The Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS) is delighted to announce that its 2020 conference ‘Human and Animal Welfare in AAI: Learnings from the UK and across the globe’ will take place this year online, and is now open for registration.

After much consideration and in light of the global Coronavirus pandemic, this year’s conference will be held in a virtual format on Sunday 13 September 2020. Although it is lovely to meet up in person with delegates at the conference, we are excited about the opportunity of welcoming delegates to the event that may not have been otherwise able to take part due to travel restrictions.

Loneliness and isolation are endemic and linked with a plethora of physical and mental health problems. There is now overwhelming evidence that companion animals can provide important social support and help to mitigate against these effects. Unfortunately, many people in the UK, who would benefit most from the health and social support provided by animal companionship, are still denied this opportunity due to restrictive pet keeping practices.  SCAS, since its inauguration, has raised awareness of pets in housing issues for example through its conferences, research and by presentations to politicians in Westminster, the Scottish Parliament and in Brussels. There is now political interest in this vexing area of discrimination. A growing number of overseas governments and regions have enacted positive pet policies. The Labour Party included positive pet legislation in its Animal Welfare manifesto.

Publication of APGOCATS Report: Cats as Companions: Can Cats Help Tackle Loneliness?

Loneliness is one of the greatest public health challenges of our time. Recognition of the need to address the negative impact of loneliness was reflected in the 2018 launch of the UK government’s loneliness strategy¹ and appointment of a dedicated Minister.

By Evangelos Diamantakos, BSc (Hons), MSc, PhD Cand (SCAS Trustee)

One of the main concerns among dog owners and trainers/behaviourists regarding the impact of COVID19 is the potential for dog behavioural issues following an extended self-isolation period or lockdown. There is a common concern that many dogs may be affected by separation anxiety. During these unprecedented times, most dog owners are spending more time with their beloved dogs. However, this amazing opportunity may come with a possible cost. This ‘extended’ time of interaction owners have with their dogs is strengthening the bond between them and consequently the dogs’ ‘dependence’ on the owners’ presence and company. The aim of this article is to provide some useful training and behavioural tips to help prevent or manage possible separation related behavioural problems that dogs may develop.

We are looking for volunteers to join our public advisory panel. As a member of the SCAS advisory panel you would be invited to review applications for funding once a year to help us to make decisions about the projects we fund.