How can pets add years to our lives? A range of factors are widely considered determinants of longer life and healthy aging in people, from regular physical activity to social connectedness and so much more. Scientific research, including HABRI-funded research, has demonstrated that the human-animal bond can positively influence the emotional, psychological, and physical health and wellbeing of people, in ways such as increasing physical activity, lowering blood pressure, and improving social connectedness. Many such benefits contribute to a longer, healthier life. The following is a collection of research supporting the ways pet ownership contributes to longevity. Physical Activity Maintaining good physical health through regular exercise is a well-documented way to facilitate healthy aging. Moderate physical activity 2-3 times per week has been associated with a reduced risk of death by as much as 28 percent, according to longitudinal study of approximately 9,000 Swedish adults aged 60-96 years[1]. Research has shown that pet owners, particularly dog owners, are more likely to meet the recommended amount of physical activity through walking. One study that examined new dog owners...

This blog was published in partnership with Mental Health America (MHA) and can be viewed on the MHA website here. Pets have been a bright spot in people’s lives throughout the pandemic, providing unconditional love and support. Approximately 11 million U.S. households brought home a new pet during the pandemic[1], and pet owners have overwhelmingly reported that they could not have made it through the toughest parts of the lockdowns and quarantines without them. Now more than ever, people need resources and support to improve and maintain good mental health. The good news is that the human-animal bond – our mutually beneficial relationship with our pets – can support better mental health for people of all ages, in good times and in bad. With Mental Health America’s Tools 2 Thrive topics in mind, the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) has compiled scientific research and information on the many ways that pets can help improve mental health, resilience, and empower us to thrive. Adapting after trauma and stress Research shows that the emotional[2] and social[3] support pets provide helps buffer stress, promote resilience, and recover from adverse circumstances. Studies...

It’s back to school season, and whether children are returning to the classroom in-person or virtually, research suggests that pets can facilitate engaged learning and promote good behavior. Please consider sharing this infographic on your social media channels, websites and with your colleagues, friends and families to raise awareness of all the benefits of integrating a pet into a lesson plan with children of any age!

Results from this HABRI-funded study conducted by researchers at Purdue University are among the first to demonstrate the benefits of psychiatric service dogs for military veterans with PTSD. Please consider sharing this infographic on your social media channels, websites and with your colleagues, friends and families to raise awareness of the many ways in which the human-animal bond can make a positive difference in the lives of people with PTSD.

Ask any pet owner and they’ll agree, pets enrich our lives. Did you know? There’s scientific research that supports the human-animal bond – or the mutually beneficial relationship between people and pets – for a happier, healthier life. HABRI has created this new infographic highlighting the benefits of a healthy relationship with a pet. HABRI hopes that in sharing this far and wide, we can encourage people to take care of their pets and remind them that in good times and in bad, our companion animals can be wonderful sources of comfort, joy and support. Please consider posting this infographic on your social media channels, websites and with your colleagues, friends and family to help us strengthen the human-animal bond for all! References Allen, K., Blascovich, J., & Mendes, W. B. (2002). Cardiovascular reactivity and the presence of pets, friends, and spouses: The truth about cats and dogs. Psychosomatic medicine, 64(5), 727-739. Janevic, M., Solway, E., Malani, P., Kirch, M., Kullgren, J., & Connell, C. (2019). National Poll on Healthy Aging: How pets contribute to healthy aging. Brooks, H., Rushton, K., Walker, S., Lovell, K., & Rogers, A. (2016). Ontological...

While 1 in 44 children are diagnosed with autism[1], this developmental disability is still misunderstood, leading to disparities in health, education, and economic opportunity for people living with autism[2]. For this reason, more research is needed to empower all neurodiverse people to thrive and enjoy a high quality of life. Early diagnoses of and interventions for autism are more likely to have long-term positive effects on symptoms and later skills[3]. Research strongly indicates that the human-animal bond can benefit children with autism. Between 2016 and 2020, research on animal-assisted interventions (AAI) for people with autism has more than doubled[4]. HABRI is proud to contribute to the growing field of research investigating the benefits of companion animals for individuals with autism. The following is a summary of the HABRI-funded scientific research focused on f people living on the autism spectrum: Animal-Assisted Social Skills Training for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders This study evaluated the effectiveness of an animal-assisted social skills training group for youth living with autism. It was hypothesized that incorporating dogs into social skills training...