FAQs

Q What does SCAS do?

More about the SCAS team, our misson, services and publications can be found in our About Us pages.

Q How do I become a member of SCAS?

We offer several different categories of membership, depending on your circumstances and requirements. Please visit our Membership section to find out more and to send us an application form.

Q Where can I find the latest research to help with my particular studies on the human-companion animal bond?

Please visit our Research pages which list some good sources of research. By becoming a member of SCAS you can also have access to our library and resources, as well as the opportunity to network with others working in the field who may be able to assist with your studies.  In addition, www.anthrozoology.org offers a comprehensive list of published research in the human-companion animal bond.

Q I’m interested in starting an animal-assisted therapy programme. What can you advise?

We would recommend that you visit some existing providers (see Types of Programmes) to gain insight into this work. It’s also important that you have the necessary skills and experience to deliver animal-assisted therapy in a way that is safe and effective and takes the health and welfare of both human and animal participants seriously. SCAS offers training in this area – see our training and events programme.  If you join SCAS, you will also be able to network with others working in AAI.

Q How do I become an animal-assisted therapist?

Currently, there is no recognised AAI practitioner ‘qualification’.  Most practitioners are qualified in a health, social care or animal welfare specialism and then go on to receive specialist training in AAI, something which SCAS strongly recommends.

Q I want to use my dog in visits to hospitals/schools/hospices etc.  Does s/he need to be temperament tested? How do I go about this?

It is very important that your dog is in good health and has the right temperament for the specific work and setting you have in mind. Insurance is also important for this work. In the UK, by joining Pets as Therapy or Therapet as a volunteer, you will be able to have your dog assessed for suitability and they will also offer further advice on how to go about these activities.  The Blue Cross children’s education programme also offers opportunities for people and their dogs to get involved in school visits – again, an assessment and short training course is required for both dog and owner. 

Q I’m looking for some funding for my research project? Does SCAS offer funding?

SCAS has in the past supported small-scale studies through the SCAS scholarship. Currently this scholarship is not available. Please look at our research and sector news pages for links to other organisations that may be able to offer financial assistance.

Q I need some statistics on pet trends and statistics in the UK. Where can I find this?

We have some general statistics on our site. For further detailed information, please contact the PFMA.

Q I work as a journalist/film-maker and am looking for some further information on a specific angle I’m exploring. Who can I speak to?

We welcome enquiries from the press and media. Please visit the Media section of our website for details on how to contact our PR team and our spokespeople.

Q I am a student looking for placement in animal-assisted therapy (AAT).  Does SCAS offer internships? Where can I get experience in AAT?

SCAS is an education charity. We encourage the development of AAT programmes, but do not deliver practical programmes ourselves. We therefore don’t offer work or voluntary experience in this field. Please see Types of Programmes for information on organisations delivering different types of animal-assisted interventions in the UK. Some of them may be able to assist.

Q Please send me information on your training courses, particularly in animal-assisted interventions.

SCAS offers training in animal-assisted interventions, pet loss support and the human-companion animal bond. Please see Training pages and register your interest in one of our courses – we will keep you updated. If you’d like to register for one of them, please book online. If you want to talk to us about the courses and your requirements in more detail, please contact us. 

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