Purina supports scientific research into the human-animal bond

Purina, the global animal care company, has opened the application period for its 2026 Purina Sponsorship for Human-Animal Bond Studies (HAB) programme, which supports innovative scientific research projects that deepen our understanding of the unique bond between people and their pets. Researchers have until 15 August to submit their proposals and apply for up to 40 000 US-dollars in funding.

According to Purina, this year's proposals will give preference to those that address the potential benefits of the human-animal relationship in the following areas

- People in vulnerable situations, such as abusive relationships and/or post-traumatic stress disorder

- The impact of human-animal interaction on the well-being of pets

- The human-cat bond

“At Purina, we believe that people and pets are better off together, and we invest heavily in understanding how we can create stronger bonds and happier lives together”, said Francois Martin, manager for global pet behaviour and welfare at Purina. “Through our human-animal relationship research programme, we can better understand the healing power of pets and the many ways our bond with them affects their lives and ours.”