniques that demonstrate how a veterinarian can go above and beyond to support the human-animal bond
Dr. Zenithson Ng is a clinical associate professor of small animal primary care at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine. He received his DVM from Cornell University, then completed an internship at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and a canine/feline residency at Virginia Tech. His clinical interests include behavior, dentistry, preventive medicine, and management of chronic disease. His research and teaching interests span all aspects of the human-animal bond including the effect of human-animal interaction on both humans and animals, the veterinary-client relationship, and stress reduction in both veterinary and animal-assisted intervention settings.
Steven Feldman is the president of the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI). His love of animals and curiosity about science led him to HABRI, where he explores all the ways that pets and people benefit each other. He also shares his passion for the human-animal bond with United States policymakers, working with them to strengthen the role of pets in society. He previously worked for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.