1
|
Junça-Silva A, Galrito M. Pets at work: integrating pet-friendly initiatives into human resources for enhanced workplace harmony. BMC Psychol 2024; 12:374. [PMID: 38956720 PMCID: PMC11218162 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-01854-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS The representation of companion animals, or pets, has been changing recently. Research concerning how pets influence employees' work-related well-being has also started to take its first steps. This research aimed to analyze (1) how managers perceive pet-friendly practices and their main effects at work, and (2) the impact of such practices on employees' well-being and work engagement. Relying on the social exchange perspective and the self-determination theory it was hypothesized that pet-friendly practices would positively influence employees' well-being and work engagement by satisfying their three basic needs (autonomy, competence, and relatedness). METHODOLOGY Two studies with mixed methods were conducted. The first and exploratory study resorted to semi-structured interviews with six managers. The second was a two-wave study conducted with a large sample of workers (N = 379). RESULTS The first study highlighted the primary advantages and disadvantages of pet-friendly practices, along with the various obstacles and limitations, and proposed managerial strategies to overcome them. Managers generally expressed interest and enthusiasm about the topic but also pointed out challenges in implementing a pet-friendly strategy due to the limited number of empirical studies demonstrating its benefits. The second study's findings indicated that pet-friendly practices positively impacted employees' work engagement and well-being by fulfilling their needs for competence, autonomy, and relatedness. ORIGINALITY Overall, Portugal is seen as having a conservative culture, which slows the dissemination and implementation of these measures. To overcome these challenges, several managerial recommendations have been proposed. Raising awareness and fostering discussion on the topic are crucial steps toward integrating pet-friendly policies into human resources management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Junça-Silva
- Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), Lisboa, Portugal.
- Business Research Unit - BRU (UNIDE-IUL), Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Marisa Galrito
- Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), Lisboa, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lambertucci SA, Zamora-Nasca LB, Sengupta A, de la Reta M, Plaza PI. Evidence-based legislation, strong institutions and consensus needed to mitigate the negative impacts of free-ranging dogs. AMBIO 2024; 53:299-308. [PMID: 37740870 PMCID: PMC10774468 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-023-01928-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Dogs bring many benefits to our society but, if not properly managed, they can be detrimental for humans, livestock and wildlife. We highlight the increasing problems associated with free-ranging dogs using examples from two regions of the world where this issue is pervasive, India and South America. In these regions, free-ranging dogs spread diseases, injure people, harm biodiversity, and negatively impact human livelihoods. We discuss why mitigating these deleterious effects can be extremely complicated because there are diverse challenges such as: (a) a lack of or inappropriate legislations concerning free-ranging dog management and human-dog interactions, (b) unregulated intentional and unintentional feeding of free-ranging dogs, (c) limitations of animal shelters, (d) non-responsible ownership, and (e) uncontrolled dog populations. As the management of animal species is usually shaped by differing interests, existing policies and regulations, views and social influence of stakeholders, power asymmetries between interested parties is yet another challenge in this regard. We need evidence-based legislations and strong institutions (e.g., public health and conservation institutions) that are capable of implementing governance principles and managing the complexities of this socio-ecological system by taking science-based decisions, and balancing power asymmetries to promote consensus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sergio A Lambertucci
- Grupo de Investigaciones en Biología de la Conservación, Laboratorio Ecotono, INIBIOMA, Universidad Nacional del Comahue - CONICET, Quintral 1250, R8400FRF, Bariloche, Rio Negro, Argentina.
| | - Lucía B Zamora-Nasca
- Grupo de Investigaciones en Biología de la Conservación, Laboratorio Ecotono, INIBIOMA, Universidad Nacional del Comahue - CONICET, Quintral 1250, R8400FRF, Bariloche, Rio Negro, Argentina
| | - Asmita Sengupta
- Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment, Royal Enclave, Sriramapura, Jakkur Post, Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560 064, India
- National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Marina de la Reta
- Grupo de Investigaciones en Biología de la Conservación, Laboratorio Ecotono, INIBIOMA, Universidad Nacional del Comahue - CONICET, Quintral 1250, R8400FRF, Bariloche, Rio Negro, Argentina
| | - Pablo I Plaza
- Grupo de Investigaciones en Biología de la Conservación, Laboratorio Ecotono, INIBIOMA, Universidad Nacional del Comahue - CONICET, Quintral 1250, R8400FRF, Bariloche, Rio Negro, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Foltin S, Glenk LM. Going to the office - What's in it for the dog? J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2023:1-17. [PMID: 37830294 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2023.2268540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Benefits and challenges of dogs being present at the office were analyzed from three perspectives: the company view, the dog owner (employee) and the dog view. For companies, office dogs may serve as a branding symbol, leading to higher employee satisfaction and productivity, increased stress resilience and fewer turnover intentions. Yet, companies need to apply pet policies, risk management strategies and mitigate nuisance such as barking, loose fur or excrement. Additional breaks to walk the dogs are required and other employees or customers may be irritated. Employees take advantage of stress reduction, social support, higher job satisfaction, not having to leave their animal at home. Still, an office dog is an added responsibility in terms well-being, safety, distraction from work and emotional involvement. Although the animal perspective has not yet been scientifically addressed, we propose potential benefits such as less separation distress by having the owner nearby, higher social engagement and additional walks during breaks. Challenges for dogs may involve unwanted attention, aversive environmental stimulation, being restrained via leash or crate, irritation caused by conspecifics, emotional contagion or individual requirements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Foltin
- Department of Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - L M Glenk
- Comparative Medicine, The Interuniversity Messerli Research Institute of the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University Vienna and University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Karl Landsteiner Research Institute for Neurochemistry, Neuropharmacology, Neurorehabilitation and Pain Treatment Mauer-Amstetten, Mauer-Amstetten, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Junça-Silva A. 'Pawing' uncertainty! how dogs attenuate the impact of daily hassles at work on uncertainty. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:251. [PMID: 37644577 PMCID: PMC10466751 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01295-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study relied on the integrative model of uncertainty tolerance to delineate an argument proposing that daily hassles trigger uncertainty, and this influences adaptive performance. Furthermore, relying on the "furr-recovery method" -where interactions with dogs allow dog owners to recover from negative situations or job demands - this study tested whether having a dog would moderate the relationship between daily hassles and uncertainty. METHODOLOGY To test this proposed model, daily data during ten working days was gathered with a sample of white-collar workers who were teleworking (N = 233 × 10 = 2,330). FINDINGS Multilevel results showed that daily hassles influenced adaptive performance via perceived uncertainty. However, the relationship between daily hassles and uncertainty was conditional on the ownership of a dog, in such a way that the relationship became weaker for those who had dogs. That is, those who did not have dogs had increased levels of uncertainty after daily hassles when compared to those who had dogs. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS Managers may consider the adoption of pet-friendly work practices (for instance, telework - working from home allow employees to work nearby and interact with their dogs during worktime) as dogs appear to have a beneficial effect to help employees effectively cope with daily hassles and reduce their uncertain reactions. ORIGINALITY This study advances knowledge regarding the pawing-effect (the reduced uncertainty to daily hassles on dog owners) on employees' uncertainty to daily hassles and opens new venues for research regarding their role in work-related outcomes. Further, future research could examine how human-dog interactions or the quality of their relationship may benefit owners and explore the benefits of bringing dogs to work periodically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Junça-Silva
- Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), Lisboa, Portugal.
- Business Research Unit - BRU (UNIDE-IUL), Avenida das Forças Armadas, 1649-026, Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Tumlin KI, Riley EN, Vsevolozhskaya O, Cull M. Lower Emotional Exhaustion among Employees Is Associated with Intentional Incorporation of Animals into Residential Care Settings. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:bs13050421. [PMID: 37232658 DOI: 10.3390/bs13050421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Secondary effects of animal-integrated programming on residential care center (RCC) staff and organizational culture are not well understood. We explored emotional exhaustion among RCC employees both in facilities that incorporated animals and those that did not incorporate animals into the therapeutic environment. We conducted a survey throughout a large midwestern RCC system in the United States to determine relationships between organizational culture, emotional exhaustion, and the intentionality by which animals were incorporated into programming. Data were analyzed by examining associations between variables of interest using chi-square or t-tests, and linear mixed-effects modeling was used to identify potential confounding effects due to differences in children served within RCCs. Staff from RCCs that used animals intentionally reported lower emotional exhaustion (p = 0.006), and higher average workplace safety (p = 0.024) and psychological safety (p < 0.001). Integrating animals into RCC programming is associated with elements of a strong organizational culture. It is possible that animal-integrated programming has a positive impact on the facility culture and workforce, and/or that RCCs with strong pre-existing cultures are more likely to use animal-integrated programming.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly I Tumlin
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Elizabeth N Riley
- Department of Health Management & Policy, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Olga Vsevolozhskaya
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Michael Cull
- Department of Health Management & Policy, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
McPherson R, Loafman LW. Inclusive workplace practices: understanding disability-assistance animal stereotype-bias signals. ORGANIZATION MANAGEMENT JOURNAL 2023. [DOI: 10.1108/omj-08-2022-1588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to fill a distinct gap in the literature on disability-assistance animals (disability-AAs) and inclusive employment by investigating human resource (HR) practitioners’ perceptions of disability-AAs in the staffing process and workplace. HR practitioners play a critical role in accommodation and inclusion, yet their experiences and insights have been largely ignored in prior research.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used a phenomenological approach, drawing on signaling theory and employability constructs, to explore insights from 17 HR practitioners’ experiences with assistance animals in the workplace.
Findings
The potential for unconscious bias in employment practices was found, as well as a significant percentage of practitioners who were unprepared to handle animal accommodations. First, the potential development of a positive stereotype bias suggests all genuine assistance animals are high functioning. Second, the assumption that employees’ assistance animal requests for invisible disabilities without previous disclosure are presumed fraudulent until proven valid.
Research limitations/implications
As a qualitative study, findings from this study are not generalizable to a larger population but may be transferable to similar employment contexts.
Originality/value
This study extends knowledge from previous studies, which focused predominately on insights from disabled individuals, animal trainers and therapists, to the HR practitioner domain in creating a more inclusive work environment. Findings from this study suggest the need to improve education about disability-AAs and the potential for unconscious bias for HR practitioners and hiring managers when accommodating requests, particularly when those assistance animals are not described as high functioning.
Collapse
|
7
|
Victor B, Mayer CH. The love of pets in managing remote work challenges during Covid-19. Int Rev Psychiatry 2022; 35:86-96. [PMID: 36538065 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2022.2151342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, a large number of employed individuals all over the world were obliged to work remotely during lockdown. This article focuses on the coping mechanisms which individuals used to manage this difficult situation, specifically the impact which loving and caring for pets had on the way in which people dealt with the challenges of the remote-working environment. Methodologically, this qualitative study used a phenomenological research design to understand the lived experience of the participants in the study. Ten qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with pet owners during the Covid-19 lockdown period in South Africa. The sample was recruited using purposeful and snowball sampling techniques. Data were analysed through content analysis while qualitative quality criteria were applied. Findings show pets supported their owners in many different ways during the pandemic and only the animal's presence supported the owners at home physically, psychologically and emotionally. They helped to reduce the stress of their owners and create a homely atmosphere. Pets played a specific role in providing love, companionship, strong emotional and affective bonds and by creating experiences of comfort, positive as well as negative distraction from work, and physical presence. The experience of love was one major aspect of the relationships between pets and humans. Conclusions are drawn and recommendations are given with regard to future research, highlighting how organisations and consultants can use the positive influences of pets in remote-working scenarios.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Victor
- Department of Industrial Psychology and People Management, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Claude-Hélène Mayer
- Department of Industrial Psychology and People Management, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Palestrini C, Minozzi G, Mazzola SM, Lopez A, Cannas S. Do intense weather events influence dogs' and cats' behavior? Analysis of owner reported data in Italy. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:973574. [PMID: 36118344 PMCID: PMC9480616 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.973574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Climate change is a threat to global health and can affect both veterinary and human health. Intense weather events, including sudden and violent thunderstorms or periods of extreme heat, are predicted to rise in frequency and severity and this could lead owners to significantly change their habits and schedules based on the weather, could modify human management and could aggravate pre-existing behavioral problems in pets. The aims of the present study were to identify and quantify possible weather events impact on management, behavior, and behavioral problems of Italian dogs and cats, based on previous owners' experiences with their animals. Two questionnaires were prepared, one for dogs and one for cats, investigating owners' perceptions of the impact of weather events on their pets' behavior. A number of 392 dogs and 426 cats' owners answered the questionnaire. Our study showed that many behaviors in both species were equally modified by environmental temperature. Play and activity increased with cold weather and decreased with heat, and sleep increased with drops in temperature and with hot weather. In particular, the increase in activity in correspondence with the thermic drop was more significant in males, while the increase in playing behavior was statistically greater in the Sheepdogs and Cattle dogs –group1. Weather events did not affect aggressive and house soiling behaviors in both dogs and cats, but weather events, including wild thunderstorms, torrential rains influenced the pets' behavior. Understanding how pets modify their behaviors based on a different owners' schedule and to weather events can help to refine prevention strategies through societal changes and owner education.
Collapse
|
9
|
Lindsay S, Thiyagarajah K. A Scoping Review of the Benefits and Challenges of Using Service Dogs for Finding and Maintaining Employment. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2022; 32:27-43. [PMID: 33909183 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-021-09980-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Having a service dog can help increase the independence of people with disabilities and they are considered a reasonable accommodation within employment settings. The objective of this scoping review was to understand the benefits and challenges of using a service dog in gaining and maintaining employment. Methods Systematic searches of seven international databases led to 19 studies meeting our inclusion criteria. Using a narrative review approach, we analyzed these studies regarding their sample characteristics, methods, results and quality of evidence. Results Nineteen studies were included in the review, which spanned across 6 countries over a 24-year period. Our findings showed that the benefits of having a service dog included improvements in employment status, employers' recognition of service dogs as a workplace accommodation, lower absenteeism, ability to travel to work, and other career-related benefits. Challenges with having a service dog included discrimination and exclusion, and lack of employers' awareness of service dogs and people with disabilities. Conclusions Our findings highlight several benefits and challenges of having a service dog in the workplace. More research is needed to explore the impact of service dogs on employment, health and productivity in the workplace and how this may vary by type of disability and service dog.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sally Lindsay
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Bloorview Research Institute, 150 Kilgour Road, Toronto, ON, M4G 1R8, Canada.
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Kavitha Thiyagarajah
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Bloorview Research Institute, 150 Kilgour Road, Toronto, ON, M4G 1R8, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Animal-Assisted Intervention and Health Care Workers’ Psychological Health: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030383. [PMID: 35158706 PMCID: PMC8833329 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Healthcare settings have recently increased the use of companion animals in the workplace to provide emotional support to people with disabilities, but there is limited empirical research on the effects of these programs on healthcare workers. However, it is reasonable to speculate that Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAIs) may have positive effects on health care workers (HCWs) by buffering the negative effects of work-related stress and other occupational psychosocial risk factors. The aim of this review was to examine the beneficial effects of AAIs on the psychological well-being of HCWs. A systematic review was conducted in December 2021 to gain insight into the positive effects of pets on HCWs in the workplace. Searches were conducted in the following databases: Scopus, PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, including studies between 2001 and December 2021, and 12 articles were included in the review. The results indicate that implementing the AAI program in a busy clinic is feasible and that the program is accepted by medical professionals because of the immense psychological benefits it provides. However, the healthcare professionals disliked the experimental design that forced them to leave their workplaces at a certain time.
Collapse
|
11
|
Friends with Benefits: The Positive Consequences of Pet-Friendly Practices for Workers’ Well-Being. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031069. [PMID: 35162092 PMCID: PMC8834589 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Although there is evidence that pets may help individuals who are facing significant daily stressors, little is known about the benefits of pet-friendly practices for their owners’ well-being. Based on the social exchange theory and on the Rusbult investment model, we argue that organizational pet-friendly practices will be viewed as a source of support from an organization that increases workers’ organizational identification, which in turn will lead to higher levels of psychological well-being and life satisfaction. For this study, 208 working adults answered an online questionnaire. Results from the study showed that the more pet-friendly practices the higher the workers’ organizational identification, which led to higher indices of psychological well-being and life satisfaction. This study contributes to a better understanding of the human–animal interaction and how pets can function as a resource for individuals’ well-being at work.
Collapse
|
12
|
Jensen CL, Bibbo J, Rodriguez KE, O’Haire ME. The effects of facility dogs on burnout, job-related well-being, and mental health in paediatric hospital professionals. J Clin Nurs 2021; 30:1429-1441. [PMID: 33555610 PMCID: PMC11166410 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.15694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To examine the effect of working with a facility dog on paediatric healthcare professionals' work-related burnout, job perceptions and mental health. BACKGROUND Due to their roles caring for ill children and distressed families, paediatric healthcare professionals often experience substantial depression and burnout. According to prior research, facility dogs in children's hospitals may provide significant benefits to paediatric patients. However, their potential effects on healthcare professionals have been minimally explored. DESIGN A cross-sectional design was used in adherence to the STROBE checklist. METHOD Among 130 participants, n = 65 paediatric healthcare professionals working with a facility dog were compared to n = 65 control participants matched on age, gender identity, job position category and pet ownership. Hierarchical regression assessed the effect of working with a facility dog on standardised self-report measures of work-related burnout, job perceptions and mental health. RESULTS For work-related burnout, working with a facility dog was associated with higher perceived personal accomplishment, but had no effect on emotional exhaustion. With respect to job perceptions, working with a facility dog was associated with more positive job descriptions and lower intention to quit, but not with perceptions about co-workers or workplace social support. Finally, in relation to mental health, working with a facility dog was associated with more positive emotions, better perceived mental health and less depression, but had no effect on anxiety. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that facility dogs may be related to several benefits for healthcare professionals' work-related burnout, job perceptions and mental health, but that they do not influence all components of these areas. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE The present research functions to inform personnel in paediatric hospitals with existing facility dog programmes on the scope of their effects, in addition to shaping the expectations of hospitals considering the addition of a facility dog programme.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clare L. Jensen
- Center for the Human-Animal Bond, Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Jessica Bibbo
- Center for the Human-Animal Bond, Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Center for Research and Education, Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Kerri E. Rodriguez
- Center for the Human-Animal Bond, Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Human-Animal Bond in Colorado, School of Social Work, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Marguerite E. O’Haire
- Center for the Human-Animal Bond, Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hahn SA, Hinton J, Hallyburton A. Emotional Support Animals: An Overview of Practical and Legal Issues for Social Workers. HEALTH & SOCIAL WORK 2021; 45:276-283. [PMID: 33313668 DOI: 10.1093/hsw/hlaa024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Limited literature exists to guide social workers in the effective and ethical use of emotional support animals (ESAs) in practice. This article deals with practical issues these professionals face in dealing with requests for ESA authorization. The article provides an overview of relevant U.S. regulations (as of mid-2019) governing housing, travel, workplaces, and higher education; examines the uses, efficacy, and special concerns regarding ESAs; and presents recommendations for the use of ESAs in social work practice. Ethical implications for social workers dealing with client assessment and ESA authorization are discussed. The authors also address the intrinsic nature of human and ESA well-being and its relevance to client-centered social work practice. In addition, the authors discuss opportunities for incorporating ESAs into social work education.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sur Ah Hahn
- associate professor, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, NC
| | - Jennifer Hinton
- associate professor and recreational therapy program director, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, NC
| | - Ann Hallyburton
- associate professor and research and instruction librarian, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, NC
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Tulloch JSP, Owczarczak-Garstecka SC, Fleming KM, Vivancos R, Westgarth C. English hospital episode data analysis (1998-2018) reveal that the rise in dog bite hospital admissions is driven by adult cases. Sci Rep 2021; 11:1767. [PMID: 33469116 PMCID: PMC7815787 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81527-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Dog bites are a global health issue that can lead to severe health outcomes. This study aims to describe the incidence and sociodemographics of patients admitted to English National Health Service (NHS) hospitals for dog bites (1998-2018), and to estimate their annual direct health care costs. An analysis of patient level data utilising hospital episode statistics for NHS England, including: temporal trends in annual incidence of admission, Poisson models of the sociodemographic characteristics of admitted patients, and direct health care cost estimates. The incidence of dog bite admissions rose from 6.34 (95%CI 6.12-6.56) in 1998 to 14.99 (95%CI 14.67-15.31) admissions per 100,000 population in 2018, with large geographic variation. The increase was driven by a tripling of incidence in adults. Males had the highest rates of admission in childhood. Females had two peaks in admission, childhood and 35-64 years old. Two percent (2.05%, 95%CI 0.93-3.17) of emergency department attendances resulted in admission. Direct health care costs increased and peaked in the financial year 2017/2018 (admission costs: £25.1 million, emergency attendance costs: £45.7million). Dog bite related hospital admissions have increased solely in adults. Further work exploring human-dog interactions, stratified by demographic factors, is urgently needed to enable the development of appropriate risk reduction intervention strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John S P Tulloch
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 3GL, UK.
- Public Health England, Liverpool, L3 1DS, UK.
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, CH64 7TE, UK.
| | - Sara C Owczarczak-Garstecka
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, CH64 7TE, UK
- Institute of Risk and Uncertainty, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZF, UK
- Dogs Trust, London, EC1V 7RQ, UK
| | - Kate M Fleming
- Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 3GL, UK
| | - Roberto Vivancos
- Public Health England, Liverpool, L3 1DS, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Public Health England, Liverpool, L3 1DS, UK
| | - Carri Westgarth
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, CH64 7TE, UK
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Dogs at the Workplace: A Multiple Case Study. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11010089. [PMID: 33466471 PMCID: PMC7824880 DOI: 10.3390/ani11010089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pet-friendly policies are becoming more common in the workplace, but little is known about how the presence of dogs influences the work environment. For this reason, the paper includes a study on how dogs influence the work environment and under which circumstances companies can benefit from a pet-friendly policy. An inductive research approach was used for this study. Qualitative data were conducted by interviewing dog-owners who routinely bring their dogs to the office and persons in management positions in the same companies. Finally, the results of the evolving data analysis through successive iterations was formed into a grounded theory. The results of the study generally support the belief that dogs at the workplace can have a positive influence on individual and collective well-being of organizational members in an office environment. However, the study shows that these positive effects of dogs are linked to certain prerequisites that need to be fulfilled in the company. These include flexible hours, autonomy, and open communication. While those requisites are not necessary in order to be able to implement pet-friendly policies, they are highly relevant when companies seek to decrease stress for employees and improve the work atmosphere and social capital. Abstract As the work environment is increasing in competitiveness and stressfulness, more and more companies try to increase employee well-being. One option is allowing employees to bring their dogs to work, building on the considerable evidence that dogs have a positive influence on people’s well-being. However, little is known about how a dog’s presence influences the employees and the companies in offices. Therefore, we empirically scrutinize the presence of dogs in organizations and the impact of pet-friendly organizational policies, with multiple case studies with semi-structured interviews as their foundation. Based on an inductive approach for the data analysis, we found that organizational members consider that dogs can lower their stress, improve communication, and foster social cohesion when a flexible organizational culture is in place. This includes the following: Problems in the company are openly addressed; employees have job autonomy, with flexibility to take breaks; and mistakes and errors are allowed to be made by employees and their companions alike, and room to find solutions is given. The inflexible permission of pets at work can, on the contrary, create pressure and stress in employees. For the business world, this implicates that this kind of incentive only leads to success if the right framework and culture is in place, and it cannot only be seen as an instrument to increase employee well-being.
Collapse
|
16
|
Lindsay S, Thiyagarajah K. The impact of service dogs on children, youth and their families: A systematic review. Disabil Health J 2020; 14:101012. [PMID: 33069669 DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2020.101012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Having a service dog can help to increase independence and well-being among people with a disability or a chronic health condition. Although there has been an increasing use of service dogs among children and youth their impact has not yet been synthesized. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this article was to conduct a systematic review assessing the impact of service dogs on children, youth and their families. METHODS Systematic searches of seven international databases from 1985 to 2020 led to 29 studies meeting our inclusion criteria. Using a narrative synthesis review approach we analyzed these studies regarding their sample characteristics, methods, results and quality of evidence. RESULTS There were 29 studies in our review that included 1121 children and youth (or parents representing them) that spanned across six countries over a 32-year period. Although the outcomes of the impact of service dogs varied across the studies, 23/29 of them reported an improvement in at least one of the following: physical health (i.e., diabetes management, seizure management, mobility), psychological health (i.e., quality of life, safety, behavior, stress, anxiety, self-confidence and independence), social well-being (i.e., social interactions, school and work) and dog-owner-bond. Children, youth and their parents also described several challenges in owning a service dog. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight that service dogs have potential to provide many benefits for children, youth and their families. Further research, including more rigorously designed studies, is needed to fully understand their impact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sally Lindsay
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, 150 Kilgour Road, Toronto, ON, M4G 1R8, Canada; Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Kavitha Thiyagarajah
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, 150 Kilgour Road, Toronto, ON, M4G 1R8, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Caton N, Campbell K, Brumwell T, Pratt M, Stewart L, Wong E, Zurberg T. Pups Assisting Wellness for Staff (P.A.W.S.): Evaluating the impact of canine-assisted interventions on critical care staff wellness. Healthc Manage Forum 2020; 34:119-122. [PMID: 32996336 DOI: 10.1177/0840470420960162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Acute care settings can expose staff to job-related stressors. Pups Assisting Wellness for Staff (P.A.W.S.) has been designed as an innovative approach to support acute care staff in the emergency department and intensive care unit. Initially, P.A.W.S. was implemented as a Comfort Dog Pilot and then expanded into a Therapy Dog Model. The Therapy Dog Model incorporated learnings from the Comfort Dog Pilot to evaluate the impact of the following: more dogs, using certified therapy dogs, and visiting at different times of the day. Results throughout the project demonstrated a positive impact on staff morale, staff stress, overall and staff satisfaction, and a strong desire for the project to continue. As a result and with a collaborative effort between a multidisciplinary team, P.A.W.S. has now been operationalized as a permanent program to support staff in acute care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Caton
- Quality and Patient Safety, 25469Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kerry Campbell
- Quality and Patient Safety, 25469Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Tammy Brumwell
- Emergency Department & Team Based Quality Improvement, 25469Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Megan Pratt
- Intensive Care Unit & Team Based Quality Improvement, 25469Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lisa Stewart
- Quality and Patient Safety, 25469Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Eliza Wong
- Employee Safety, Health and Wellness, 25469Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Teresa Zurberg
- Canine Scent Detection Unit, 25469Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Hall EJ, Carter AJ, O’Neill DG. Dogs Don't Die Just in Hot Cars-Exertional Heat-Related Illness (Heatstroke) Is a Greater Threat to UK Dogs. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E1324. [PMID: 32751913 PMCID: PMC7459873 DOI: 10.3390/ani10081324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Heat-related illness will affect increasing numbers of dogs as global temperatures rise unless effective mitigation strategies are implemented. This study aimed to identify the key triggers of heat-related illness in dogs and investigate canine risk factors for the most common triggers in UK dogs. Using the VetCompassTM programme, de-identified electronic patient records of 905,543 dogs under primary veterinary care in 2016 were reviewed to identify 1259 heat-related illness events from 1222 dogs. Exertional heat-related illness was the predominant trigger (74.2% of events), followed by environmental (12.9%) and vehicular confinement (5.2%). Canine and human risk factors appear similar; young male dogs had greater odds of exertional heat-related illness, older dogs and dogs with respiratory compromise had the greatest odds of environmental heat-related illness. Brachycephalic dogs had greater odds of all three types of heat-related illness compared with mesocephalic dogs. The odds of death following vehicular heat-related illness (OR 1.47, p = 0.492) was similar to that of exertional heat-related illness. In the UK, exertional heat-related illness affects more dogs, and kills more dogs, than confinement in a hot vehicle. Campaigns to raise public awareness about heat-related illness in dogs need to highlight that dogs don't die just in hot cars.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily J. Hall
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Brackenhurst, Southwell, Notts NG25 0QF, UK;
| | - Anne J. Carter
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Brackenhurst, Southwell, Notts NG25 0QF, UK;
| | - Dan G. O’Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA, UK;
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Paws for Thought: A Controlled Study Investigating the Benefits of Interacting with a House-Trained Dog on University Students Mood and Anxiety. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9100846. [PMID: 31640244 PMCID: PMC6826684 DOI: 10.3390/ani9100846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This study investigates whether interacting with a dog would have a positive effect on university students’ mood and anxiety. Students were assigned to either watch videos of a dog or interact directly with a dog. Several measures were collected both before and after their assigned conditions to evaluate their mood and anxiety levels and to assess for possible changes. The results indicated that participants in both conditions experienced a reduction in their anxiety and an improvement in their mood across time, however those who directly interacted with a dog experienced a greater decline in anxiety and improved mood scores. Abstract University students have been found to have higher rates of psychological distress than that of the general population, which reportedly rises significantly upon starting university and does not return to pre-university levels throughout their time in university. It is therefore highly important to find ways to improve student health and well-being. One way that may help is by interacting with animals. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine whether interacting with a dog would have a positive effect on university students’ mood and anxiety. This study assigned 82 university students to either the experimental condition (dog interaction, n = 41) or to the control condition (dog video, n = 41). The students completed the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule-Expanded Form (PANAS-X), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the Pet Attitude Scale before their assigned conditions, to evaluate their mood and anxiety levels and attitudes to animals. The participants again completed the STAI and PANAS-X Form after their condition, to assess for possible changes in anxiety and mood. The findings of the study indicated that all participants, regardless of condition, experienced a reduction in their anxiety and an improvement in their mood across time. However, directly interacting with a dog resulted in greater declines in anxiety and improved mood scores, more so than watching a video. Consequently, it appears there are psychological benefits to be gained by students from interacting with dogs and it is hoped this study will help to inform future best practices in designing student dog interventions.
Collapse
|
20
|
Hunter C, Verreynne ML, Pachana N, Harpur P. The impact of disability-assistance animals on the psychological health of workplaces: A systematic review. HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT REVIEW 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hrmr.2018.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
21
|
Chattel or Child: The Liminal Status of Companion Animals in Society and Law. SOCIAL SCIENCES-BASEL 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/socsci8050158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Companion animals in the U.S. are increasingly regarded as members of the family with whom one may share a strong emotional bond. However, despite an evolving social construction that has elevated their status in the dominant culture, companion animals lack meaningful legal rights, and “family member” is a provisional status that can be dissolved at will based on the discretion of the sole rights-holder in the relationship: the human owner. Because they are still defined within the U.S. legal system as property, it is a common lament within the animal protection movement that the law has not kept pace with the emergent cultural perception of companion animals as family or best friends who may occupy a significant place in one’s constellation of interpersonal relationships. But how divergent are the laws that govern our treatment of companion animals from prevailing social norms? This article examines current trends in animal law and society to shed light on this question. I find that while a new family member cultural status is emerging for companion animals in the U.S., their legal status as property is a countervailing force, enabling contradictory practices and beliefs that construct animals as expendable. The fact that their cultural status is in flux in turn reinforces their status under the law. I conclude with proposed policy reforms that will facilitate the integration of companion animals into society as true rather than rhetorical family members.
Collapse
|
22
|
Hall SS, Mills DS. Taking Dogs Into the Office: A Novel Strategy for Promoting Work Engagement, Commitment and Quality of Life. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:138. [PMID: 31134215 PMCID: PMC6513973 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite growing interest in “take your dog to work” days and the wellbeing benefits associated with interactions with a friendly dog (e.g., animal-assisted activities), there has been little quantification of the benefits of this. We analyzed responses to work-related (work engagement, turnover intention, work-based friendship acuity, social media use, and work-related quality of life) and dog-related (pet dog attachment and dog general health) scales from 749 employees. The predominantly female sample was comprised of 243 employees who brought their dog to work (167 = “often” brought dog to work; 76 = “sometimes” brought dog to work), the remaining 506 did not bring their dog to work. Employees who “often” took their dog to work reported higher than average work engagement on all factors (vigor, dedication, absorption, total), with significant differences reported in comparison to those who “sometimes” (vigor and total) and “never” (vigor, dedication, absorption, total) took their dog to work. Turnover intention was also significantly lower and work-based friendship acuity higher in the group of employees who “often,” compared to “never,” took their dog to work. Benefits of bringing your dog to work were also observed in terms of work-related quality of life, with higher scores on general wellbeing, home-work interface, job career-satisfaction, control at work, working conditions, and overall work quality of life in those who “often” compared to “never” take their dog to work. Employees who “never” took their dog to work reported lower use of social media during break times. We also identified factors which may be important to consider in developing dogs-in-the-workplace policies; dog-demographics including weight (i.e., size), breed-type, and training may be important to consider in defining the ideal office dog and deserve further research. Given the need to improve employee wellbeing and satisfaction to promote effective business performance and economic gain, these results have important implications for office based businesses considering allowing dogs in the workplace.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Susannah Hall
- Animal Behaviour, Cognition and Welfare Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Simon Mills
- Animal Behaviour, Cognition and Welfare Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Walsh D, Yamamoto M, Willits NH, Hart LA. Job-Related Stress in Forensic Interviewers of Children with Use of Therapy Dogs Compared with Facility Dogs or No Dogs. Front Vet Sci 2018; 5:46. [PMID: 29594160 PMCID: PMC5857564 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2018.00046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexually abused children providing essential testimony regarding crimes in forensic interviews now sometimes are provided facility dogs or therapy dogs for comfort. Facility dogs are extensively trained to work with forensic interviewers; when using therapy dogs in interviews, volunteers are the dog handlers. Interviews can impact child welfare workers' mental health causing secondary traumatic stress (STS). To investigate this stress, first data were gathered on stress retrospectively for when interviewers initially started the job prior to working with a dog, and then currently, from forensic interviewers using a facility dog, a therapy or pet dog, or no dog. These retrospective and secondary traumatic stress scale (STSS) data compared job stress among interviewers of children using: a certified, workplace facility dog (n = 16), a volunteer's trained therapy dog or the interviewer's pet dog (n = 13/3), or no dog (n = 198). Retrospective scores of therapy dog and no dog interviewers' stress were highest for the first interviewing year 1 and then declined. Extremely or very stressful retrospective scores differed among the three groups in year 1 (p < 0.038), and were significantly elevated for the therapy dog group as compared with the facility dog group (p < 0.035). All interviewing groups had elevated STSS scores; when compared with other healthcare groups that have been studied, sub-scores were especially high for Avoidance: a psychological coping mechanism to avoid dealing with a stressor. STSS scores differed among groups (p < 0.016), primarily due to Avoidance sub-scores (p < 0.009), reflecting higher Avoidance scores for therapy dog users than no dog users (p < 0.009). Facility dog users more consistently used dogs during interviews and conducted more interviews than therapy/pet dog users; both groups favored using dogs. Interviewers currently working with therapy dogs accompanied by their volunteers reported they had experienced heightened stress when they began their jobs; their high stress levels still persisted, indicating lower inherent coping skills and perhaps greater empathy among interviewers who later self-selected to work with therapy dogs. Results reveal extreme avoidant stress for interviewers witnessing children who are suffering and their differing coping approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diane Walsh
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Mariko Yamamoto
- Department of Animal Sciences, Teikyo University of Science, Uenohara, Japan
| | - Neil H Willits
- Statistical Laboratory, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Lynette A Hart
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Binns C, Low WY. Barking Our Way Into the Year of the Dog: Public Health Benefits and Challenges. Asia Pac J Public Health 2018; 30:4-6. [PMID: 29338290 DOI: 10.1177/1010539517753476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Colin Binns
- 1 School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Wah Yun Low
- 2 Research Management Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Binfet JT, Silas HJ, Longfellow SW, Widmaier-Waurechen K. When Veterinarians Support Canine Therapy: Bidirectional Benefits for Clinics and Therapy Programs. Vet Sci 2018; 5:E2. [PMID: 29300348 PMCID: PMC5876570 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci5010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Revised: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper proposes a mutually beneficial model of collaboration between veterinarians and canine therapy programs. Veterinarians and the clinics for whom they work routinely establish collaborations with multiple and varied stakeholders. This might include a laboratory for processing samples and the corresponding courier company needed to deliver samples to the lab or a partnership with a local dog rescue organization for whom discounted rates are offered. One community partnership that stands to benefit both the clinic and the community agency, is for veterinarians to work in tandem with a local canine-assisted therapy program. The benefits to such an alliance are multifold and address aspects of veterinary medicine including client recruitment, community education, and access to a network of devoted dog enthusiasts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John-Tyler Binfet
- Faculty of Education, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Haley J. Silas
- Faculty of Arts & Sciences, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada; (H.J.S.); (S.W.L.); (K.W.-W.)
| | - Sean W. Longfellow
- Faculty of Arts & Sciences, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada; (H.J.S.); (S.W.L.); (K.W.-W.)
| | - Katrina Widmaier-Waurechen
- Faculty of Arts & Sciences, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada; (H.J.S.); (S.W.L.); (K.W.-W.)
| |
Collapse
|