Dogs and Humans: Why Has This Bond Been so Long-Lasting?
Catherine Sanderson is the Poler Family Professor and former Chair of Psychology at Amherst College and is often cited as the school’s most popular professor. Her research has received grant funding from the National Science Foundation and the National Institute of Health. She has published over 25 journal articles in addition to three college textbooks. In 2012, she was named one of the country’s “Top 300 Professors” by the Princeton Review.
Overview
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), nearly 80 million dogs are owned as pets in the United States. It is unclear when dogs were first domesticated, between 20,000–40,000 years ago, but it’s clear that humans and dogs have shared a special bond of friendship and mutual support ever since the Neolithic period, at least. But why has this bond been so long-lasting?
Dogs, often hailed as humans’ best friends, have been the topic of many scientific studies addressing how they might boost our well-being–making us happier, more resilient when facing stress, and physically healthier. In this presentation, Professor Sanderson will explain how your friendly pup can benefit your health across the board.
Excellent review of the research which addresses the attachment between dogs and humans.