Bestiality is not rare; in fact, it's been happening for centuries

by M. Jenny Edwards 

For most individuals, the concept of humans having sex with animals is abhorrent, and as a result, the topic is seldom researched, studied, or openly discussed.  Abundant historical and anthropological evidence, however, suggests that such relationships have existed for millennia.

Bestiality is illegal throughout most of the United States and is considered a paraphilia, or sexual perversity, by the American Psychiatric Association. While current, reliable statistics are lacking, some information may be gained from existing and proposed studies of sexual practices. Indications are that zoosexuals may comprise between 3-8% of the general population. Zoosexuals are primarily single Caucasian men between the ages of 45-60, and dogs are the most common sexual partner followed by horses and other livestock.

Each year an unknown number of animals are traumatized, injured, or killed after aggressive or repeated sexual acts. Animals are frequently solicited, traded or sold specifically for sex. They are filmed having intercourse with their own species as well as with human partners.   Far too often, they are found in pornography videos where children are involved. While there are known links between animal cruelty and human violence, few studies have examined the links between bestiality and other forms of criminal behavior, including trespass, substance abuse, or sexual assault and exploitation of children and adults. 

Sex between humans and animals presents practical challenges for animal welfare, legal, medical, and veterinary professionals. More research is needed to better understand causes, treatment, and intervention protocols and to foster development of practical tools and resources for the investigation, examination, or treatment of animal or human patients.