Human Services
Animal Assisted Wellness - Courses
Required Courses | CREDITS | |||||
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AN | 216 | Animal Human Bond | 3 | |||
The human animal bond is an essential component of utilizing animals in therapeutic and educational settings. This course covers the history of the human animal bond, the physiological and psychological components of the human animal bond, and the benefits the human animal bond provides to both humans and animals. As well, an understanding of animal welfare and ethical considerations involved when animals are used for and with humans is covered. | ||||||
AN | 217 | Animal Behaviour and Handling | 3 | |||
This course covers the normal development of behaviour and how animals learn new behaviours. Recognition of different breeds of animals and their differing characteristics is also discussed. As well, the content covers the correct restraint methods that should be used when working with both small and large animals. |
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AN | 219 | Animal Wellness and Treatment | 3 | |||
Individuals who work with animals should have a basic understanding of the health issues that can occur. This course covers common diseases in dogs, cats, rabbits, alpacas, donkeys and horses for the Animal Assisted Wellness student. The emphasis is on prevention of disease and disease transmission, as well as an understanding of diseases which are contagious to other animals, or potentially humans. The course also discusses the husbandry needs of the above species, including an overview of nutrition. | ||||||
AN | 223 | Integration of Animals into Settings | 3 | |||
This course provides an in-depth understanding of how to ethically and effectively integrate animals into 3 different types of settings. The 3 settings include: 1. Working as a mental health therapist with animals in an office setting, 2. Working in an educational setting and 3. Working in rehabilitation centres/facilities. Prerequisite: AN 224 | ||||||
AN | 224 | Animals in Practice | 3 | |||
This course provides detailed information about the many ways animals are currently being partnered with people to help them. Also about the animals' proper titles depending on the type of work they are doing. The common species of animals typically partnered with in AAI are discussed as well as details about their language and behaviour and things you are expected to know if partnering with them in your work. How to choose a wellness or intervention animal is discussed as well as the process of having it screened and certified to work with you. The general ethics of handling animals in practice are addressed. Prerequisite: LA 247. | ||||||
YC | 203 | Counselling Techniques | 3 | |||
This course is designed to provide students with an overview of the helping/counselling profession through the use of lectures, readings, class discussions and experiential activities. The focus is on developing and enhancing the necessary skills to interview individuals on a one-to-one basis. The course also focuses on the helping process, stages of counselling, basic counselling skills, counselling theories, practical application of theory, ethical issues, values, caregiver stress, burnout and self care. Students explore their own values and beliefs and how these impact the helping relationship. Prerequisite: HS 242 & YC 102. | ||||||
HS | 242 | Interpersonal Relationships | 3 | |||
This course is designed to develop interpersonal communication skills individually and in group situations as they pertain to the field of Human Services. It examines self-esteem and interpersonal relationship resolution skills needed for working with individuals and groups, families and colleagues. | ||||||
HS | 299 | Clinical Experience | 3 | |||
Practicum Placement Requirements
It's your responsibility to meet all the requirements set out by the practicum agencies. This includes immunization, criminal record checks, or vulnerable sector checks before you start your practicum. |
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LA | 247 | Law and Ethics of Animal Assisted Interventions | 3 | |||
This course provides an in-depth understanding of the current laws and ethics of Animal Assisted Interventions (AAIs) necessary for best practices in AAI. Animal assisted practitioners require a thorough understanding of the laws, ethical standards and requirements necessary to ensure safe and ethical human-animal therapeutic interactions. Prerequisite: YC 218. | ||||||
YC | 218 | Animal Assisted Interventions | 3 | |||
Animal Assisted Interventions is a unique and growing field in working with children, youth and families. This course explores why animals are currently being recognized as effective people helpers. An overview of the different ways animals have been helping people throughout history is provided with an in depth look at their role in assisting people in need. Students should take this course to gain a better understanding of the human-animal bond and the benefits animals can provide to people in need. Prerequisite: Background or current study in a Human Services profession. | ||||||
CREDITS | ||||||
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