Promoting positive human-animal interaction: the role of the social worker in the multidisciplinary team

Abstract

Social Work is identified as one of 23 disciplines involved in the study field of human-animal interaction. The therapeutic and developmental value of positive interaction with companion animals has been extensively researched since the early eighties. Social Work focuses on, among other things, the bond between people and their environment. More than half of all families have one or more companion animals, which makes animals an important part of the environment.
Social Work also strives to improve the quality of life of the community. Companion animals can fulfil different needs for different target groups and are therefore important role players in the pursuit of a better quality of life for individuals, groups and communities. The role of the social worker in the multidisciplinary team can be divided into five main areas: the aim of social work intervention, the roles of the social worker, target groups in Social Work, the needs of people, and
approaches towards rendering aid. Recommendations are made by which the social worker can promote positive human-animal interaction through multidisciplinary co-operation.