#USA #mental health #Washington #Pets #HABRI

Pets and Mental Health Resource Center Launches Online

The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) has recently partnered with Mental Health America (MHA) to unveil a groundbreaking new online hub, the Pets and Mental Health Resource Center. This comprehensive platform features a wealth of resources designed for both existing pet owners and those contemplating pet adoption. At its core, this initiative seeks to highlight the significant mental health advantages that pets can provide.

Addressing a Growing Need

Dr. America Paredes, the Chief Social Impact Officer at MHA, emphasized the critical importance of accessible, reliable information concerning the intersection of pets and mental health. With this new resource center, individuals can explore how companion animals serve as essential support systems for mental well-being. Based on a survey conducted among 4,000 MHA constituents, findings indicated that pet owners overwhelmingly experienced numerous health benefits from their furry companions. There is a notable demand for mental health resources specifically tailored to pet owners, particularly those grappling with physical or mental disabilities.

What the Resource Center Offers

The Pets and Mental Health Resource Center stands as a response to this identified need, fortified by generous contributions from the American Pet Products Association (APPA) and the World Pet Association (WPA). This hub is meticulously crafted to provide expert insights into the science behind the human-animal bond, alongside various animal-assisted interventions. Here’s what you can find:

• - Expert information detailing how pets can influence mental health positively.
• - A thorough overview of different animal-assisted interventions and their effectiveness.
• - Mental health resources specifically curated for pet owners.
• - Guidance on selecting the ideal pet and ensuring top-quality care for them.

Contributions from Industry Leaders

Peter Scott, CEO of APPA, highlighted the responsibility of their members in creating necessary products and services that enable responsible pet ownership and care. He expressed pride in the launch of this comprehensive resource, aiming to aid individuals in making informed decisions about pet ownership.

Additionally, Vic Mason, president of WPA, underscored the association's commitment to raising awareness about the mental health benefits of the human-animal bond, reinforcing WPA's dedication to supporting pet owners and professionals alike.

Live Educational Opportunities

In conjunction with the launch of this resource portal, HABRI and MHA hosted an educational webinar focusing on the healing power of pets. This event included contributions from experts in research, pet care, mental health, and animal-assisted interventions. They plan to expand the content within the resource center over time, ensuring that it remains a relevant and essential tool for the community.

Conclusion

HABRI is enthusiastic about this collaboration and the positive impact it can have on individuals exploring pet ownership as a means of enhancing their mental health. Steven Feldman, the president of HABRI, stated the goal of offering trusted information to aid in the nurturing of the invaluable human-animal bond. The Pets and Mental Health Resource Center is now accessible on the MHA website, providing an invaluable resource to millions.

For more details and to access the resource center, please visit Mental Health America.

About HABRI, MHA, APPA, and WPA

HABRI is a notable not-for-profit organization established to fund scientific research demonstrating the health benefits of companion animals. Mental Health America is recognized as a leading nonprofit committed to promoting mental health, advocating for prevention and mental well-being. Meanwhile, both APPA and WPA are preeminent associations representing the interests of the pet care community, emphasizing innovation and responsible industry practices.