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Human-Animal Bond

American Humane's Human-Animal Bond Division examines and addresses the complex relationships -- both positive and negative -- between people and animals. Through our programs, we advance society's understanding of the power and the implications of those relationships. We promote humane values and the beneficial aspects of human-animal interaction. And we work to understand the causes of -- and thus prevent -- cruelty, abuse and neglect.

The Human-Animal Bond encompasses four key program areas relating to human-animal interaction:

Animal-Assisted Therapy

Animal-Assisted Therapy applies one of the strongest benefits of the human-animal bond -- the power to heal. Our teams of handlers and therapy animals provide positive interactions that enhance the lives of children and adults in a variety of settings, including hospitals and schools.

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TASK Program

The Therapy Animals Supporting Kids (TASK)™ Program encourages the use of therapy animals to help children who have been abused, neglected or witnessed violence. Incorporating a therapy animal into sessions with children who have been traumatized can help them open up and promote the healing process.

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The Link®

The Link® addresses the negative aspects of human-animal relationships -- the connection between violence to people and violence to animals. Our work in better understanding The Link and informing others about it is helping to break the cycle of violence.

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Humane Education

Humane Education is another way we are making strides in preventing abuse and encouraging compassion. Educators, the public and students of all ages benefit from a range of workshops and resources that teach humane lessons that foster empathy and respect for others.

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PAWS Program

The Pets and Women's Shelters (PAWS)® Program works with domestic violence shelters to allow women to bring their pets with them. This enables the women and their children to keep their pets safe and benefit from the comfort of their company as they make a major life change together.

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Our work to better understand the complexities of the human-animal bond, and our efforts to promote the positive aspects of that powerful bond, are helping to create a more humane and caring society.

Teachers:
Download Our New Humane Education Lesson Plans

American Humane is pleased to introduce a series of informative, downloadable lesson plans designed to help educators incorporate current humane education topics into their everyday curricula.

Find out more…

Ascione Installed as American Humane Endowed Chair

Frank R. Ascione, Ph.D.

In October 2009, Frank Ascione, Ph.D., became the first person to hold the position of American Humane Endowed Chair at the University of Denver’s Graduate School of Social Work, to explore the field of animal-assisted interventions and research the bond between people and animals. Learn more.