ABSTRACT
The human–animal social connection is different from the construct of human dependence on animals. Human dependence encompasses the use of animals for protection, labor, food, and shelter and exploitation for experimentation and entertainment. Animals have a long history as beasts of burden and a food source in South Korea. With little concern for animal cruelty, the generally accepted idea of companion animal, or family pet, is yet to evolve there. What is significant about the Samsung Corporation animal programs is that there is virtually nothing else like them in the rest of South Korea. Residents in this country are solely reliant on Samsung for many animal-related services. The animal-assisted service providers in Hong Kong have several obstacles to overcome. Having a pet in Hong Kong is not as commonplace as having a pet in the US because in Hong Kong there is little space for a pet and many people live in small apartments.
