Nominations Now Open for Awards Honoring Innovations that Strengthen the Role of Pets in Society

HABRI Looking to Recognize Organizations that Advance the Human-Animal Bond

ORLANDO, Fla., March 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) announced today at Global Pet Expo that the public is now invited to submit nominations for the Human Animal Bond Innovation Awards, a program to recognize individuals, companies and organizations beyond the pet care industry that are advancing the human-animal bond and creating a more pet-friendly society.

"HABRI is moved by the dedication of countless individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations that celebrate and support the human-animal bond," said Steven Feldman, President of HABRI. "While Global Pet Expo showcases incredible innovations in pet care, we are specifically seeking nominations from beyond the pet space. Breakthroughs that strengthen the bond between people and pets can come from a wide range of fields."

"PetSmart Charities is proud to again be the Presenting Sponsor for the Human Animal Bond Innovation Awards," said Aimee Gilbreath, President of PetSmart Charities. "These awards showcase and promote innovations that enhance the lives of both people and pets, and we are excited to recognize those making a meaningful impact on the human-animal bond."

The submission deadline for award nominations is May 20, 2025. To submit a nomination, please visit: www.habri.org/hab-innovation-awards. Nominations can be submitted in four award categories:

Pet-Inclusive Culture: Recognizes companies, organizations, or institutions creating a pet inclusive culture within communities, groups and/or workplaces.

Public Service: Recognizes organizations with impactful programs to protect and strengthen the human-animal bond in their communities.

Pet-Inclusive Infrastructure: Recognizes companies, organizations, or institutions purposefully developing technology, transportation, architecture, policies or environments to safeguard and strengthen the human-animal bond.

Media: Recognizes an individual, media outlet or creative content that positively educates people about and illuminates key aspects of the human-animal bond.

Nominations are open to the public and can be submitted online at www.habri.org/hab-innovation-awards. Award winners will be selected at the discretion of an expert committee of pet care leaders. The deadline for submission is May 20, 2025. Winners will be announced at the annual SuperZoo convention taking place in Las Vegas this August.

About HABRI
HABRI is a not-for-profit organization that funds innovative research projects to scientifically document the health benefits of companion animals; informs the public about human-animal bond research; and advocates for the beneficial role of companion animals in society. For more information, please visit http://www.habri.org.

SOURCE Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI)