This quarterly workgroup is a space for social workers and students interested in the intersection of human and animal well-being. Whether you're experienced or exploring the field, all are welcome to join the conversation and shape this emerging area of social work.

Want to learn more about other ways you can get involved with NASW-MI? Then visit our Committees and Workgroups webpages!

Join the Workgroup

If you are interested in participating in this workgroup, please complete the NASW-MI Human-Animal Bond in Social Work Interest Group registration form.

To join an upcoming meeting, visit the NASW-MI Events Calendar. The Human-Animal Bond in Social Work Interest Group meets on the first Tuesdays of January, April, July, and October from 11:00am-12:00pm.

About the Workgroup

Animals play a vital role in human lives - whether as beloved companions, therapeutic supports, or highly trained service animals. As interest grows in the intersection of social work and human-animal relationships, NASW-Michigan created this work group to focus on this emerging area of practice.

Topics of discussion may include:

• The biological, psychological, and social benefits of human-animal interactions
• Animal-assisted interventions in therapeutic settings
• Compassion fatigue, ethics, and risks in animal-related practice
• The link between animal and human violence
• The role of companion animals across the life course