Multicultural Considerations in Animal-Assisted Intervention

Abstract

Abstract Attitudes towards non-human animals and the conceptualization of the human-animal bond varies across cultures and population groups, thereby making it a crucial consideration in the field of animal-assisted intervention (AAI). The growing expansion of AAI practice to multicultural populations within and outside the US and Europe, necessitates a greater emphasis on the cultural considerations and implications involved. In this context, the present paper attempts to explore select examples of AAI practice outside the US and Europe, namely in South America with a specific focus on Brazil and in East and South-East Asia with a specific focus on Japan, India, and China. The paper also proposes a model for a greater incorporation of multicultural considerations in AAI encompassing the spheres of research, education, and practice, thus drawing from and expanding on current recommendations in the field.