A study published in the Human-Animal Interactions journal reveals that cows used as therapy animals have a strong preference for interactions with women as opposed to men. The research, conducted by Dr Katherine Compitus and Dr Sonya Bierbower, found that women also reported greater attachment behaviors towards the steers. The study used the Human-Animal Interaction Scale (HAIS) to measure behaviors during interaction episodes and focused on the welfare and enrichment benefits of cattle involved in bovine-assisted therapy. Little research has been done on the therapeutic benefits of animal-assisted interventions with farm animals.
The study, conducted at the Surrey Hills Sanctuary in New York State, USA, involved two steers named Magnus and Callum and 11 participants aged 13 to 79, with six females and five males. The researchers discovered that bovine-assisted therapy not only benefits human participants but also enriches the cattle involved, as shown by their proximity and interactions with humans. Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is often used in conjunction with other therapeutic methods and has shown positive results with a variety of populations and conditions. While companion animals like dogs and cats are commonly used in AAT, there is little research on the therapeutic benefits of farm animals like cows.
Cows have unique behavioral traits that allow them to bond with people, and their interactions during AAT may include lying down, grooming, or smelling the person. Cattle that enjoy human company will show reduced stress signals, while those uncomfortable with human presence may exhibit stress vocalizations. In the study, Magnus and Callum displayed positive behaviors during interactions with the participants, accepting food, allowing physical interactions, and rarely showing aggression. Participants reported a positive experience and expressed interest in recommending bovine-assisted therapy to others.
The study found that the steers had a strong preference for interactions with women and that women reported stronger attachment behaviors towards the cattle. It is unclear whether the animals sought attention from women specifically or if women were more likely to initiate interactions compared to men. The researchers suggest that further testing is needed to understand this preference. Overall, the study concluded that bovine-assisted therapy is an effective treatment model that benefits both human and cattle participants, as evidenced by their continuous interactions and proximity during sessions.
The researchers addressed gaps in research by including cattle in AAT and examining the cognitive processes of animals involved in therapy. They found that cattle who enjoy human company will display positive behaviors and reduced stress signals during therapy work, while those uncomfortable with humans may show increased stress. By studying the unique behavioral traits of cows and their interactions during AAT, the researchers hope to expand the understanding of the benefits of therapy animals beyond traditional companion animals like dogs and cats.