Richard Timmins, DVM, is the Director of the Center for Animals in Society, a research center focusing on interactions between humans and animals. Projects supported by CAS explore the roles played by animals in human society, answering questions about the effects on both humans and animals. Current research includes a survey of handlers of Search and Rescue Dogs in California, development of an animal-oriented curriculum for children with learning disorders, and determining whether an elementary curriculum using animal models will enhance empathy in children. Past research has examined the socializing effects of companion animals on people with disabilities, feral cat control, and people's attachment to their pets. If you are interested in pursuing a study involving the human-animal bond, please contact me at rptimmins@ucdavis.edu.