OUR MISSION: Improving the quality of life for people of all ages through the therapeutic use of companion animals.

Programs

Please select a program from the list below to view more information.

• Animal-Assisted Therapy
  

  Human-animal teams work closely with specialized health and human services professionals to design programs that meet specific therapeutic goals for each individual, such as improving physical, social, emotional, or cognitive function. Because of its ongoing role in a client's treatment regimen and the need for documentation and evaluation, AAT requires additional training of human-animal teams.

  After HABIC worked with an autistic child for one and a half years, his mother said, This is the first time I've been able to connect with my son.

• Animal-Assisted Activities
  

  Through forms of contact with the client, such as petting and speaking, human-animal teams are a source of comfort in hospitals and long-term care facilities. In many AAA scenarios the animal serves as an icebreaker, allowing a client to open up to professionals and HABIC volunteers in ways that would not otherwise be possible. AAA helps to relieve loneliness and provide emotional support.

• Education and Research
  

  As a university affiliated program at Colorado State University, HABIC is able to provide field practicum and research opportunities for students in the School of Social Work and other disciplines. The program offers a graduate course in the human-animal bond and animal-assisted therapy, as well as opportunities to fulfill volunteer hour requirements and participate in ongoing research.

  "I love the hands-on experience in this class and the fieldtrip. I look forward to incorporating AAT in my future career"
  
  -SW550 Student