Humans interact with animals in many walks of life. In situations in which these interactions are close and frequent, the quality of these interactions may have considerable consequences for either partner. For example, keeping pets is common in most households. The potential benefits for humans include promoting the development of social competency and responsibility in children (Edney, 1992) and providing companionship, love and affection for children and adults (Leslie et al., 1994). While domestication of pets has generally provided these animals with obvious benefits such as food, good health, protection and shelter, little is known of the effects of human– animal interactions on pets themselves. Perhaps surprisingly, more is known of the effects of human– animal interactions on farm animals.

1. Adult 338
2. Animal welfare 6325
3. Birds 940
4. Dairy cows 470
5. Domestication 138
6. Health 529
7. Wild animals 356