Using the discussion board, respond to the prompt below which was provided by the author, Mark Cushing.

 To qualify for full credit for each week’s discussion, please make 1 substantive “original” posting per prompt. Please make them at least 200 words each. And, make a minimum of 2 substantive replies to classmates spread over 2 different days (2 each day), at least 100 words each. Then respond to at least one person who responded to you.   

Post 1

Without the studies and research that attempts to quantify how and why animals make us healthier, contributing to an increase in our wellbeing, we have known that pets make us more human for a long time if not from the beginning of time. We live in a world though that asks us to prove that what we know is truly factual so I think that anytime we are able to quantity the measurable effects on our lives, both personally and professionally, the better. Much research has already been done, “filling nine-thousand entries at the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI at Purdue University, (pg.113). The question is not that animals perform an endless count of services for us and that we rely on both the attributes inherent in each animal but a great deal of our food supply originates from animals, both live and as a result of the loss of their lives, the questions then rests with understanding the economic impact and dependence we have on animals to make the case for their survival and later, which I believe will happen, rights afforded to animals because they too have emotional intelligence. 

Critics argue that in some studies, since sample size was not adequate to establish a human animal bond and bias has to be factored in any scientific study, there is not enough evidence to establish a link. Such reluctance requires that animal services in general use data and are able to cite research especially as budgets become constrained on the county level and coalitions are relied upon to bring in additional funding. Making a solid case, both emotionally, intellectually and scientifically with local businesses and others showing how local interests are served, funds used appropriately and effectively. I think too, animal services will continue to branch out into activities that service more specific animal groups, people who rely on service animals will need more specialized support. In fact, this year’s legislature agenda includes a bill that continues to recognize “support animals”, 

https://le.utah.gov/~2020/bills/static/HJR006.html (Links to an external site.)

 .

This additional bill provides parameters for “euthanasia” but does not prevent the destruction of healthy, adoptable animals after five days of being in a shelter 

https://le.utah.gov/~2020/bills/static/HB0446.html (Links to an external site.)

 . It does not mention any “no-kill” resolutions, or percentage goals related to lifesaving. This bill is another example of how what happens at the state level may not reflect what is actually happening and depending on the community, may be meeting or exceeding minimum standards established by legislation. 

In the middle of a pandemic, I have seen news reports featuring dogs that have been trained to detect a person’s exposure to Covid. They are currently unable to state unequivocally  that these dogs can detect each and every case, it is however, another example of the amazing ability of dogs to smell and sense a variety of conditions in humans. 

Post 2

This chapter was a really fun read for me and it gave great insight on a topic that I wanted to learn more about. I’ve always thought that the bond that humans and animals have was fascinating and went well beyond the stats, but I definitely learned a few things throughout the reading that I hadn’t seen before. It’s fascinating how much research has been done on the human-animal bond, and there’s no doubt that studies will continue to take place (and for good reason). I certainly believe that animals will take on an even larger role in the future in American communities.

I like how this chapter mentioned a variety of animals and presented various studies done relating to the animal human bond. I really enjoyed the studies regarding training horses as part of a therapy program, and the stress reduction and companionship relation between dogs and cats and autistic children or adults. The general outlook on pets helping humans has definitely changed over the years, thanks to studies and personal experiences people have had with their pets. Along with pets in our everyday lives making people happy, animals are also a part of many treatment programs at hospitals. After reading about therapy dogs helping those in need, dogs detecting low blood sugar, fish helping with feeding schedules, etc., it’s clear that pets are having an impact on humans health and it’s being noticed and utilized throughout America.

I have had so many great experiences with pets throughout my life, and I know many people who can say the same. Having a pet has helped me form bonds with other people and their pets and has led to some great friendship. Along with that, my dog has definitely made me and my family’s life happier and healthier. I’m excited to continue seeing studies on the human animal bond and watching the impact it has throughout the world..