"[ The] authors broaden their approach to animal studies (sometimes called anthrozoology) by including updated references, in addition to adding chapters not present in their earlier book.... Among the topics discussed: how pet ownership contributes to positive self-identity; the experience of veterinary technicians; and how animal stories 'sell newspapers.'... [ T]he editors have admirably extended its range of perspectives to include philosophy, psychology, anthropology, and law. The book sheds light on the perennial paradox of what makes it possible for humans to 'shower animals with affection' but also to maltreat or kill them.... This updated work cites an outstanding range of book and journal references, demonstrating the depth of this newly burgeoning field of study.... Summing Up: Highly recommended."-Choice "With the incredible development of human-animal studies since 1996, a second edition [ of this book] was not only needed but welcome. The overall approach of the authors is appealing due to its thorough and skillful application of symbolic interactionism and its associated methods of empirical investigation to help us understand other animals and our relationships with them, and, in that process, understand ourselves."-Journal of Animal Ethics
