Hill's Pet Nutrition and Harvard Advance Pet Microbiome Research Together

Strengthening Links in Pet Microbiome Science

Ahead of the upcoming Pet Appreciation Week from June 1-7, Hill's Pet Nutrition, a prominent name in science-driven pet nutrition, has announced a renewed collaboration with Dr. Curtis Huttenhower, a distinguished researcher at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. This partnership is geared towards advancing the understanding of pet microbiomes and their implications on both animal and human health.

The collaboration has ushered in the launch of a new web portal for the One Health Microbiome Resource (OHMR), aimed at providing researchers unprecedented access to microbiome data. This initiative represents a substantial commitment to deepen insights into the gut microbiomes of companion animals, which has important consequences for understanding their health and nutritional needs.

A Central Resource for Researchers

The OHMR web portal boasts the largest curated collection of data regarding companion animal gut microbiomes available to academia and industry alike. It serves as a vital resource facilitating necessary dialogues and providing essential materials including standardized protocols and computational tools. Researchers can delve into the role microbiomes play in maintaining pet health and combatting various diseases.

With a pledge to foster an environment of open knowledge exchange, this partnership vows to drive collaboration within the scientific community, enabling advancements in microbiome sciences that could lead to innovative nutritional strategies and therapeutic solutions for pet health. As Dr. Huttenhower notes, "The launch of the OHMR portal is a testament to the power of collaboration, allowing us to accelerate scientific research and translate findings for the benefit of pets and their owners alike."

The key aspect of their research underscores the dietary and environmental influences on the microbiome, which echo human health concerns and nutrition. The findings from this combined expertise are anticipated to contribute significantly to the development of strategies for diagnostics, prevention, and treatment effectiveness in pets by enhancing the understanding of dietary influences on microbiomes.

Driving Innovation and Research

With over a decade of commitment to pet microbiome research, Hill's has made it a priority to leverage its resources in the Global Pet Nutrition Center to explore how diet can optimize gut health. This research underscores the profound impacts that gut microbiomes can have on pet well-being ranging from digestion to immune support. The OHMR portal efficiently propels groundbreaking insights into this field.

Hill's Pet Nutrition has already utilized data from the OHMR to fund pioneering studies that elucidate the complexities of pet gut microbiomes. One notable research piece, recently published in the International Society of Microbial Ecology journal, captures the essence of companion animal gut metagenomes and enhances our body of knowledge regarding the microscopic inhabitants of our pets. Such research holds great importance in understanding diseases and supporting immune responses.

Another study featured in the journal mSystems highlights how differing dietary fiber sources can bolster canine health, corroborating results consistent with human health findings and opening doors for innovative product development.

Hill's continues to set the bar high in the realm of pet nutrition, longing to deepen the understanding of how dietary factors contribute to the overall health and well-being of companion animals. The ongoing studies, facilitated through access to the OHMR, promise transformative advances in improving the lives of pets and their owners alike.

Looking Ahead

Dave Baloga, Executive Vice President at Hill's, expresses optimism about the future of pet microbiome science: "It's all connected—our pets’ health, our health, and the world around us. When the ecological balance of these microbiomes is disrupted, various health issues can arise. Therefore, comprehending the connections between diet, disease, and the environment is crucial for achieving optimal health outcomes for pets."

Pet owners, those within the scientific community, and veterinary professionals alike are encouraged to engage with the new resources available through the OHMR portal. By leveraging collaborative efforts and pooling knowledge, the path towards healthier, happier pets may just be on the horizon.

To explore this pioneering venture further and learn how it may resonate with the lives of pets and families, visit onehealthmicrobiome.org.

About Hill's Pet Nutrition

Founded over 75 years ago, Hill's Pet Nutrition champions science-led nutrition tailored specifically for pets. Recognized as a leading veterinary-recommended brand, Hill’s is committed to pioneering research and developing tailored nutrition that addresses the comprehensive needs of our furry companions. With a globally recognized line of therapeutic nutrition and wellness products, Hill’s is dedicated to enriching and extending the bonds between pets and their owners. For more details, visit HillsPet.com.