OUR MISSION

Recently established within the Department of Psychology in Fall 2017, the mission of Human-Animal Wellness Collaboratory at Monmouth University is to contribute to the scientific understanding of human-animal interactions - and furthermore, to use that knowledge for improving the lives of both humans and animals in society. Within that aim, we specifically are interested in designing and evaluating training and enrichment programs for a wide variety of species and environments. Our vision is to examine evidence-based assessment and treatments in clinical psychology (particularly applied behavior analysis) nonhuman animals with the goal of improving their well-being and their relationships with their human caretakers.

Central to achieving this mission is partnering with community organizations, companies, and individuals that are involved in animal use and care, primarily - but not limited to - those in the greater New York City Area. Our research, teaching, and community outreach initiatives have provided us with the opportunity to work with animal shelters, wildlife sanctuaries, zoos and aquariums, theme parks, and with pet owners and dog parks in the community. Thus, HAWC exists as a "collaboratory" because our research intimately involves collaborations with a range of outside institutions and organizations interested in animal welfare.

Finally, it is also the aim of HAWC to provide Monmouth University students and recent alumni with unparalleled research and service learning experiences in the area of animal welfare and human-animal interactions. Students are active participants in the entire research process and can learn directly about a variety of career paths in psychology working with both humans and animals.

Learn more about our research and areas of study (including opportunities to participate firsthand!) under "Current Projects". For an archive of publications in HAWC and by our lab members, please visit "Publications".