Janette Young is a Lecturer and researcher in health promotion at the University of South Australia. Research interests: Human-animal interface, particularly how pets impact on people's lives with a particular focus on ageing and mental health. I have two edited books in the area of human-animal leisure, domestic animals, and wild animals. Other research interests: spirituality/faith, communities and aging and how the civic sector of churches and community groups provides a democratic, self-directed environment for some older people to flourish through being needed and meaningfully involved. I have been at the University since 2003, starting as a Research Assistant, then undertaking a PhD before being appointed to a teaching position. Prior to my academic career I worked as a Social Worker in Community Aged Care and a Project Officer in the state government working across many topics and projects, including domestic violence, indigenous issues, prisoner health, adoptions policy, homelessness, and regional development.