Empathy towards animals and people: the role of gender and length of service in a sample of Italian vets

Empathy plays an important role in interpersonal relationships and it also shapes the relationship between human and non-human species, affecting the way animals are treated and cared for.Veterinarians play a key role in regard to animal welfare and, especially in companion animal practice, they have to care for "non-human patients" as well as for "human clients", showing sensitivity and empathy towards both. However, empathy in veterinary professionals has received very little attention so far.
Source: Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research - Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Source Type: research