There is a widespread belief that interaction with an animal is beneficial for the development
of children, and several studies (most with methodological shortcomings) have investigated …

This introductory chapter provides readers with a basic foundation not only to appreciate
and understand this unique kinship with all living creatures but also to discover the roots to …

Pet expenditures have doubled over the past ten years, reflecting the growing involvement
of Americans and their pets. The goal of this research was to explore the meanings and …

Attachment to pets has an important role in children's social, emotional, and cognitive
development, mental health, well-being, and quality of life. This study examined …

A group of elementary students (n= 155) were surveyed with respect to four aspects of
relationships with pets—preference, ownership, attachment, and attitude—in order to further …

Although most human-animal bond research has focused on relationships between humans
and pets, animals have been used for therapeutic purposes in a variety of settings …

All therapeutic interventions involving animals rest on a powerful assumption: there is
something about animals that powerfully attracts and motivates humans. This assumption …

Background It is estimated that more than half of children living in households where
intimate partner violence (IPV) occurs are also exposed to animal cruelty (AC). Although …

Publisher Summary Research is needed to identify the underlying mechanisms of animal-
assisted therapy (AAT) that produce therapeutic changes. The findings from the studies …

Childhood trauma, abuse or neglect impacts the function and structure of the brain of
affected children. Attunement with other beings as well as an enriched environment can …