Announcing the Winners of the 2025 Human Animal Bond Innovation Awards

Celebrating the Winners of the 2025 Human Animal Bond Innovation Awards

On August 13, 2025, the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) unveiled the winners of its esteemed annual Human Animal Bond Innovation Awards. These awards celebrate individuals, companies, and organizations that have developed groundbreaking practices and programs aimed at enhancing the connection between humans and animals while fostering a pet-friendly society. This year's winners have exemplified creativity and compassion in promoting this vital bond.

Public Service Award: Neighborhood Pets Outreach Resource Center

One of the standout winners in the Public Service category is the Neighborhood Pets Outreach Resource Center. This organization has made significant strides in supporting local pets and their owners by providing affordable veterinary care and essential human services since its inception in 2016. With a mission to cater to underserved communities, they have successfully aided nearly 9,000 families and collaborated with over 20 local organizations. By addressing broader needs such as food security, health care, and housing, they help strengthen the human-animal bond, proving that when people thrive, so do their pets.

Public Service Award: Pawsperity

Another laureate in the Public Service category is Pawsperity, a transformative program that empowers individuals facing poverty and systemic barriers through the art of pet grooming. Established in 2016, Pawsperity combines skilled training with crucial life skills, enabling students to embark on sustainable careers. The program boasts an impressive 96% job placement rate, lifting graduates' average income from $10,000 to $47,000. Pawsperity showcases the potential of the human-animal bond to uplift lives through service.