Purina awards 120,000 dollars to researchers

Purina has announced the recipients of its 2026 sponsorship for human–animal bond studies in a press release. The company is awarding a total of 120,000 dollars in research grants to three international scientific teams whose work explores how relationships between people and pets can support wellbeing in some of life’s most challenging circumstances.

The biennial programme, now in its fifth cycle, reflects Purina’s long-standing commitment to advancing independent, evidence-based research into the human–pet bond, is said. This year’s cohort brings together researchers from the United States and Hungary, with projects spanning survivor support services, feline behaviour science and innovative therapy models designed to reach vulnerable children worldwide.

According to Purina, more than 100 research proposals have been reviewed, with preference given to studies examining the role of pets in supporting people in vulnerable situations, the impact of human–animal interactions on animal welfare, and the often under-researched bond between people and cats.

One of the funded projects, led by Dr Jennifer A. Wagman at the University of California, Los Angeles, will explore how companion animals contribute to resilience and healing among survivors of intimate partner violence. The 18-month study will also assess the welfare of pets in these households, with findings intended to inform trauma-responsive, pet-inclusive care models that could influence policy and practice well beyond the US.

Feline behaviour takes centre stage in a second project led by Dr Paula Pérez Fraga at Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest. Using a global citizen-science approach, the team will conduct the first large-scale observational study of separation-related disorders in cats, gathering video and survey data from owners worldwide to better understand risk factors and support earlier intervention.

The third grant supports research into Remote Canine-Assisted Therapy for paediatric oncology patients. Led by Dr Judit Abdai, also at Eötvös Loránd University, the study will evaluate whether real-time, remote interaction with trained therapy dogs can improve mood, motivation and anxiety levels for children unable to access in-person sessions, while safeguarding animal welfare.

Since its launch in 2016, the Purina Sponsorship for Human–Animal Bond Studies programme has awarded more than 1.2 mio dollars to international research projects, according to the press release. Alongside its in-house science, Purina continues to invest more than 100 mio dollars annually in research, reinforcing the growing recognition that the human–pet bond plays a vital role in the health and wellbeing of both animals and the people who care for them.