Understand the bond between humans and animals
The bond between humans and animals is not new. Archaeological evidence suggests that humans and dogs have coexisted for at least 15,000 years, and probably longer.
While animals provided protection or helped humans hunt, evidence of affection, loyalty and companionship suggests that love has been an integral part of the bond throughout.
The timeless connection has piqued human curiosity and led to significant scientific research.
Research has revealed that being with pets actually changes brain chemistry in humans. Interactions with pets increase oxytocin (the “love hormone”) in both humans and pets, while lowering stress hormones. Researchers also discovered that when dogs and their humans look into each other's eyes, oxytocin levels rise in both, strengthening the bond.
Why does the human-animal bond matter? Because this connection can directly improve people's health and well-being.
As just two examples, pets in the classroom can help children build empathy, and research shows that aquariums can encourage positive behavioral changes in people with dementia.
For pet parents, research continues to indicate how important this bond is. From mental health support to improved physical health, the bond between humans and animals can be life-changing.
The top five benefits of the human-animal bond
Pet owners with the strongest human-animal bonds are more likely to schedule regular veterinary checkups, maintain appropriate playtime and exercise, offer balanced nutrition, and give their pets plenty of time and attention.
But the benefits of a strong human-animal bond aren't just about healthy, happy pets; people also get many benefits from that bond.
Pets relieve stress
Interaction with pets causes the brain to produce higher levels of oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin, the “feel-good” chemicals linked to happiness and bonding. At the same time, cortisol levels, the stress hormone, decrease. This means more peace and comfort at home with your pet, but the benefits extend far beyond life at home.
In hospitals, for example, the stress-relieving effects of therapy animals are measurable. About 15% of children in the emergency room are so anxious that they need medication before care can continue because it is severe enough to interfere with their treatment.
The results of the HABRI and Pet Partners study showed that after spending just 10 minutes with a therapy dog, 46% of children showed a measurable reduction in stress and anxiety, and their parents also felt calmer. Significantly fewer children who interacted with a therapy dog still needed anti-anxiety medication.
These results show that with the healing assistance of dogs, there is a potential to reduce healthcare costs, ease the burden on medical staff and create more positive experiences in hospital environments.
Pets help us get by
In a world where we are constantly exposed to stressful or upsetting events on our screens, pets continue to provide comfort and stability. In fact, studies show that pet parents often recover faster from stressful events than non-pet parents, thanks in part to the positive chemical reactions that occur in the brain.
Whether someone is recovering from trauma or dealing with everyday stress, spending time with pets can make a real difference. Regular interactions with animals have been shown to reduce fear, anxiety, depression and even sleep disorders. Pets also provide a healthy distraction from stressful or upsetting thoughts, helping people focus on the moment rather than worrying about the future.
Ultimately, caring for an animal can promote a sense of control and self-efficacy, which can be especially powerful for people dealing with serious mental health conditions.
Whether you're walking, playing, or just being together, these moments are linked to greater happiness, a stronger sense of purpose, and lower stress.
Pets Address Solitude
Loneliness is a growing problem in the United States.
According to a report by the Office of the US Surgeon General, social isolation and loneliness can increase the risk of premature death by up to 29%, comparable to the effects of smoking 15 cigarettes a day. For many, pets are a powerful antidote.
A survey by HABRI and Mental Health America found that more than half of pet parents said their pets helped them feel less alone, offered comfort during sad times, and brought joy and laughter into their lives.
Pets provide daily companionship and help fill the gap created by social isolation. They can also connect people to their communities and to other pet parents through activities such as dog parks, online forums or riding clubs.
Pets encourage activity
Human obesity is also an epidemic in the United States, so finding ways to incorporate more exercise into your daily routine is always a good idea. Walking with a dog or riding are good examples.
Even if you have a smaller pet, like a hamster or other animal that doesn't make you move, there are still ways to be active with animals.
For example, volunteering at a local shelter or rescue gives you the chance to foster or walk shelter dogs, play with animals, and stay active while helping pets in need.
Pets support longevity
All those cuddles, walks, and playful moments with your pet do more than make you happy—they can actually help you live a longer, healthier life. Spending time with your pet has been linked to improved heart health, healthier aging and stronger coping skills.
For example, the American Heart Association found that dog owners tend to live longer and recover better from major health events such as heart attacks or strokes than non-pet owners. Another study found that owning a dog or cat can help slow age-related cognitive decline.
Simply put, the bond you share with your pet can make your life longer, healthier, and much happier.
Human-Animal Bond Certification for Veterinarians
Vets play an important role in supporting strong, healthy human-animal bonds, which in turn supports a pet's well-being and helps pet owners provide the best care in the home.
When veterinary teams consider the human-animal bond in and out of the exam room, it can strengthen relationships and relationships, helping everyone work together more effectively to keep pets healthy. When each visit is personalized, it can encourage pet parents to develop a deeper appreciation and understanding of preventive and therapeutic veterinary care.
The Human-Animal Bond Certification from the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) is a continuing education program that helps veterinarians deepen their understanding of the science behind the human-animal bond.
Through the program, veterinarians—including veterinarians who care for pets, technicians and nurses who assist during visits, and the administrative team members who welcome families and schedule appointments—provide practical tools to honor the human-animal bond in daily clinical practice.
If your current veterinary team does not have this certification, it is quite possible that they still practice with the human-animal bond in mind. Many veterinarians already prioritize this connection and are passionate about nurturing it. The certification simply provides an opportunity to deepen that knowledge and apply it in new ways.
There are many ways to consider and honor the human-animal bond in the veterinary clinic. It might look like this:
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Getting guidance on enrichment, behavior and quality of life, not just medical treatment.
Talking to your veterinary team about the human-animal bond can strengthen your relationship while letting them know you value care that honors and supports this meaningful connection.
