Human Animal Science

Human Animal Science is a regular podcast hosted by Tim Adams and Mia Cobb that takes a scientific view of the world of humans and animals.

Human Animal Science, also known as anthrozoology, is a growing multidisciplinary field of enquiry, and one that produces fascinating topics.

Recent podcasts, articles, and research

Understanding aggressive behaviour in dogs

Aggressive behaviour in dogs: science that bites

Human Animal ScienceMar 13, 20142 min read

Dr Rachel Casey is a veterinary surgeon, animal behaviourist and welfare scientist working at the University of Bristol Veterinary School in the United Kingdom. Rachel has a PhD in animal behaviour and leads a research group investigating aspects of companion animal behaviour and welfare. Her recent research on aggressive behaviour in dogs has highlighted important new […]

Free Roaming Cats Part 2

Free roaming cats: attack of the unknowns

Human Animal ScienceFeb 24, 20141 min read

In Part 2 (catch up on Part 1 here) of our conversation with Mark Farnworth of Unitec Institute of Technology in Auckland, New Zealand, we learn what the scientific research can tell us about the success of methods to control…

Mark Farnsworth - Free roaming cats

Free roaming cats: a phantom menace?

Human Animal ScienceFeb 11, 20141 min read

Mark Farnworth, from the Department of Natural Sciences at Unitec Institute of Technology in Auckland, New Zealand, is curious about cats. Cats as pets and cats as pests. Are cats a threat to biodiversity or are they possible caretakers of…

Animal Hoarding

Animal hoarding: a complex mess

Human Animal ScienceJan 28, 20141 min read

Dr Kersti Seksel, registered specialist in veterinary behaviour medicine and behavioural science major in human psychology, explains the complicated and sensitive topic of animal hoarding. This issue is difficult to research and complex to resolve, but help is available. Find…

Helping children with autism

Helping children with autism: the unlikely heroes

Human Animal ScienceJan 13, 20142 min read

Maggie O’Haire returns to Human Animal Science to discuss her innovative research (based at the University of Queensland) helping children with autism with assistance from some unassuming guinea pigs. Maggie is currently completing her PhD and is Project Director for an NICHD-WALTHAM funded…


Brought to you by:

The Australian Anthrozoology Research Foundation

The Australian Anthrozoology Research Foundation is a registered charity that funds research into the relationship between animals and humans.

Their mission is to promote the understanding and humane treatment of animals by supporting scientific research that explores the positive effects of their companionship on human health and well-being. They believe that this understanding can help us to create a better world for both animals and people.

Anthrozoology Research Group

The Australian Anthrozoology Research Group is a registered charity that promotes the study of human-animal interactions. They support research into the benefits that come from interacting with animals, be it in a therapeutic, working, or leisure capacity.

The foundation also aims to educate the public about the importance of human-animal interaction and how it can improve our quality of life. They do this through running events, such as lectures and conferences, and by publishing papers and articles on the topic.