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.

Latest news

17th January 2022

New project underway!

We are delighted to announce that we have started a new project funded by the Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS). The project is titled 'Changing homes, changing relationships: Pets and care experienced children and young people'

SCAS Confirms Successful Applicants for 2021 Research Funding Round | SCAS

We are one of five projects focusing on housing to be supported by SCAS in their latest funding round, and look forward to updating you in due course on the progress of the study. Our partners for the study include SCAS, the Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals | SSPCA (scottishspca.org), Fostering Compassion, and Staf (Scottish Throughcare and Aftercare Forum).

Project page: Changing homes, changing relationships: Pets and care experienced children and young people | The University of Edinburgh

Pet challenges research

The Scottish SPCA and Blue Cross are currently reviewing our report on the findings from our pet ownership challenges research. Many thanks to those who took part in our online survey 'Supporting People & Pets in Scotland'. The findings will be used to identify priorities for practice and the types of support that need to be put in place.

If you would like to find out more, please visit the project page:

Identifying optimal support for people and pets in Scotland | The University of Edinburgh