Airvet partners with HABRI to advance human-animal bond research

USA – Airvet, a provider of pet care benefits for employers, has become an official supporter of the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), backing research and education on the health and wellbeing benefits of the human-animal bond.

The partnership will focus on translating scientific research into practical insights for veterinary teams, pet owners, employers and the wider public, with the aim of supporting both pet health and human wellbeing.

Pet ownership in the United States has reached record levels, while growing awareness of the health benefits associated with companion animals is increasing demand for accessible veterinary care and pet-friendly workplace support. 

HABRI research indicates that pet owners are increasingly attentive to their animals’ health and wellbeing and rely on veterinarians for guidance on maintaining their pets’ health.

Airvet connects pet families with licensed veterinarians around the clock and works with employers to develop pet care benefits. 

The company said supporting pet parents should be viewed as part of broader employee wellness strategies.

“At Airvet, we know stronger support in the workforce for pets, their families, and veterinary care leads to healthier outcomes for people,” said Brandon Werber, CEO and founder of Airvet.

Under the partnership, Airvet and HABRI will support research, public awareness, education and outreach initiatives aimed at strengthening understanding of the human-animal bond.

“Together, HABRI and Airvet will work on education and outreach efforts that translate the science behind the human-animal bond into practical insights for veterinary teams, pet owners, workforces, and the broader public,” said Steven Feldman, president of HABRI.

Expanding the role of pets in human wellbeing

The partnership comes as HABRI continues to promote policies and research recognising the role pets play in human health and wellbeing.

The institute recently issued its Pet-Inclusive Housing Report, which examines ways to increase access to pet-friendly rental housing in the United States. 

The report was developed following HABRI’s Spring Policy Forum, which brought together stakeholders from housing policy, animal welfare, pet care, animal health and human social services.

The report identifies approaches including greater leasing transparency, assistance with pet deposits and reduced breed and weight restrictions. 

It also announced the formation of the Pets and Families Housing Coalition, which will support evidence-based policies to expand pet-inclusive housing.

The report received support from the American Pet Products Association, World Pet Association, American Veterinary Medical Association, Mars, Michelson Center for Public Policy, PetSmart Charities and Zoetis.

For the global pet care industry, the developments highlight a broader shift toward recognising companion animal ownership as closely linked to human health, workplace wellbeing, and social wellbeing, creating new opportunities for veterinary care, pet benefits, and other support services.

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