Continuing our Sex+ Symposium, Hani Miletski, Ph.D., M.S.W., joined us to discuss bestiality and zoophilia. 

After working at the Human Sexuality Institute in Washington, D.C. for five years, Hani has been working in private practice since 1999. Her doctoral research into zoophilia and bestiality resulted in publication of her work, a text covering a vastly understudied topic. 

Zoophilia Throughout Time

Before discussing bestiality and zoophilia, we need to begin to understand the nuances in these terms and the potential for overlap. 

Bestiality is the act of having sexual relations with an animal. This can be done with or without an emotional connection to the creature. That emotional and sexual attraction to an animal is known as zoophilia. People can be bestialists, zoophiles (zoos), or both. 

The concept of sexual relations with animals is taboo in modern culture; however, it is prevalent in art and literature through history and across cultures. Although some narratives depicting bestiality and zoophilia are tied to myth — such as the story of Leda and the swan in Greek lore — not every depiction is a work of fiction. 

In the American colonies, for instance, a divorce law enacted in 1639 in Plymouth Colony specifically mentioned bestiality as grounds for divorce. 

Today, bestiality and zoophilia are largely unmentioned beyond an uncomfortable punchline in some jokes.

Emotional and Sexual Bonds

Dr. Miletski first encountered zoophilia and bestiality through a patient in her practice. This sparked a deep curiosity for her, ultimately leading to her publication on the topic. 

Hani’s research found the average age of a zoo or bestialist in her study to be between 36 and 38 years old, although this may be due to her particular sample and not reflective of the population of all zoos. Nearly half of those surveyed were college graduates. Twenty-nine percent were married, 23 others were in an intimate relationship, and 13% were divorced. For men, the contact with animals was almost three times a week; for women, the contact was slightly less at about two times per week. 

The types of sexual activities with the animals varied between men and women, but one trend was consistent: many of those who engaged in sexual acts with animals prioritized the animal’s satisfaction over their own. 

Another finding for many surveyed showed a deep love for their animal partner. Zoophiles reported not just a sexual fantasy orientation toward the animals but also an emotional bond. 

A Misunderstood Condition 

Hani’s research on zoophilia and bestiality is not completely unprecedented.

In 1948, Alfred Kinsey’s research found one in 13 men had a sexual experience with animals. In rural areas, Kinsey’s research showed half of the men with a college education had some kind of sexual contact with an animal. A 1953 Kinsey research study found 4% of women had sexual contact with animals after adolescence. 

These numbers are likely underreported given Kinsey only collected incidences where people reached orgasm through animal contact. 

Today, the act of bestiality and condition of zoophilia are understudied and misunderstood, according to Hani, which is why she strives to educate others on this underserved community.

 Zoos often experience more difficulties in interpersonal relationships, and often, are more sympathetic and helpful to those around them. 

To learn more about this from Hani’s work, check out her book, Understanding Bestiality and Zoophilia.

Schedule a Session

Sexual stigma shouldn’t stop anyone from receiving therapy. 

At Kimberly Keiser and Associates, we are trained to work with underserved communities like zoos and bestialists. Contact us today to set an appointment and begin healing.