Co-Chairs: Rachel Zielinski, LCSW-R, CASAC-M, and Stephanie Coco, LMSW

The Human-Animal Bond Special Interest Group honors the transformative healing power of animals and elevates ways that animals can be considered and included in social work practice. Research over the years shows an increased understanding of how and why integrating animals into the therapeutic experience enhances outcomes.

The group operates as a work group achieving a community feel where people can both network and learn from each other. It promotes and brings visibility to the unique ways social workers can practice in settings that include or consider animals as a vital component of the lives and well-being of the humans they work with.