Virtual Pet Week on Capitol Hill Brings People Together in Celebration of the Human-Animal Bond

The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), The University of Toronto, Markham Stouffville Hospital, and the Western College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan announced the publication of a study exploring whether Primary Healthcare Professionals asking their patients about the pets in the family would positively impact communication to gather clinically relevant information and improve patient care. “Results of our survey show that asking about pets in the family is an easy and effective way to build trust with a patient, strengthening the patient-provider therapeutic alliance,” said Kate Hodgson, DVM, MHSc, CCMEP, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto. “When healthcare providers learn about the pets in patients’ lives, they are also developing an understanding about specific aspects of their patients’ environment and social history that can improve the delivery of healthcare.” “Having an exam-room conversation about companion animals helps healthcare providers learn important information about patients’ lifestyle and home life which can positively influence the way they evaluate and treat their patients,” said Alan Monavvari, MD, Chief of Family Medicine, MHSc, CCFP, CHE, CPHQ, at Markham Stouffville Hospital. Dr. Hodgson and Dr. Monavvari, along with co-authors Marcia Darling, BSc and Dr. Douglas Freeman, DVM, PhD, DipACT, analyzed results of a baseline and follow-up survey of 225 healthcare professionals asking about prevalence of patients living with pets, the health impact of pets, and influences on patient communication. Results revealed that patients are more open to talking to their healthcare providers about their pets, revealing clinically relevant information about how they live. Baseline and final surveys measured awareness of pets in patients’ families, assessment of determinants of health, impact on rapport with patients, and patient care. A sign test assessed difference in scores using repeated-measures...

The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) Pet Giving Network has issued a call for critical supplies in support of the Hurricane Helene & Hurricane Milton disaster relief efforts. The Pet Giving Network Action Alert requests supplies from pet care companies and organizations that are in critical demand in the affected communities.   “Pets are family, and in times of crisis, they need our help as much as people do,” said Steven Feldman, president of HABRI. “HABRI is proud to manage the Pet Giving Network, a lifeline providing communities with vital resources to care for animals and their owners in need and is grateful for the American Pet Products Association (APPA), World Pet Association (WPA) and the Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA) and their members for a strong and longstanding commitment to this important effort.”  “The American Pet Products Association is dedicated to supporting the Pet Giving Network and to helping unite our membership and respond to disasters in the most efficient and effective way,” said Julia Fidenzio-Alicea, Chief Legal Officer, American Pet Products Association (APPA).   With active natural disasters, the Pet Giving Network is stepping up to ensure that pets across the country receive the critical support they need during emergencies. The Pet Giving Network is a collaboration between HABRI and Greater Good Charities, a non-profit organization that works to provide in-kind supplies, donations and programmatic support to those in need. The Pet Giving Network connects pet product companies, non-profit organizations, and shelters to provide essential supplies, such as food, bedding, and medical care, to animals affected by natural disasters.  When hurricanes, floods, and wildfires strike, animal shelters can quickly become overwhelmed, leaving vulnerable pets in urgent need. The Pet Giving Network bridges the gap by facilitating donations from companies in the pet care community and distributing...

The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) today announced the winners of the inaugural Human Animal Bond Innovation Awards, which recognize companies and organizations with innovative products and programs designed to advance the human-animal bond and create a more pet-friendly society. “As the Presenting Sponsor for the Human Animal Bond Innovation Awards, PetSmart Charities is proud to celebrate organizations that have gone above and beyond to strengthen the connection between people and pets,” said Aimee Gilbreath, President of PetSmart Charities. “This year’s honorees support the deep integration of pets into people’s lives, and their efforts will make a difference for many pets — and those who love and care for them.” Nominations were selected by an expert committee of pet care community leaders assembled by HABRI. Winners were honored at a special awards ceremony held in conjunction with the annual SuperZoo show in Las Vegas. The 2022 Human Animal Bond Innovation Award winners are: Product & Service Category: Health Alliance Medical Plans Health Alliance Medical Plans offers health insurance plans across multiple states in the Midwest region of the United States. As of January 2022, Health Alliance Medical Plans became the first human insurance company to provide fully-paid access to 24-hour veterinary telehealth for 30,000 Medicare Advantage plan members in three regional offerings. “It’s a fact that pets play a tremendous role in human well-being,” said Heidi Sirota, President and Chief Pet Officer of Nationwide’s pet insurance division. “As a proud sponsor of HABRI’s Innovation Awards, Nationwide applauds Health Alliance Medical Plans for advancing the human-animal bond by making critical health resources available to pet families.” Workplace Culture Category: American Heart Association The American Heart Association’s Best Friend Fridays campaign is part of the Association’s Healthy Bond for LifeTM initiative to raise...