Center for Human-Animal Interactions Research and Education

CHAIRE was developed to examine the complex and multidimensional relationships between humans and nonhuman animals (hereinafter called animal). CHAIRE is committed to expanding our knowledge and sustainability of the interrelationships between people, animals and the environment. CHAIRE is unique from other existing centers in that the animals and interactions examined expand beyond companion animals and equine to also include agricultural, wildlife, and exotic animals. Another important distinction of CHAIRE is the purposeful effort to consider all human-animal interactions (HAI) from not only the human perspective but also the animal perspective, highlighting the recognition of the mutualistic relationship. Whether the context of the interaction is the agricultural animal industry, conservation of animals, animal companionship, or other animal roles in society, those seeking answers deserve information based on evidence, an idea embedded in CHAIRE's goal to achieve its mission through collaborative research, education and outreach. Remaining true to this goal, CHAIRE has established four focus areas: welfare and behavior (human and animal), conservation, zooeyia (positive health benefits), and companionship. In each focus area we work with partners and the broader communities to identify challenges/concerns, develop research proposals through trans disciplinary collaboration and shared resources, and discover evidence about how HAI can support the well-being of individuals, families and communities. CHAIRE then serves as a venue for information exchange, providing educational workshops and opportunities to promote positive HAI. Additionally, CHAIRE will expand cross-cultural awareness in the field of HAI and engage in outreach activities in the community whereby vulnerable populations of people and their animals/pets are provided assistance. To truly understand the complexity and significance of HAI throughout society requires diverse ideas, approaches, and talents. Therefore, CHAIRE has sought and continues to seek partners who share their mission to enhance the relationships between humans and animals and advance appropriate husbandry and management of both wild and domestic species. Current Ohio State partners include: CFAES, the College of Vet Med, the College of Social Work, and the College of Nursing. Many other colleges work in this arena as well and are welcome to consider partnering. Current external partners include: The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, The Wilds, Ohio Wildlife Center, Pilot Dogs, Buckeye Ranch, PBJ Connections, and Phibro Animal Health Corp. Given the gamut of HAI present in society, and as awareness of CHAIRE spreads, we expect to grow. CHAIRE is committed to maintaining open dialogue with our partners and community at large, ensuring trust through our evidence-based approach and peer-reviewed evaluation of our work. We recognize that societal tradeoffs exist in every HAI and desire to optimize the welfare of all.AUTHOR AFFILIATION: Kelly George, assistant professor, professional practice, and co-director of CHAIRE, Ohio State Department of Animal Sciences, george.239@osu.edu (Corresponding Author)Human-animal interactions (HAI) are an integral part of society and have become the topic of many discussions across a variety of contexts, including: media, scientific research, food production, one health, conservation, and welfare and behavior. Many argue that the resilience and sustainability of our societies are dependent on these interactions; therefore, making our improved understanding a priority. The Center for Human-Animal Interactions Research and Education (CHAIRE) is a new trans-disciplinary academic endeavor to explore the topic of HAI through research, education, and outreach. CHAIRE expands beyond companion animals and equine to also include food animals, wildlife, and exotic animals. CHAIRE provides the venue for community partners and researchers to identify and address opportunities and challenges in current and future human-animal interactions, with the goal of improving the welfare of both the human and non-human animal