HABRI Hosts Virtual Lecture on the Impact of a Shelter Cat Fostering Program on the Mental Health of Older Adults Living Alone

The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) announced today that Independence Pet Group (IPG) has become an official supporter of HABRI and its scientific research on the mutually-beneficial relationship between people and companion animals. “Independence Pet Group’s mission is to strengthen the unique bond between pets and their people through our innovative products and services,” said David Kettig, CEO of IPG. “We are excited to work with HABRI to further our common goals.” Scientific research demonstrates that having pets in our lives can lead to better physical and mental health for people of all ages. Importantly, the more pet owners learn about scientific research on the benefits of the human-animal bond, the more likely they are to take positive action including better pet care and more regular veterinary visits. “HABRI is grateful for the support of Independence Pet Group, which is dedicated to helping pets and their owners with its lineup of products and services, including pet insurance, enabling pet owners to get access to quality veterinary care. IPG’s brands also work to support a more pet-friendly society through its Dogs At Work program and by working with companies of all sizes to provide pet insurance to their employees,” said Steven Feldman, President of HABRI. According to HABRI research, pet-friendly companies are better able to attract, retain, and engage employees, as well as showing care and concern for both employee and pet health. More than ninety percent of employees who work for pet-friendly companies feel their employer supports their physical health and mental wellbeing, significantly more than companies that do not have policies that accommodate pets. “Independence Pet Group looks forward to joining forces with HABRI to champion the human-animal bond across all aspects of society,” added Kettig. “At IPG, we know just how important the human-animal bond is and we want to help elevate the world’s understanding...

The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) today announced that Heidi Sirota, Nationwide’s Chief Pet Officer, has joined the HABRI Board of Trustees. The HABRI Board of Trustees is the governing body that oversees HABRI’s programs and activities. This announcement follows the recognition earlier this year of Nationwide as a Human-Animal Bond Certified Company and reinforces Nationwide’s strong support for HABRI’s mission to advance the vital role of the human-animal bond in the health and well-being of individuals, families, communities and companion animals. “Nationwide’s support of HABRI is another way we help people and their pets experience better lives together,” said Heidi Sirota. “I am thrilled to join the HABRI Board and collaborate with other pet industry experts to advance science, educate the public and advocate for a healthier, more pet-friendly society.” “HABRI is grateful for Nationwide’s longstanding commitment to supporting scientific research on the human-animal bond,” said Steve Feldman, Executive Director of HABRI. “Stepping up as a HABRI Trustee only further underscores Nationwide’s commitment to the human-animal bond and to the health and wellbeing of pet and human lives.” Scientific evidence increasingly shows that pets improve heart health, alleviate depression, increase well-being, support child health and development, and contribute to healthy aging. In addition, companion animals can assist in the treatment of a broad range of conditions from post-traumatic stress to Alzheimer’s disease to autism spectrum disorder. The benefits of the human-animal bond impact more than just human health. Findings from a HABRI survey of pet owners demonstrate that knowledge of the scientific research on the human-animal bond motivates pet owners to take better care of their pets – from providing pets with better veterinary care to purchasing pet health insurance. In March 2020, Nationwide became a Human-Animal Bond Certified...

The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), along with leading organizations in the pet care community presented Congressman Kurt Schrader (OR-5) with the “Human Animal Bond Lifetime Achievement Award” at Pet Night on Capitol Hill. Pet Night paid special tribute to Congressman Kurt Schrader (OR-5) with the “Human-Animal Bond Lifetime Achievement Award” to recognize his dedication to animal health and the human-animal bond. Throughout his impressive career, Congressman Schrader, currently the only veterinarian in Congress, was instrumental in developing legislation to safeguard the integrated health of people and companion animals. “Throughout my time in Congress, I’ve been proud to champion the important benefits pets bring to our lives, and the vital role veterinary medicine plays in safeguarding public health,” said Representative Schrader. “It was my honor to receive the Human-Animal Bond Lifetime Achievement Award. I hope to inspire my colleagues and others to continue to support policies and legislation that advance the health of people and their pets.” The Human Animal Bond Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Congressman Schrader by HABRI, the American Pet Products Association (APPA), American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC), American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Animal Health Institute (AHI), American Kennel Club (AKC), Cat Fanciers’ Association, North American Veterinary Community (NAVC), Pet Advocacy Network and the World Pet Association (WPA). “On behalf of the entire pet care community, we are incredibly grateful for the dedication of Congressman Schrader and his staff to animal health and the human-animal bond,” said Steven Feldman, President, HABRI. “Through supporting legislation like the One Health Act that serves to protect the health of animals and humans, Representative Schrader has helped share the message with Congress that that pets play an important role in our health and...