The Routledge International Handbook of Human-Animal Interactions and Anthrozoology

This diverse, global, and interdisciplinary volume explores the existing research, practice, and ethical issues pertinent to the field of human-animal interactions (HAI), interventions, and anthrozoology, focusing on the complex interactions between animals and humans in many settings, including both the benefits the challenges derived from these relationships.The book begins by exploring the basic theoretical principles of anthrozoology and HAI, such as the evolution and history of the field, the importance of language, the economic costs and current perspectives to physical and mental wellbeing, the origins of domestication of animals, anthropomorphism, and how animals fit into human societies. Chapters then move on to practical applications, covering topics such as how animals contribute to childhood and adulthood development, pet ownership, disability, the roles of pets for people with psychiatric disorders, the links between animal and domestic abuse, and then more widely into the therapeutic roles of animals, animal-assisted therapies, interactions outside the home, working animals, animals in popular culture, and animals in research, for leisure, and food. Including chapters on a wide range on animals, from domesticated pets to wildlife, this collection examines the benefits yet also reveals the complexity and difficulties of human-animal relations. This collection would be of great interest to students and practitioners in the fields of mental health, psychology, veterinary medicine, zoology, biology, social work, history, and sociology.