Autism is a complex neurological and developmental disorder that begins early in life and affects how a person acts and interacts with others, communicates, and learns. Individuals with Autism may be challenged by social communication and repetitive behaviors, and anxiety. Autism is a highly individualized developmental disability, and everyone with autism experiences it differently, which is why autism is known as a spectrum disorder. Approximately 1 in 44 children has been identified with Autism[1]. For Autism Awareness Month, HABRI is highlighting the special ways that dogs can benefit people with Autism. A growing body of research demonstrates that interaction with dogs can positively impact individuals with Autism, particularly for improved communication, mental health, and classroom learning. Dogs Help Develop Communication Skills Research shows children with autism who have a pet dog or service dog perform better in social situations, including expressing more assertiveness[2], and exhibiting increased prosocial behaviors like sharing and empathy[3]. Both parents and children included in this research report that children feel strongly bonded to the dog[4]. HABRI-funded research...

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...

A healthy heart is essential for good health at any age. Research suggests that pet ownership and human-animal interaction (HAI) can lead to improved heart health through supporting a healthy lifestyle, preventing heart disease, and facilitating healing following a cardiovascular event. Since February is Heart Health Month, we’ve compiled the top scientific evidence on how the human-animal bond supports goo heart health.   Stress Reduction  High stress can contribute to many health issues associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Stress is also associated with behaviors that increase heart disease, such as physical inactivity and overeating. The CDC recognizes that especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, stress can run high, and stress management is essential to living a healthy life.  Scientific research has supported the concept that people experience less stress in the presence of pets. To measure the impact of companion animals on stress levels, many studies incorporate a transient stressor, such as having study participants perform a challenging arithmetic problem. A study of 120 married couples demonstrated that, in the presence of a...

Today is World Autism Awareness Day, and HABRI has created the following shareable infographic to raise awareness of the recently published HABRI-funded research, the Feline Friends study, which highlights the benefits of adoption of temperament-screened shelter cats for families of children with autism. Pets are common in families of children with autism, and previous research has demonstrated the benefits of interaction with dogs and small animals on individuals with autism, but little was known about cat ownership, until now. Please consider sharing this infographic on your social media channels, websites and with your colleagues, friends and families in celebration of the many ways in which the human-animal bond can make a positive difference in the lives of people with autism!

While this Thanksgiving holiday is quite different for so many, one thing we can be thankful for is the human-animal bond. Pets have been a bright spot during the pandemic, and research conducted since the onset of the pandemic suggests that the human-animal bond is helping support the health and wellness of people and pets in important ways.   To help raise awareness of the benefits of pets during these difficult times, HABRI created the following shareable infographic. Please consider sharing this infographic on your social media channels, websites and with your colleagues, friends and family. Giving thanks to our pets is more than a holiday tradition this year; it is a recognition of the growing importance of the human-animal bond. However you celebrate this year, HABRI wishes everyone a happy, healthy, and safe holiday. References 1.    APPA Pulse Survey Volume 1 2.    Survey Research conducted by Phyllis Erdman, College of Education, Washington State University, and a team of collaborators from Colorado State University, the University of San Francisco and Palo Alto University 3.    McNicholas, June. “The role of pets in the lives of older...

With the help of our supporters and partners, HABRI was able to continue to advance scientific research and share the message of the importance of the human-animal bond throughout this tumultuous year. We felt like it was important to compile our ‘year in review’ and reflect on all that we were able to accomplish together in 2020, and to express our gratitude to the leading companies and organizations that make HABRI’s efforts possible.   The following is a brief overview of HABRI’s programs, initiatives and important milestones reached in the past year:   Supporting Scientific Research on the Human-Animal Bond  5 New Research Projects Funded in 2020  In 2020, HABRI funded five innovative research projects exploring the benefits of the human-animal bond for child health and development, healthy aging, mental health and wellness and chronic health conditions.  Canine-assisted anxiety reduction in pediatric emergency care (CANINE III) (Indiana University)   Can interaction with a therapy dog as an adjunct to a child life specialist reduce anxiety in children in the emergency room (ED)?  Anxiety, stress and “threat perceptions” are major negative...