Nicole Lang, MSW, LCSW, VSW-CP is a Clinical Associate Professor and Assistant Director of Field Education at Boise State University School of Social Work. She is currently a Doctoral Candidate at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work with an emphasis on leadership and administration. Nicole has over 25 years of experience in the field and has expertise as a clinician, educator, and non-profit leader. She has been an advocate for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout much of her career. She is also a trained Veterinary Social Worker and continues her nonprofit experience through her work with Veterinary Hope Foundation as both a support group facilitator and the program administrator. Her research interests and capstone project are centered around the Human-Animal Bond (HAB) and how it is addressed in generalist social work practice and casework. Through her research, she aims to educate social work students, practicum agencies, and organizational leaders on the importance of the HAB and its impact on clients across system levels. Nicole presents locally, regionally, and nationally on issues related to practicum education, the HAB, social work practice, and Veterinary Social Work.
DSW Showcase Student Presentation
Nicole Lang
MSW, LCSW
Addressing the Human-Animal Bond in Generalist Social Work Practice and Casework
Concentration - Administrative Leadership
- Tuesday, April 29, 2025 -
- 9:00 am
Abstract
This presentation will explore the Human Animal Bond (HAB) and its benefits and the obstacles it may pose to pet owners, which are the subject of an expanding body of research. This presentation comprises a literature review that investigates the assumption that social work practitioners lack a comprehensive understanding of the HAB and veterinary social work concepts, as well as the impact of this lack of understanding on clients. Additionally, it discusses the scarcity of training available to address the HAB in social work practice. This presentation applies critical feminist, ethical leadership, and systems theories to establish a framework that redefines the concept of family to include pets and addresses the implications of the HAB in generalist social work practice and casework. It incorporates concepts from veterinary social work to develop an understanding of the HAB’s impact on a continuum across systems and various client groups. It emphasizes the necessity of ongoing education and training in this field and draws attention to the demographics that would most benefit from this conceptual framework. Practice application and strategies to address the HAB in practice from an administrative and leadership perspective are also highlighted.