OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — Dechra, a global veterinary specialty care company, announced it has become the newest Human-Animal Bond Certified Company. The recognition reflects Dechra’s expanded commitment to supporting the human-animal bond through veterinary education, internal workforce training, and research support for the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI). The announcement comes ahead of International Human-Animal Bond Day on November 8.
“As a Human-Animal Bond Certified Company, we are reinforcing our belief that the human-animal bond improves lives on both ends of the leash,” said Laura Olsen, President, North America and Chief Marketing Officer at Dechra. “This certification strengthens our ability to equip veterinarians with tools to protect that bond every day in their practices and communities.”
International Human-Animal Bond Day highlights the well-documented benefits of relationships between people and companion animals. Research has shown that pet ownership is associated with improved mental and physical well-being, including reduced stress, healthier aging, stronger social connection, and better sleep.
A global HABRI survey found that 98 percent of pet owners report at least one health benefit from their pets, and 80 percent say they would be more likely to keep up with veterinary care if they understood more of the science behind the bond.
“International Human-Animal Bond Day is the perfect time to recognize how the bond supports health and wellbeing, and to acknowledge companies like Dechra who are making it central to their mission,” said Steven Feldman, President of HABRI. “By becoming a Human-Animal Bond Certified Company, Dechra is demonstrating leadership in the animal health space and helping veterinarians and pet owners strengthen the bond every day.”
The certification program, jointly offered by HABRI and the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC), provides training on the biological basis of the bond, welfare assessment, communication techniques, and methods for ensuring veterinary care supports the human-animal relationship.
Dechra employees will begin certification training as part of the company’s internal rollout. Beginning in early 2026, the training will also be offered to Dechra customers through NAVC’s Vetfolio platform as online continuing education for individual veterinarians and clinics.
