The Human Animal Bond Research Institute and Mental Health America launched the Pets and Mental Health Resource Center in October 2025. The online hub features resources, information and tools that highlight the powerful role companion animals can have in supporting mental health.
It is available on the Mental Health America website at www.mhanational.org/pets.
Source: HABRI, October 22, 2025. Link. A survey of 4,000 Mental Health America constituents found that pet owners overwhelmingly report positive health benefits resulting from their pets, that there is great interest and need for resources related to pets and mental health.
Nearly 70% of households in the United States have a pet. Of those who have a pet:
- 80 percent believe their pets bring them happiness and emotional support
- 55 percent believe their pets reduce anxiety and depression
- 66 percent believe their pets relieve stress
INSIGHTS: As our industry seeks to support pet ownership and expand the reach to cat owners, reviewing the resources in the Pets and Mental Health Resource Center may provide some content fitting an opportunity for a pet and pet owner.