Project: Companion Animals and Human Health
Award Update: This project was funded under the HEST Grand Challenge competition with an award amount of $30,993 for the animal companion grant.
Project Overview:
Funding Request: $25,000
This interdisciplinary pilot study examines how companion animals can improve the mental health of early childhood HeadStart and university lab school teachers and staff. By incorporating animals into daily routines, the study seeks to uncover benefits such as reduced stress and improved well-being.
Collaboration:
This project involves experts from New Mexico State University (NMSU) and Colorado State University in education, school psychology, and human-animal interaction.
Research Approach:
Using a mixed-methods approach, the study includes:
- Qualitative Surveys: Collecting personal experiences on animal interactions.
- Saliva Collection: Measuring cortisol levels in humans and dogs to assess stress.
- Technology Integration: Using Fitbits and other devices to monitor real-time stress indicators.
Objectives:
The study aims to provide valuable insights into the mental health benefits of companion animals in educational settings, supporting strategies to improve educator well-being and enhancing the learning environment.
This research contributes to the field of human-animal interaction by emphasizing mental health support in education and informing policies to integrate companion animals for educator wellness.
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Education: B.S., Animal Science, University of Alberta, 1989
M.S., Animal Reproduction, University of Alberta, 1992
Ph.D., Physiology, North Carolina State University, 1996
Courses Taught: ANSC 112 Companion Animals in Society ANSC 285 Companion Animal Management ANSC 311 Companion Animal Behavior and Training ANSC 312V Companion Animals and the Human-Animal Bond ANSC 390 Internship ANSC 412 Companion Animal Health and Diseases ANSC 448.
Problems Research/Academic: Evaluating if breed characteristics and stereotypes influence peoples choice of dog as a companion animal. Other interests include the physiological effects of the human-companion animal bond. Physiological and psychological benefits of Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) and Animal Assisted Activities (AAA).
