The Role of Animal-Assisted Interventions in Anti-Oppressive Social Work Practice

Abstract

This study uses qualitative methodology to explore the research question: ‘What role can animal-assisted interventions play in anti-oppressive social work practice?’ A review of relevant literature has shown that, while animal-assisted interventions (AAI) have been demonstrated over time to have many benefits for service users, these types of interventions remain neglected by social work scholarship, and the relationship between AAI and anti-oppressive practice (AOP) has yet to be explored through research. This study supports findings that AAI practitioners have found their approaches to be congruent with an AOP approach to social work practice. Data which support this finding are presented and three themes are considered: theoretical congruencies, barriers and benefits, and novelty. Following this study, it is recommended that AOP practitioners consider using AAI in their practice, and it is suggested that social service organisations need to consider relationships between humans and other animals in developing policies.