Addressing Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Human-Animal Interaction

The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) is soliciting proposals under its 2026 Annual Request for Proposals to investigate the health outcomes of pet ownership and animal-assisted interventions (AAI). The objective is to support rigorous, impactful research that explores how human-animal interactions positively affect the well-being of both humans and animals. Proposals are welcomed from international institutions and organizations and must be grounded in a strong theoretical framework with innovative methodologies that advance the science and practical understanding of the human-animal bond. Funding priorities include research that is broadly generalizable across large populations, focusing on areas such as child development, aging, mental health, and physical health. Projects may explore the role of pets during public health crises, evaluate the benefits of AAI in educational and professional contexts, and examine translational outcomes to inform policies, health care, and veterinary practices. HABRI also encourages studies on underrepresented populations, diverse pet species, and international perspectives on the human-animal bond. Projects must be scientifically rigorous and ethically sound, with adherence to high standards of human and animal welfare. All funded studies require Institutional Review Board (IRB) and/or Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) approval, and animals involved must be under veterinary supervision. HABRI does not fund invasive procedures, capital projects, or programmatic support unless it involves evaluative research. On average, awards are around $50,000 for 20-month project durations, with no explicit funding cap. Proposals are due by February 26, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Applicants must email a PDF proposal, including all components and letters, to [email protected], following strict formatting and page limits outlined in the proposal guidelines. If applying for additional funding through Pet Partners, the proposal must include Pet Partners registered therapy animal teams and be submitted under a separate subject line. Evaluation involves an independent expert review board assessing scientific merit, potential for significant health impact, feasibility, and alignment with HABRI's mission. Selected proposals undergo an abstract review followed by full evaluation. Results are announced after the review, and awarded projects may begin no earlier than September 1. All proposals should account for full project execution within a three-year window, including milestones and dissemination plans. For inquiries, contact Matt Cryer at [email protected] or call (202) 728-7616.

Strong emphasis on scientific rigor, human and animal welfare protections, measurable outcomes, and translational potential. Proposals lacking clarity or feasibility will be downgraded.