Introduction to Human-Animal Interaction

Introduction to HumanAnimal Interaction focuses on the human dimension of interacting with other animals. This book introduces recent developments, theories and debates in the relatively new research area of humananimal interaction (HAI) and focuses on the social and life sciences aspect of these interactions. Experts from different academic disciplines provide an overview for students and professionals interested in how humans and other animals interact, and what advantages and disadvantages emerge for both parties in this relationship. The book starts with the theories and mechanisms supporting our interactions with animals, such as humananimal communication, and it then covers the implications of HAI in terms of ethics and welfare. After discussing cultural differences and forensic aspects in HAI (e.g., wildlife crime and animal abuse), the book examines evidence in the area of animal-assisted intervention. The final chapters give an overview of current research in specific humananimal interaction systems: humanpet, humanlivestock and humanwildlife interaction. The book offers a scientific, evidence-based perspective on humananimal interaction, providing pedagogical tools to make a systematic, critical and constructive evaluation of research in HAI possible. It offers a range of in-text pedagogical features like a subject index, chapter MCQs, open questions, further reading and additional digital resources including videos which are accessible via QR codes or through the associated website. This textbook provides the fundamental tools for achieving a comprehensive, current and critical overview of the HAI field and is an integral text for undergraduate and postgraduate students undertaking modules in humananimal interaction, in social sciences such as anthropology, cultural studies, criminology, ethics and laws, or in life sciences such as animal behaviour, conservation and welfare, biology, neuroscience, physiology, psychology, public health and those studying veterinary science.