The Three Pillars of HABRI's Future

By Mike McFarland, DVM

As a co-founder of the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), I am proud to share the incredible progress the organization has made in research and education in the nearly 15 years since its formation. Not only can we reflect on HABRI’s accomplishments, but we can envision a future where HABRI continues to positively impact people, pets and the professionals who care for their health.

?HABRI was founded on the concept that the positive effects of the human-animal bond could be measured. While it is intuitive that pets and people are good for each other, the research community, turbocharged by HABRI, has clearly shown this to be the case.

?At every stage of our lives, there is scientific evidence supporting the positive human health impact of pets. The research is so compelling that we can now consider the benefits of pets not just at the level of individual or family health but also as a vital component of community and public health.

?Our pets have also benefited immensely from HABRI's work, as we have developed groundbreaking international data showing that stronger bonds lead to better preventive and therapeutic veterinary care for our animals.

?Through HABRI’s work, we have shown that greater knowledge and communication of human-animal bond science, particularly among pet owners and veterinarians, is an important key to unlocking stronger bonds and better health on both ends of the leash. Armed with this powerful knowledge, where does HABRI go from here?

?As we continue to fund vital research, HABRI and its partners are in a unique position to drive societal change guided by three pillars:

?1.???? Vital Human Health Benefits of the Human-Animal Bond

?2.???? Equitable Right to Pet Ownership

?3.???? Ensuring Pet Health and Welfare for All

?The human health benefits of the human-animal bond are vital to the mental, physical, and social health of individuals, families, communities and cultures. Interacting with pets can reduce stress , anxiety, and depression , enhance mood, and provide a sense of companionship and purpose. Physical health benefits include increased physical activity , lower blood pressure , and improved cardiovascular health . Pets in various settings, such as homes, workplaces , and therapeutic environments, contribute significantly to overall well-being, fostering a sense of community and enhancing social interactions .

?Based on the universal health benefits pets provide, the ability to acquire and keep a healthy pet should be considered an equitable right for all. Pets are a force for good in our world, so much so that it is imperative that we work to ensure all people, around the world and at every rung of society, have the opportunity to experience the joys and benefits of pet ownership and interaction. This includes creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for current and future pet owners by addressing barriers to pet ownership, such as financial constraints, housing restrictions , and lack of access to pet care resources.

?The health of our companion animals is integral to the mutually beneficial human-animal bond. Pet owners must be supported through expanded access to veterinary care, regardless of cultural differences or the socioeconomic status. Providing affordable veterinary services; promoting good pet care; and ensuring access to necessary resources, including supporting pets and their owners in emergency situations, are critical elements in supporting the human-animal bond. By prioritizing pet health, we can strengthen the human-animal bond and promote healthier, happier communities.

?HABRI and its partners are in a strong position to advance these principles through research, education, and research-based advocacy. Policies – the rules, regulations and societal structures that relate to pet acquisition and care – have not adapted at the same exponential pace as the growth and strength of the human-animal bond. The work going forward will be to accelerate policy changes to create a more pet-inclusive society that fulfills these guiding principles.

?Looking back on a long and fulfilling career as a veterinarian, I am proud to have been involved in the creation of HABRI. It has been an honor to be a part of something so meaningful and, even as I retire from Zoetis, I look forward to being part of the continued growth and impact of HABRI as we work to ensure a healthy future for pets, people and all who care for them.