Ep 35, 1/2: Anthrozoological Insights with Dr Aubrey Fine, 1/2 #35 Pt1

Welcome to Episode 35 of the Anthrozoology Podcast. In this episode, we explore companion-animal - human connections, psychology, and interventions with renowned psychologist and anthrozoologist, Dr Aubrey Fine. Dr. Fine shares his career inspiration, challenges, and research interests in companion-animal-assisted therapy.

He recounts his personal journey from a fear of companion-animals to working with them in therapy, combining clinical work, writing, and research in companion-animal-assisted interventions since the mid-1960s. Dr. Fine discusses using animals for therapy and communication with children, highlighting the introduction of his first pet, a gerbil named Sasha, to a program for children with learning disabilities in 1973. Dr Fine describes the diverse range of companion-animals he works with, from dogs to lizards, and emphasizes the importance of respecting all as sentient beings. He shares personal stories, such as his connection with a bearded dragon named Spikey, who helped children with similar challenges. The episode also addresses the significance of companion-animal welfare, education, and agency, with Dr. Fine stressing the importance of recognising the non-verbal cues of companion-animals and respecting their boundaries. Please subscribe to get notified about our next podcast!

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To access audio versions please our official Website: https://anthrozoopod.wixsite.com/anthrozoopod Podlet Guest Dr Aubrey Fine email: [email protected] Websites: https://www.aubreyhfine.com/ PodCrew Dr. Kris Hill https://academiccatlady.com/ Dr. Michelle Szydlowski [email protected] www.internationalelephants.org @intl_elephants Sarah Oxley Heaney PhD Candidate, University of Exeter [email protected] ​ www.kissingsharks.com/ N.B. Copyright of image behind Sarah in the video is held by Cristina Zenato. References ​​Fine, A.H. et al. (2023) The Routledge International Handbook of Human-Animal Interactions and Anthrozoology, The Routledge International Handbook of Human-Animal Interactions and Anthrozoology. Routledge. Available at: https://doi.org/10.4324/9781032153346. Fine, A.H. (2014) Our Faithful Companions - Exploring the essence of our kinship with animals. Alpine Pubns Inc. Available at: https://www.aubreyhfine.com/faithful-companion. Fine, A.H. (2019) ‘Handbook on Animal-Assisted Ther