Children, adolescents & animals research
Children, adolescents and animals research (caar), is a group of researchers, graduates and doctoral students led by Professor Jo Williams and supported by Dr Janine Muldoon. We explore all aspects of relationships between children, adolescents and animals, and work closely with animal welfare organisations.
28th November 2022
Summary of research now available
A summary of research for the 'Pet animals and changing homes' study is now available to download.
We would still love to hear from young people with care experience about the pets that have been in their lives. The age range is from 12 to 25 years. All ages can take part in our online survey (but those aged 12-15 years require carer/guardian/parent consent).
Information and direct link to the survey (for 16-25 age group):
Information for carers/guardians/parents and children/young people age 12-15:
This project is funded by the Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS). Our partners include SCAS, the Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals | SSPCA (scottishspca.org), Fostering Compassion, Staf (Scottish Throughcare and Aftercare Forum), and The Care Inspectorate. Find out more on our project page:

Pet challenges research
Following on from our project last year funded by the Scottish SPCA and Blue Cross, Blue Cross have commissioned us to continue this work throughout the UK over the next two years. We have recently carried out an online survey with 500 participants and will shortly begin our interview study with people who have accessed Blue Cross support services.
If you would like to find out more about our previous project, please visit the webpage:
Identifying optimal support for people and pets in Scotland | The University of Edinburgh
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