Get Involved
If we can make it easier to own a pet or access the human-animal bond, we can help create healthier, happier individuals, families and communities, and healthier pets too. From laws and regulations that allow service dogs in public establishments to funding for more dog parks to public policies such as allowing pets in the workplace and in rental housing, there are many ways to make our communities more pet friendly.
Peer-reviewed research demonstrates that pet ownership belongs in the same wellness category as diet and exercise – evidence that clearly supports policy action as a matter of public health. Yet, there is no comprehensive public policy in place to support the health benefits of the human-animal bond.
HABRI needs your help. Lend your voice to change public policy and ensure as many people as possible enjoy the health benefits that companion animals provide.
Michelson Found Animals Foundation and HABRI believe that pets enrich people’s lives and that everyone should have access to the human-animal bond, no matter where they live.
The Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative was created to field research that demonstrates the benefits of pet-friendly housing to owner/operators, residents, and communities. From this research, we develop resources and partnerships that seek to increase the availability of pet-friendly rental housing.
Visit petsandhousing.org to learn more.
Domestic violence is a serious and urgent public health concern. Research demonstrates that pets are often targets of abuse or threatened with abuse, yet only about ten percent of U.S. domestic violence shelters can accommodate or help take care of pets. Considering that as many as half of domestic violence survivors will delay seeking shelter if they cannot bring their pets with them, the need for more pet-friendly domestic violence shelters is great.
HABRI-funded research has demonstrated the efficacy of service dogs to confer significant reductions in PTSD symptoms for veterans, including increased overall psychological well-being; a better ability to cope with flashbacks and anxiety attacks; a lower frequency of nightmares and less overall sleep disturbance; lower overall anxiety, depression, and anger; higher levels of companionship and social reintegration; and lower levels of social isolation.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) studies have shown that PTSD affects more than 250,000 (30 percent) of post 9-11 war veterans[i]. With an alarming 22 suicides per day[ii], we are dealing with an urgent crisis. America’s veterans deserve every therapeutic treatment or service available to them, including the healing power and support of service animals.
Supporting public policies that increase access and affordability of service dogs for veterans with PTSD will help save lives.
You can make a difference by supporting pet-friendly policies in your community. Opt-in to receive action alerts from Pet Partners. Share your story and use your voice to expand access to the human-animal bond and gain a seat at the policy making table.
By signing up to become an NAVC advocate, you will receive regular updates on proposed legislation with the potential to strengthen the human-animal bond set at the local, state and federal level. Often, these emails will include a call to action like signing a petition or emailing policymakers.
We know that there are big benefits when we bring pets into the conversation about our health. Ninety-seven percent of doctors already believe there are health benefits to pets, but the biggest barrier to discussing this subject with patients is that doctors do not have enough time. Please discuss the benefits of the human-animal bond with your doctors and encourage them to talk with all of their patients about the health benefits of pets.
If we take good care of our pets, they will take good care of us! To promote good health at both ends of the leash, make sure you visit your veterinarian regularly. We also know that the folks at the animal hospital like to discuss the human-animal bond.
