Recognising and Responding to Animal Emotion in a Shared World

The emotional lives of non-human animals have intrigued humans for centuries, as evidenced by the many publications in this area. The proposed book adds further insight and consideration of the implications of this knowledge for non-human animals, humans in general. It fills a gap for a book that expands and disseminates up-to-date findings on animal emotions/sentience. The writing style is clear and concise, and not off-puttingly academic. The flow of the book is logical, starting with the scientific basis of animal emotions and ending with their relationship with humans. The anthrozoology/philosophy side is lacking in the animal welfare sector, so this aspect fills a knowledge gap for students and professionals. Covers invertebrate animals and well as vertebrates. Broad international potential. It specifically addresses the significance of the research for targeted professional groups such as veterinary professionals, animal welfare workers, shelter workers, researchers, and animal law professionals. The information is presented within the context of a proposed hierarchy of perceived non-human animal emotional abilities, with specific examples of how this manifests at an emotional, spiritual and moral level. - Presents research findings, observations, interviews and anecdotal stories in order to give voice to non-human animals who communicate in many different ways. Rather than simply reworking extant literature, the book synthesises, interprets and builds on current knowledge to create additional meaning in some key areas. The book is relevant to students and graduates of veterinary professions; animal ethics, law and welfare; zoology, biology and animal science; as well as the humanities including philosophy and ethics. It is also of relevance to researchers using animal participants, and therapists practicing animal assisted therapy.