Purina has officially opened the application window for its 2026 Sponsorship for Human-Animal Bond (HAB) Studies program, offering up to $40,000 in funding for innovative research. Now through August 15, 2025, researchers can submit proposals exploring the bond between people and pets, with a focus on vulnerable populations, pet well-being, and human-cat relationships. The program aims to deepen scientific understanding of the emotional and therapeutic connections between humans and animals. “At Purina, we truly believe that people and pets are better together, and we are invested in understanding how to create stronger bonds and more joyful lives together,” says Francois Martin, MA, PhD, manager of Global Pet Behavior and Welfare. “Through our Human-Animal Bond Studies program, we can better understand the healing power of pets and the variety of ways in which the bonds with our pets impact their lives and ours.” The initiative is part of Purina’s broader commitment to pet health and innovation. Preference will be given to studies focusing on individuals facing trauma or abuse, as well as the effects of the bond on pet well-being. Interested applicants can find more information at the Purina website.
