What is “One Health”?
One Health is an approach that recognizes that the health of people is closely connected to the health of animals and our shared environment. (1) As the population has grown, we tend to share our lives more closely with all kinds of animals.
Common One Health Issues
zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, food safety and food security, vector-borne diseases, environmental contamination, and other health threats shared by people, animals, and the environment. (1)
Goal of Movement
The One Health Approach aims to fight these issues in a way that benefits people, animals, and the environment alike. The One Health approach can also be adapted to increase our appreciation for the way we care for animals and the planet.
Resources
What is the “Human-Animal Bond”?
The Human-Animal Bond is defined as a mutually beneficial and dynamic relationship between people and animals that positively influences the health and well-being of both. Benefits of the Human-Animal Bond
Ways in which we can access the human-animal bond
- Pet ownership: Having a pet in the home has been empirically validated as a protective measure for physical and mental health.
- Animal Assisted Interventions: goal-oriented and structured interventions that intentionally incorporate animals in health, education, and human service for the purpose of therapeutic gains and improved health and wellness.
- Animal Related Engagement: any engagement opportunity that allows participants the benefits of the human-animal bond by encouraging the remembrance of feelings that are commonly associated with interaction with an animal.
- Humane Education: education that encourages an understanding of the need for compassion and respect for people, animals and the environment and recognizes the interdependence of all living things.
NOTE: The information contained in these self-help documents is not to be used as a substitute for professional care. Neither the authors nor the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association (GVMA) assume liability for injury incurred by following the information presented in these self-help resources.