a persistent and irrational fear of a particular species or type of animal – most often snakes, rats, or other rodents. Encounters with the feared stimuli usually invoke a physiological response similar to fear and encounters are usually avoided where possible. Many animal fears begin in childhood and may be modeled by parents. The DSM-IV designation for this type of fear is specific phobia, animal type.
ANIMAL PHOBIA: “An animal phobia is the fear of a specific type of animal, leading to avoidance of encountering the animal, and distress when the animal cannot be avoided. “