Week 7 - Human Animal Bond

Question 1

Discuss how the comprehension of the human animal bond is important for a successful practicing veterinarian

Answer 1

It is important because the view on animals is changing, there are;
Client expectations - the animal is considered a family member, want compassion with vets that acknowledge this feeling
Morals - Fits in with social change and ethical values

Question 2

Describe the four major behaviour components of Bowlby’s attachment theory

Answer 2

Proximity Maintenance - the desire to be near people we are attached to
Safe Haven - Returning to attachment figure for comfort and safety in the face of a fear or threat
Secure Base - The attachment figure acts as a base of security from which the child can explore the surround environment
Separation distress- anxiety that occurs in the absence of the attachment figure

Question 3

Discuss how the human-animal bond can be explained by attachment theory

Answer 3

attachment theory refers to the processes by which bonds of affection are formed and maintained

e.g. A special emotional relationship involves an exchange of comfort, care and pleasure

Question 4

Discuss how animals may be incorporated into an animals owners’ attachment hierarchy

Answer 4

The attachment hierarchy concept is when multiple attachments are organised in an hierarchical fashion - based on a collection of attachments according to whom the individual prefers to orient attachment behaviours

This can be included to pets, as some owners consider pets to be apart the family, and might even consider them a close counterpart than a sibling/aunt

Question 5

Recall and describe 2 theories (other than attachment theory) tht explain the role of animals in our lives

Answer 5

The role and value of animals

1. . Family development theory - there are certain life cycle stages in families, the role and function of animal is a source of affection in families
2. Social Support theory - is information that leads a person to believe they are cared for, loved, esteemed, valued and a member of a social network, in which pets can provide a form of emotional support to the owner

Question 6

Recall important questions, behaviours and demographics that help differentiate the degree of attachment a person has with their animal

Answer 6

animals are allowed inside, on the bed
live on their own or with non-family members
spends time interacting with their pet
many photos taken

Question 7

What are factors affecting animal behaviour towards people?

Answer 7

1. Our behaviour
2. Genetics - level of curiosity, fearfulness
3. Previous experiences - positive, negative or neutral

Question 8

What theory is paired with farm animals and their handlers

Answer 8

Cognitive dissonance
conflicting view or motivations - unpleasant emotions - change behaviour or attitudes to avoid of over come

e.g. biomedical research animals - justifying it for the greater good

Question 9

What are outliers for HBA

Answer 9

1. Animal abuse
2. Animal neglect - minimal standard care
3. Animal hoarders

Question 10

What skills are needed to complete a consultation?

Answer 10

Interpersonal - assertiveness, conflict resolution, negotiation

Intrapersonal - stress, self-reflection, ethics and morality

Understanding of human animal bond, especially in time of grief and euthanasia

Question 11

What is the general layout for consultations

Answer 11

1. Pre-consultation - history and details from computer
   - Demographics of client
2. During consultation
   - Observation of attachment
   behaviours
   - Questions relevant within the context
   of veterinary consultation
3. Post-consultation
   - Follow-up call