PetSmart Joins HABRI Board of Trustees

The Human Animal Bond Research Institute and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) have partnered to highlight the importance of veterinary medicine to support strong, long-lasting human-companion animal bonds and to promote the health benefits of interacting with pets. Activities agreed under the partnership will focus on promoting the science of the human-animal bond and the veterinary profession’s positive role in animal welfare and human wellness. The WSAVA is also represented on the Advisory Committee which participates in the development of the online Human Animal Bond Certification course, created by HABRI and the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC). “Veterinarians are uniquely positioned as trusted resources for pet owners who are more attuned to their pets’ health needs than ever before,” said Steven Feldman, President of HABRI. “HABRI is proud to join with WSAVA to help veterinarians connect with their clients and share scientific information about the human-animal bond.” Findings from a HABRI survey of US pet owners demonstrate that veterinarians are seen as trusted resources on scientific information focused on the benefits of pet ownership. Research also shows that knowledge of the science behind the human-animal bond can motivate pet owners to take better care of their pets. Specifically, the survey found that when pet owners knew more about the human health benefits of pet ownership: 92 percent said they were more likely to maintain a pet’s health, including keeping up with vaccines and preventive medicine; 89 percent said they were more likely to maintain a pet’s health, including regular check-ups with a veterinarian; and 89 percent said they were more likely to take better care of a pet overall. Dr. Shane Ryan, Past President of the WSAVA, said: “Caring for an animal companion provides benefit not only for the animal itself in terms of its health and welfare needs, but can have many positive benefits for the...

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) and Royal Canin US, a global leader in health nutrition and one of the billion-dollar brands of Mars, Incorporated, have teamed up to strengthen the human-animal bond by delivering important information to cat and dog owners about their pet’s nutrition and healthy habits when it comes to treating pets. “Every pet owner has a special bond with their animal and for pet owners, regularly giving treats to their pet plays a big role in strengthening the human-animal bond, showing love and spreading joy[1],” said Dr. Annette Louviere, Scientific Communications Veterinarian for Royal Canin US. “Royal Canin is focused on helping cat and dog owners provide the proper treating and nutrition, which include safe and effective treats for cats and dogs diagnosed with lower urinary tract disease, gastrointestinal upsets, sensitivities to food or for those pets that need weight management. We’re proud to partner with HABRI this holiday season to share education about treating pets right.” Pets are overwhelmingly considered as members of the family[2], and, just like when shopping for human food, pet owners consider nutritional value as a top concern when selecting the right treats for their pet[3]. While treating pets can strengthen the bond between owners and their animal companions, it’s essential to prioritize their nutrition and health when offering treats to help ensure they maintain a healthy weight and remain compliant to their nutritional needs. “With holiday season upon us, it’s important to stay conscious of our pet’s diet to keep them at a healthy weight,” said Steven Feldman, President of HABRI. “Our pets are family and keep us healthy and happy, which is why we need to do the same for them. Staying conscious of their diet is one way we can do that while also strengthening the bond.” While it may be tempting to sneak the occasional piece of human food to our eager companions, providing them with appropriate...