Canisius College affirms its strong commitment to the advancement of ethical thought as it pertains to mankind’s relationship with nature and the other species with which we share the planet. The Canisius College Institute for the Study of Human-Animal Relationships (ISHAR) is at the forefront of Human-Animal Studies, engaging Canisius students and members of our community in dialogs on pressing issues.
ISHAR functions include:
- It coordinates synergy among the graduate level Master’s Program in Anthrozoology, the undergraduate Animal Behavior, Ecology, and Conservation major, and for three undergraduate minors (Anthrozoology, Animal Behavior, and Zoo Biology).
- Interdisciplinary coordination among the college’s animal-related programs and our Philosophy and Religious Studies programs.
- An Anthrozoology Speaker Series.
- Biannual Anthrozoology symposia.
- Advocacy of animal welfare and conservation via:
- The Canisius Ambassadors for Conservation
- The Canisius Zoological Society
- Volunteers and Interns
Anthrozoology is the name for a new scientific discipline that focuses on humankind’s interactions with other species. It taps into common themes that underlie our relationships with companion animals, zoo animals, food animals, and with wildlife. Canisius students can explore this discipline at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.