The Human Animal Bond Research Initiative Foundation (HABRI), a recently incorporated nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the positive role animals play in the health and well being of people and communities, announced today the members of its initial steering committee, as well as three association supporters. The initial HABRI steering committee members are the American Humane Association; American Veterinary Medical Association; Central Garden and Pet Co.; Hartz; Hill’s Pet Nutrition; Morris Animal Foundation; Natural Balance; Petsmart; Radio Systems Corp.; Segrest Farms, funded by Allen Levey; Sergeants; and Wellpet. In addition, the Pet Industry Distributors Association, The Pet Care Trust and the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council have joined HABRI at the association supporter level. “We are pleased that these companies, organizations and industry leaders recognize the importance of HABRI’s efforts and have joined us to support research, education, advocacy and a national commitment to the positive impact of the human-animal bond,” said Bob Vetere, president the American Pet Products Association, which along with Petco and Pfizer Animal Health is a founding sponsor of HABRI. “Together with their support we are poised to help others come to understand what we already know, that the human-animal bond has the power to improve health and enhance the quality of life for humans.” HABRI plans to identify and fund new research topics, establish an education center, foster government relations and create a support network. To support its vision and mission, HABRI has established four initial work groups composed of steering committee members. Those groups are: research work group; support work group; government affairs work group; and communication and education work group. <Home>
