HAPI Articles

Welcome to the Human-Animal Partnerships and Interactions (HAPI) Lab research summaries. Here, you’ll find accessible overviews of our work exploring the powerful connections between humans and animals.

Our studies focus on human-canine and human-equine partnerships, examining their biopsychosocial impacts through a mixed-methods approach. From understanding how animal-assisted interventions can support individuals and families facing trauma to exploring the mutual benefits of these interactions for both people and animals, our research seeks to enhance the effectiveness and well-being of these partnerships.

A Helmet That Fits: Making Equine-Assisted Services Safer for Participants

A study shows how poorly fitting equestrian helmets can limit access to equine-assisted services and participant safety.

Advancing Human-Animal Interaction Research

Explore the vital role of collaboration between researchers and practitioners in human-animal interaction (HAI), enhancing scientific rigor and real-world impact through trust, ethical practices, and shared expertise.

Anthropomorphizing in Equine-Facilitated Learning and Psychotherapy

Anthropomorphizing in equine-facilitated learning and psychotherapy can aid human healing but may misrepresent horse behavior; a 2025 study urges therapists to use critical reflexivity to balance empathy with accurate equine understanding, ensuring ethical and effective EFL/P practices.

Are Service Dogs the Support Veterans with PTSD Expect?

Discover how service dogs impact U.S. military veterans with PTSD, from mental health benefits to challenges, and the gap between expectations and real-life experiences.

Can Animals Help Military Families Thrive?

Explore how animal-assisted interventions, including equine-assisted services and service dogs, support military families by improving emotional connections, resilience, and communication amidst unique challenges.

Can Furry Coworkers Improve Mental Health at Work?

Explore how dogs at work boost employee well-being, reduce stress, and build community—plus tips for making pet-friendly policies work.

Can Pets Save Lives? How Our Furry Friends Might Help Prevent Suicide

A scoping review of 30 studies examines how pets may influence suicide risk, highlighting their potential as sources of emotional support and purpose while also noting situations where pet-related stress, loss, or barriers can increase vulnerability.

Do Psychiatric Service Dogs Improve Sleep for the Partners of Veterans with PTSD?

Discover how psychiatric service dogs impact the sleep quality of partners of veterans with PTSD in this insightful study.

Exploring Canine-Assisted Interactions for Children with ADHD

Discover how canine-assisted interventions, paired with cognitive behavioral therapy, enhance social skills in children with ADHD, fostering better human interactions and engagement.