Children and the Human-Animal Bond: Minimizing Pet Loss During Disasters

Chapter
First Online:
Part of the Educating the Young Child book series (EDYC, volume 8)

Abstract

The importance of companion animals to humans, particularly children, has long been accepted. Pets help reduce stress and promote better health, both physically and mentally. In traumatic times, this becomes even more important, providing a link to stability when other aspects of daily life may seem to be beyond individual control. Research and personal stories have demonstrated the value of this relationship repeatedly, leading to the formation of organizations designed to protect companion animals in times of difficulty. This chapter will summarize research into the human-animal bond, especially in children, as a limitation and as an advantage in disaster situations and will provide a brief list of preparedness measures for individuals and communities to help protect both humans and animals.

Keywords

Disaster preparedness Human-animal bond Responsible pet ownership Companion animals Pet loss 
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Copyright information

© Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht 2014

Authors and Affiliations

  1. 1.Biology DepartmentIndiana University of PennsylvaniaIndianaUSA

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