OHAIRE

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The Organization for Human-Animal Interaction Research and Education (OHAIRE) is a research group led by Dr. Maggie O’Haire, bringing together national and international collaborators, students, and community partners to conduct rigorous scientific research on the complex and widespread effects of human-animal interaction.

The OHAIRE Group is a leading voice in emerging areas of discovery related to how interactions with animals—whether through companion animals, emotional support animals, working animals, or Animal-Assisted Interventions—can influence human mental health and well-being. Our work explores both the positive and negative aspects of these interactions to develop a more complete and nuanced understanding of the human-animal connection.

By using evidence-based, clinically relevant methods, we aim to improve outcomes for both humans and animals. Our mission is to advance meaningful research that informs practice, enhances relationships, and ultimately supports well-being across diverse populations and settings.

Why learn about human-animal interaction?

Human-Animal Interaction encompasses many relationships with animals, including companion animals, emotional support animals, working animals, and any kind of Animal-Assisted Intervention. At the OHAIRE lab, we look at both positive and negative aspects of Animal-Assisted Intervention and Human-Animal Interaction. Through this process, we hope to obtain a more comprehensive picture of the unique and pervasive interactions between humans and animals. Our goal is to conduct meaningful, clinically relevant research that enhances the interactions and outcomes for both parties.