Animal Assisted Interventions: Recognizing and Mitigating Potential Welfare Challenges

This practical book explores how to conduct animal-assisted intervention (AAI) in ways that protect and prioritize animal and human welfare. It is designed for social scientists, ethologists, animal behavior and welfare students, and practitioners, and covers critical topics such as therapy animals, aging, retirement, and death, as well as ethical issues. The book is evidence-based, user-friendly, and directly applicable to students and practitioners.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 14 December 2023
Publisher: CABI Publishing

rabbits,and other small animals. · Offers individual interventions as well as crisis dogs and residential animals. · Designed to be a practical,engaging book with links to video and examples of real-life situations. · Suitable for social scientists,ethologists,animal behavior and welfare students and practitioners.
This practical book delves into the realm of animal-assisted intervention (AAI), offering valuable insights into conducting AAI practices that prioritize both animal and human welfare. Designed for social scientists, ethologists, animal behavior and welfare students, and practitioners, this resource provides a comprehensive exploration of AAI's potential benefits and challenges.

The book is organized into a series of short chapters, each presenting a diverse range of AAIs and their associated welfare concerns. These chapters offer detailed descriptions of the AAIs offered, highlighting the specific services and interventions provided. They also address the welfare challenges that may arise, providing practical strategies for mitigating these challenges effectively.

One of the key aspects of this book is its coverage of critical topics such as therapy animals' aging, retirement, and death. It addresses the ethical considerations and practical considerations involved in these phases, ensuring that both animals and humans are well-supported throughout the process. Additionally, the book delves into ethical issues surrounding animal consent, emphasizing the importance of obtaining informed consent from both the animal and the human involved in AAI.

The book recognizes that AAI encompasses a wide array of species, including not only dogs but also horses, rabbits, and other small animals. It explores the various types of AAI interventions, including individual interventions, crisis dogs (those who assist after natural and man-made disasters), and residential animals. Each type of AAI is discussed in detail, providing practical insights and examples to support the implementation of AAI practices.

One of the book's strengths is its user-friendly and engaging format. It includes numerous visual aids, such as diagrams, tables, and photographs, to enhance understanding and facilitate practical application of the information presented. Additionally, the book includes links to video examples and case studies, providing real-life scenarios and insights into the effectiveness of AAI in various contexts.

The evidence-based approach adopted by the book ensures that the information presented is grounded in scientific research and best practices. It provides a comprehensive overview of the current literature on AAI, highlighting the benefits and limitations of different AAI interventions. This knowledge empowers students and practitioners to make informed decisions and implement AAI practices that are both effective and ethical.

In conclusion, this practical book is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in conducting animal-assisted interventions in ways that protect and prioritize animal and human welfare. With its comprehensive coverage of AAI, practical insights, and user-friendly format, it offers a valuable tool for social scientists, ethologists, animal behavior and welfare students, and practitioners alike. By embracing the principles of AAI, we can enhance the well-being of both animals and humans, fostering a more compassionate and harmonious relationship between our species.

Dimension: 229 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800622593