Study Finds Dogs De-Stress Families with Autistic Children

The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) is proud to announce a new partnership with Ancestry®, maker of the Know Your Pet DNA test. This collaboration will advance scientific research on the bond between people and pets, enhancing our understanding of the profound health benefits that this relationship provides. Ancestry will support HABRI’s ongoing efforts to fund innovative research on the human-animal bond. HABRI has to date funded 57 research projects examining the positive health impacts of the bond for both people and animals including improved mental, physical and social health. “Ancestry is proud to support HABRI’s mission,” said Caitlyn Bruns, Senior Manager of DNA Strategy at Ancestry. “Ancestry started Know Your Pet DNA because we believe that understanding the genetics and history of our pets not only enriches the lives of animals but also strengthens the connections we share with them.” In collaboration with Ancestry, HABRI will continue to educate the public about the human-animal bond, creating new opportunities to communicate the far-reaching impact of pets on society and the value of companion animals as a part of healthy lifestyles. “Scientific research has consistently shown that the human-animal bond plays a vital role in enhancing quality of life,” said Steven Feldman, President of HABRI. “Partnering with Ancestry will allow us to further explore how these relationships affect both humans and pets in meaningful ways and provide new insights into how we can strengthen this connection.”

The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) announced today it has launched the Human Animal Bond Innovation Awards, a new awards program to recognize companies and organizations that are implementing innovative products and practices designed to advance the human-animal bond and create a more pet-friendly society. “We know that there are companies and organizations throughout the country developing products and implementing practices that bring pets and people together in innovative ways,” said Steven Feldman, president of HABRI. “The Human Animal Bond Innovation Awards aim to not only celebrate these trailblazing organizations but also position them as models for others seeking to honor the human-animal bond.” “PetSmart Charities is excited to be the inaugural Presenting Sponsor for the Human Animal Bond Innovation Awards,” said Aimee Gilbreath, President of PetSmart Charities. “We want to shine a spotlight on all of the new and exciting ways to make the world a better place for pets and all who love them.” Nominees can be submitted in two different award categories: Products and Services: Recognizes companies or organizations creating products or services to enhance or strengthen the human-animal bond. Workplace Culture: Recognizes companies or organizations striving to create a pet-friendly workplace culture. “The award guidelines are written to encourage organizations and companies of all kinds to share how they support the human-animal bond,” said Feldman. “We know that innovations go beyond having pets in the workplace, and we can’t wait to learn about how leaders across industries are supporting the mutually-beneficial connection between people and pets.” Nominations are open to the public and can be submitted online at www.habri.org/hab-innovation-awards. Award winners will be selected at the discretion of an expert committee of pet care community leaders assembled by HABRI. The deadline for submission is July 8, 2022. Winners...

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...