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Benefits of pets to human health
Online hub proves positive impact of animals

Over the past year the online hub for the Human Animal Bond Research Initiative Foundation (HABRI) has been collecting extensive research and evidence solidifying the positive impacts animals have on human health.

The research is now available online and covers seven key areas, including allergy and asthma immunity among children, Alzheimer’s, autism, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Among the crucial findings, the research suggests that those suffering with PTSD benefit from contact with companion animals. Many physical benefits have been identified, such as the release of oxytocin and endorphins in the brain.

The research also shows that patients recovering from heart surgery have a better rate of survival if they own a pet.

Bob Vetere, HABRI president, explained: "Research exploring the human-animal bond is still a relatively new area of study and we are pleased with the compilation and strong amount of research that has been conducted on these health issues thus far.

"We look forward to continuing the momentum and our commitment to supporting research in multiple fields to help solidify that pets provide people with dozens of health benefits and much more than just love and companionship.”



HABRI is a national, non-profit foundation that promotes the positive role animals play in the health and well being of people, families and communities. With HABRI Central, the online hub, providing a publishing platform for its studies.

Click here for more information.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.