The human-animal connection between donkeys and people and its potential in animal assisted therapy

Kristyna Friolova

Bachelor's thesis

Abstract:

A shift in perspective regarding the use of agricultural animals is much needed to help influence changes in global matters concerning modern humanity. This thesis uses the donkey as an example and starting point to argue that farm animals can be valuable companions instead of just products and highlights the benefits of human-animal connections. The donkey is also depicted as an animal in need of a new role in society, benefiting its conservation and welfare. The thesis begins by introducing the concept of care farming and animal-assisted therapies (AATs) before delving into the potential role of donkeys in such therapies. AATs are acknowledged for their benefits on mental well-being especially in cases of treating children, patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The donkey is recognised for its therapeutic values such as its calm nature, curiosity, patience, and low aggression. High levels of sociability have been found in donkeys used in AAT sessions and their ability to learn and form bonds with humans helped argue their suitability for therapy use. However, research identifying the specific parameters of donkeys used in AATs such as age, sex, and breed is needed to define the ideal donkey for therapeutic use.

Keywords

animal, equine, assisted, therapy, donkey, onotherapy, human-animal, connection, interventions, welfare

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 16. 4. 2023

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 25. 5. 2023
• Supervisor: Mgr. Martina Komárková, Ph.D.
• Reader: Štěpán Zítek, Ing.

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences

Bachelor programme:
Tropical Agriculture