NEWS: ReCHAI to benefit from $400,000 gift
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People and animals have lived close to one another for centuries. The human animal bond is the strong connection that they feel toward one another. MU College of Veterinary Medicine is proud of this exciting center based on the growing field of research showing how the human animal bond impacts health in people and animals. ReCHAI is designed to:

• Develop a program for research and education to study the health benefits of human-animal interaction (HAI).
• Promote the science of HAI.
• Further the understanding and value of the relationship between humans and animals.
• Document evidence demonstrating Animal Assisted Activity is a beneficial form of complementary therapy.
• Celebrate and better document the benefits of HAI.
• Foster educational and research opportunities for MU students.
• Collaborate with other centers nationally and internationally to promote HAI.
• Foster public understanding of benefits of HAI.
  

Research Projects:

• Animal assisted therapy among radiation therapy patients.
• Pet attachment, health and well-being among ethnic elders.
• Neuroendocrine chemical responses to human–companion animal interaction.
• Older adults motivated to walk with a trained visitor dog in the Walking for Healthy Hearts project.
• “Pet Pal” program for older adults newly relocated to a nursing home.
  

Founded in 1946, the MU College of Veterinary Medicine has a distinguished history of benefiting the state and nation through its teaching, research and service programs. The MU campus and facilities offer extensive research resources and support services that provide a superb setting for collaborative research.