Oh….How we love our pets!! Phyllis Erdman, Ph.D. Executive Associate Dean for Academic Affairs (and animal lover) College of Education and friends

Who could not love that?

We write about them….

We try to figure them out

We ask….Do they really have emotions?

Roles of pets in history Chinese legend – over 2500 years ago Egypt – honored cats and dogs Greek/Roman empires – hunters, herders, pets Peru – valued as shepherds

The sad side Abuse of pets led to laws to protect them

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Our mission, as stated by founder Henry Bergh, is “to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States.” The ASPCA works to rescue animals from abuse, pass humane laws and share resources with shelters nationwide.

Progressive Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) Champion for animals—rehabilitating injured and orphaned wildlife, sheltering and adopting homeless cats and dogs, and educating people to make a better world for animals and people.

American Human Society The mission.... is to ensure the welfare, wellness and well-being of children and animals, and to unleash the full potential of the bond between humans and animals to the mutual benefit of both.

How do we show our love 79% of families with children have pets 30% of older people living alone have pets 65% of cats/39% of dogs sleep in family bed 80% of people with allergies refuse to give up pets

70% acquired new pets after death of pet 87% include pets in holiday celebrations 52% prepare special needs 53% take time off work to care for sick pet 44% take pets to work

Transitions Owners companions/guardians Dominance based reward based Coercive training positive reinforcement

Why do we love them? Physiological and psychological benefits lower heart rate increased exercise lowered stress increased recovery from surgery decreased depression increased social interaction happier and better people/improves our lives

Emotional benefits Forgiving Accepting Genuine Unconditional love Facilitate human socialization Better integeration – persons with disabilities Veterans – healing PTSD Give purpose

Therapeutic Benefits Animal assisted activities Animal assisted therapy Equine facilitated psychotherapy Equine facilitated learning Equine facilitated activities Service animals Emotional support animals/comfort animals Guide dogs

Therapeutic Roles of Animals Animal Assisted Therapy

Other Roles Canine companion and assistance dogs 017/k.2900/Canine_Companions_Assistance_Do gs.htm

Helping with Autism OnBHXKiU OnBHXKiU

Wounded Warriors Programs Q

Equine programs Therapeutic Riding Equine facilitated psychotherapy Equine facilitate growth and learning programs PATH, International EAGALA

And then…we have to say goodbye

Pet Loss and Society Death denial and ramifications Disenfranchised grief No formalized support or education

Pet Loss Hotline - WSU h/pet-loss-hotline

Best Friends MjUC4f9k MjUC4f9k