Bond: "a thing or force that unites or restrains. A binding agreement. To hold or tie together. To connect or reinforce." The Oxford Dictionary

Relationship: "the state or instance of being related, connected, or associated. The emotional association between two people [or entities]. The Oxford Dictionary

Human-Animal Bond: The human-animal bond is a mutually beneficial and dynamic relationship between people and other animals that is influenced by behaviors that are essential to the health and well being of both. This includes, but is not limited to, emotional, psychological, and physical interactions of people, other animals, and the environment. The veterinarian's role in the human-animal bond is to maximize the potentials of this relationship between people and other animals. AVMA, published in June 1, 1998, edition of JAVMA

Human-Animal Bond: The human-animal bond is a dynamic relationship between people and other animals that can be mutually beneficial, but can also create negative consequences for both. The nature and strength of the bond is influenced by both human and animal behaviors, as well as by animals' health status and peoples' life circumstances. The benefits and consequences include, but are not limited to, influences to the emotional, psychological, and physical health and well-being of both. The veterinarian's role in the human-animal bond is to maximize the potentials of the relationship between people and other animals and deal with the emotional consequences that arise when an animal's behavior, health status, or life circumstances jeopardize the continuation of the bond. The Argus Institute for Families and Veterinary Medicine, Colorado State University

Bond-Centered Practice: A Bond-Centered Practice supports and responds to the emotional needs created by the bond. Guidelines for Bond-Centered Practice, Colorado State University


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