Dechra, a global leader in veterinary specialty care, announced today its status as the newest Human-Animal Bond Certified Company. As a Human-Animal Bond Certified Company, Dechra has made a major commitment to supporting human-animal bond education for veterinary professionals, to training its own workforce on the science of the bond, and to supporting the research efforts of the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI).
“At Dechra, the powerful connection between people and animals is at the core of our mission,” said Laura Olsen, President, North America and Chief Marketing Officer, Dechra. “This Human-Animal Bond Certification firmly reinforces our belief that the human-animal bond improves lives on both ends of the leash — and further equips veterinarians with educational tools to protect the bond every day in their practices and communities.”
International Human-Animal Bond Day
November 8th is International Human-Animal Bond Day and celebrates the globally recognized, mutually beneficial relationship between people and companion animals. The human-animal bond offers scientifically-documented mental, physical and social health benefits, boosting personal and public health. Studies show how the positive impacts of pet ownership contribute to healthy aging and slower cognitive decline1, increased social capital2, reduced stress and better sleep quality3, and improved mental health4.
HABRI conducted an international survey to demonstrate the universal value pet owners place on the bond with their pets. Findings revealed that 98% of pet owners around the world reported seeing at least one health benefit from their pets, including increased happiness and reduced loneliness. Essential for the veterinary profession, 80% of pet owners globally said that they would be more likely to maintain their pet’s health, including regular check-ups with their veterinarian, if they knew more about the science of the human-animal bond.
“We know from our research that the human-animal bond plays an integral role in the health and wellbeing of people and entire communities – International Human-Animal Bond Day is the perfect time to not only honor this universal bond but also companies like Dechra who have made the bond part of their core mission,” said Steven Feldman, President, HABRI. “In becoming a Human-Animal Bond Certified Company, Dechra is reinforcing its role as a leader in the animal health space, and empowering veterinary teams and pet owners alike with critical information to support the human-animal bond every day.”
Human-Animal Bond Certification
The Human-Animal Bond Certification, offered jointly by HABRI and NAVC, explores the scientifically-documented benefits of the human-animal bond and provides tools for veterinary professionals to not only communicate the power of the bond, but also incorporate this knowledge into the practice of high-quality veterinary medicine. Through a series of online modules and electives assembled by experts in the field, the HAB Certification focuses on:
- Biological mechanisms of the bond
- Health benefits of pet ownership and all forms of human-animal interactions
- Domains of animal welfare and assessment techniques
- Protocols to positively acknowledge the bond and maximize doctor-client interactions
- Methods for eliminating practices that hinder the bond during veterinary visits
As part of the certification process, Dechra colleagues will have access to begin exploring these tools to better understand the science of the bond and its role in veterinary medicine.
In early 2026, Dechra will begin sharing Human-Animal Bond Certification training with its customers. As a Human-Animal Bond Certified Company, Dechra is also helping to make the course, offered through NAVC’s Vetfolio, accessible and affordable as online continuing education for individual veterinarians and clinics.
About Dechra
Dechra is a global specialist in veterinary pharmaceuticals and related products. The company focuses on the development, manufacturing, and marketing of high-quality veterinary products to support animal health and welfare worldwide.
About HABRI
HABRI is a not-for-profit organization that funds innovative scientific research to document the health benefits of companion animals; educates the public about human-animal bond research; and advocates for the beneficial role of companion animals in society.
Source: http://www.habri.org
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