Elizabeth Ormerod

The nomenclature used to describe animals working in roles supporting people can be confusing. The same term may be used to describe different roles, or two terms may mean the same thing. This confusion is evident among researchers, practitioners, and end users. Because certain animal roles are provided with legal protections and/or government-funding support in some jurisdictions, it is necessary to clearly define the existing terms to avoid confusion. The aim of this paper is to provide operationalized definitions for nine terms, which would be useful in many world regions: “assistance animal”, “companion animal”, “educational/school support animal”, “emotional support animal”, “facility animal”, “service animal”, “skilled companion animal”, “therapy animal”, and “visiting/visitation animal”. At the International Society for Anthrozoology (ISAZ) conferences in 2018 and 2020, over 100 delegates participated in workshops to define these terms, many of whom co-authored this paper. Th...

... At Purdy Prison women are taught how to rehabilitate unwanted dogs with behaviour problems. Becoming a good dog trainer requires the development of patience, careful observation, calm assertiveness and knowing how to effect change through praise, not punishment. ...

Violence towards animals and violence towards people are often interconnected problems, and as such, this phenomenon has been termed the Link. Violence towards animals is a strong predictor that the abuser may inflict violence on people. However, it must not be assumed this is always the case. Professionals treating an animal or a human patient/client who has been subjected to abuse are uniquely situated to act in the role of ‘first responders’ when they suspect or recognize animal abuse, human abuse, or family violence. To more fully understand the Link the authors introduce Bronfenbrenner’s bioecological systems model through which to examine the complexity of the problem. Using data from earlier studies in which they interviewed police officers, other law enforcers, veterinarians, social workers, and community and family members, the authors discuss the correlation between animal cruelty and family violence. Furthermore, they examine how Bronfenbrenner’s bioecological systems mod...

Better understanding of the human-companion animal bond (HCAB) has resulted in a number of initiatives to help people with diverse health and social needs. The authors of this article trace the history of the HCAB, and discuss current programmes and key ...

We are currently experiencing a paradigm shift in attitudes to companion animals, in part due to our greater understanding of the health and social benefits associated with the human-animal bond (HAB). Recent demographic changes, including smaller family size, increased longevity, and a higher incidence of relationship breakdown, have resulted in a greater dependence on pets for companionship and social support. It is therefore important for the veterinary profession to understand the HAB, keep abreast of knowledge in this field, and apply research findings to help our clients, their companion animals, and the wider society in which we live. How can veterinarians incorporate the HAB into their practices for the benefit of people and animals, and what are the effects of using a bond-centered approach? This article addresses this question, and arises from the experience of a veterinarian who introduced a bond-centered approach to her practice in the United Kingdom over 20 years ago.

... AAT is directed by a Companion animals Elizabeth Ormerod Chair,The Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS) Feature Page 2. ... Social Indicators Research 1-11. Hingley AT and Ruggeri L (1998) Alzheimer's. FDA Consumer 32 (3), 26-31. Medscape. 2000, March 23rd. ...