STANDARD COMPETENCIES:

 

 1. Explain the history of human-animal bond (HAB) and how animals have been viewed throughout the ages

 2.  Discuss benefits of pet ownership based on personal experience and in published research

 3.  Describe at least 3 theories that attempt to explain Human-Animal bond (HAB)

 4.  Compare and contrast Animal Assisted Activity (AAA) vs. Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) and identify different current uses of both

 5.  Define and differentiate between Service Animals vs. Therapy Animals vs. (Emotional) Support Animals and identify different uses, trainings, etc.

 6.  Research three or observe one location where therapeutic applications of HAB are currently being practiced. Explain purpose and benefits of the program

 7.  Participate in discussion with guest speakers who are active in providing or using Animal Assisted Activities (AAA) and Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT)

 8.  Discuss end of life as it affect both human and animal and identify local services/options available for end of life care and assistance

 

 

 

 TOPICAL OUTLINE:

 

 I. History of the views of animals and their bonds with people

      a. Animals as teachers, food, beasts of burden, hunters, companions

      b. Animals as Gods, totems, spirit guides

 II. Benefits of pet ownership

      a. What benefits do you get from your pets

      b. What research studies show as benefits

 III. Theories of the Human-Animal Bond (HAB)

      a. Discuss 3 major theories: Social Support Theory, Attachment Theory Biophilia Hypothesis

      b. Discuss minor theories: Role play, Cognitive and Social Cognitive

      c. Be able to identify which theory applies to current HAB activities

 IV. Animal Assisted Activity (AAA) & Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT

      a. Define both AAA and AAT

      b. Be able to identify situations as AAA or AAT correctly

 V. Service Animals vs. Therapy Animals vs. (Emotional) Support Animals

      a. Legal definitions of each

      b. Identify different types of service dogs/animals

      c. Current laws for service animal

      d. Proper etiquette when meeting working service animals

      e. Should all three types have ‘special’ rights or different levels of privileges

 VI. Research 3 or observe one therapeutic applications of HAB

      a. Research 3 different organizations currently using AAA or AAT write paper describing program

      b. Visit and observe AAA or AAT at a local organization, write paper describing program and observations of interactions

 VII. Guest speakers of organizations that work with and of those who use AAA or  AAT

      a. Actively listen and interact with guest

      b. Write reflection of speaker include theories and definitions that apply to the presentation

 VIII. End of life

      a. List organizations locally available to help with end of life

      b. Possible emotional effects from losing a pet or emotional effects for the pet who losses an owner

      c. How to help those who are experiencing loss