Dr Clare Thomas-Pino, a Senior Lecturer and Programme Manager (BSc (Hons) Human-Animal Interaction with Psychology) at Hartpury University, has accepted invitations to become a Member of the Board of Directors at the Horses and Humans Research Foundation (HHRF) and a Member of the Board of Trustees for the Society of Companion Animal Studies (SCAS).
Her dedication and expertise in the field of Animal-Assisted Services (AAS), human-animal interaction and animal welfare make her a valuable addition to these boards. Additionally, both organisations bring together experts in the field of human-animal interaction and AAS, many of whom are invited to Hartpury University as guest speakers, bringing their expertise into the classroom.
The HHRF, an American-headquartered organisation, is focused on advancing knowledge of the interaction between horses and humans to improve the health and wellbeing of both species. Dr Thomas-Pino’s role as a Member of the Board of Directors will contribute to the foundation’s mission of building evidence-based practices that enhance welfare and wellbeing through research and collaborations. Dr Thomas-Pino is already Chair of the Horses and Humans Research Foundation's Scientific Advisory Council, a group of leading researchers and experts from equine-assisted activities and related fields.
The SCAS is committed to studying the human-animal bond to enhance the quality of life for both people and companion animals. SCAS’s One Health approach, which involves multi-disciplinary work, aims to address societal issues and promote animal welfare throughout evidence-based research and grants.
These appointments continue to strengthen the calibre of content Dr Thomas-Pino and her fellow lecturers convey within the modules in the BSc (Hons) Human-Animal Interaction with Psychology and MSc (and Postgraduate Diploma) Animal Assisted Counselling with Psychotherapy degree programmes. At the undergraduate level, these include Animals in Education, Contemporary Issues in Anthrozoology, and Animal Assisted Interventions. At the postgraduate level, these include Integrating Humans, Animals and the Environment into Counselling, and Animal Assisted Counselling and Psychotherapy in Practice. All Hartpury University Animal students learn about the latest information related to research and international guidelines for best practice.
Reflecting on her appointments, Dr Thomas-Pino said: “It’s a privilege to be a part of these exceptional organisations, who recognise the need for collaboration between researchers and practitioners in AAS. Both organisations work to share best practices and research findings, enhancing the welfare and wellbeing of both animals and humans in AAS, while recognising the immense value animals have in so many people’s lives. I’m also excited about the impact these appointments will have on the teaching and learning experience within the undergraduate and postgraduate programmes I teach.”
There’s still time to study Animal at Hartpury University in 2024/25
It’s not too late to study the exciting BSc (Hons) Human-Animal Interaction with Psychology degree this autumn. You can apply through Clearing for this degree or one of our other Animal and environment-related undergraduate degrees including BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Welfare, BSc (Hons) Veterinary Biosciences, and BSc (Hons) Environmental Science. Explore all of our undergraduate and postgraduate Animal courses via our website.
