Institute for Human-Animal Connection
The well-being of humans, other species, and the environment are deeply interconnected, from thoughtful human-animal interactions to global biodiversity. Through research focused on mental health and equity and accessible education, the Institute for Human-Animal Connection (IHAC) elevates the value of the living world and the interrelationship of humans, other species and the environment.
Guided by our commitment to social justice, ethics, and cultural responsiveness—and a belief in the power of systemic change—we drive improvements in human-animal-environment interactions. We collaborate and share our expertise with our Colorado community and worldwide, knowing that when we promote healthy human-animal-environment relationships, we improve outcomes for all.
Research into Human-Animal Relationships
We are working to improve the well-being of humans, animals, and the environment through rigorous research and scholarship focused on mental health and equity. Our research aims to understand how interactions with other species and the environment affect individual and community health and well-being, and provides new insights into the relationships between humans, animals, and the environment we share.
IHAC Research
Human-Animal Interactions and Mental Health
This area of our research seeks to understand how interactions with other species affect people’s mental health.
Learn MoreHuman-Animal Interactions and Equity
This area of our research seeks to understand inequity experienced by individuals and families who live with companion animals.
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IHAC Education
Our professional development programs, or IHACPro, focus on helping professionals increase their understanding of animal behavior and human-animal-environment interactions, as well as enhancing their practice working in partnership with animals. We center ethics and animal welfare in all of our educational programs, including professional development certificates, courses, webinars, and the Master of Social Work (MSW) Human-Animal-Environment Interaction certificate.
IHACPro Offerings
Certificates
IHACPro currently offers three certificates for individuals interested in gaining knowledge and skills to ethically integrate animals into their professional practice.
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Courses
IHACPro offers both self-paced and instructor-led courses on various topics in human-animal interactions available to anyone around the globe.
Learn MoreWhat's New at IHAC
Starts August 21
Canine-Assisted Intervention Specialist Certificate Program
The Canine-Assisted Intervention Specialist certificate program provides comprehensive education, training, and practical experience with dogs so you can successfully and ethically incorporate canines into your professional treatment strategies. At the end of our program, you will have a deeper understanding of the needs of your canine partners, you will have practiced training dogs for specific skills helpful in human-animal interactions, and you will have increased knowledge of the ethics and standards involved in working effectively and humanely with dogs in your practice.
This program is 100% online, asynchronous, and led by expert instructors -- join us this August for this once-a-year offering!
IHAC Researches if Pet Dogs Decrease Stress
The Institute for Human-Animal Connection’s study on social stressors found evidence to support the hypothesis that the presence of a pet dog can assist in a healthy stress response. This study was the FIRST of its kind to test levels on multiple physiological systems, allowing us to come to the presumption that dogs may be able to support a balanced, intermediate stress response. Instead of just reducing the stress response, a dog can actually help to maintain balanced stress levels.
IHAC's Impact
30+ Graduate students participate in IHAC research projects yearly.
70 MSW students trained in human-animal-environment interactions annually.
1,300+ People from six continents have participated in IHACPro courses and certificates.