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Equines and their human companions

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  • Keaveney, Susan M.

Abstract

Previous research related to marketing describes deep emotional bonds that develop between humans and their pets (primarily cats and dogs). Another multi-billion-dollar international market that needs exploration flows from the highly-involving bonds between humans and their horses. Horses are not pets, but the study of equine relationships with humans generates insights into animal-companion interactions. This article reports results of an interpretive phenomenological investigation of the relationship between humans and their horses, using participant observations, in-depth interviews, and written open-ended questions including the critical-incident technique. Analysis of the data first addresses a priori themes from the animal-companionship literature and identifies themes found, themes with a twist, and themes not found. The article then discusses seven emergent themes unique to human-horse relationships -- including physicality, partnership, bonding through adversity, flow experience, communitas, spirituality, and life lessons.

Suggested Citation

  • Keaveney, Susan M., 2008. "Equines and their human companions," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 61(5), pages 444-454, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jbrese:v:61:y:2008:i:5:p:444-454
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    4. Kirk, Colleen P., 2019. "Dogs have masters, cats have staff: Consumers' psychological ownership and their economic valuation of pets," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 99(C), pages 306-318.

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