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
January 28
Human–Animal Connections in Suicide Prevention: Insights and Practical Pathways
Licensed clinical social worker, Hannah Van Buiten, will explore how human-animal interactions can play a meaningful role in suicide prevention efforts. This webinar will discuss current understandings of how animals impact known suicide risk, protective factors, and practical guidance for incorporating human-animal interactions to prevent suicide and enhance wellbeing.
Earn 1 CE / 1 clock hour for attending!
- 5 PM - 6 PM MT
- Zoom
February 25
Green Chimneys: The Evolution of a Nature-Based Program
Since 1947, Green Chimneys has operated an education and therapeutic program for children with special needs on a farm surrounded by nature and hundreds of animal species. For over 20 years, Kristin Licardi (Chief Clinical Officer) and Michael Kaufmann (Vice President of Nature Based Programs) have worked to continually adapt and evolve best practices for the current student population and a large number of farm animals, equines, dogs, and wildlife.
In this seminar, learn how research data gathered over a decade-long relationship with the Institute for Human-Animal Connection informs the current program and strategic directions at Green Chimneys. Kristin and Michael will share perspectives and illustrate how theory and practice inform each other in a model program that continually strives to improve.
- 11 AM Mountain Time
- Community Room 120 or virtually via Zoom
Human Engagement in Animal Welfare and Sheltering Orientation Course
We have a brand new online course available with NO eligibility requirements! Complete coursework entirely on your own time.
Designed for animal welfare and shelter workers, you will dive into the knowledge and skills you may need to successfully engage community members and colleagues. Topics such as mindset, implicit bias, trust-building, facilitating psychological safety, positionality, and empowerment are reviewed in the context of culturally responsive community engagement in animal welfare.
IHAC Featured in The Conversation
Our research has been featured in The Conversation, an independent news organization that platforms academics and researchers like us to share our evidence-based findings with a broad, global audience.
IHAC research staff Jaci Gandenberger and Dr. Kevin Morris discuss how our companion dogs may do more than just reduce stress; they can actually help keep us in a healthy zone of stress response.
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.