Get certified to better support the human-animal bond

The AVMA has been the think tank for professionals interested in the human-animal bond since the early 1980s, and we’re excited to announce a new partnership to offer a human-animal bond certification along with two like-minded organizations.

The AVMA is proud to be the founding educational partner for the Human-Animal Bond Certification Program offered through the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) and the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC).  The AVMA is contributing educational content and promotional support for the program, and AVMA members qualify for a 20 percent discount off the cost of certification.

This online program allows veterinary professionals to fully appreciate the science behind the human-animal bond, learn more about its benefits for animals and people, and get practical advice on how to ensure good bonds are built and maintained. It also demonstrates how communicating the bond’s benefits to clients can help your patients and your practice. For example, here are just a few benefits of good human-animal relationships:

• Reduced anxiety and stress
• Lower blood pressure
• Decreased risk of heart disease
• Prevention of allergies in children
• Support for children with autism
• Help for veterans with PTSD
• Increased social interaction
• Support for a longer life

Becoming Human-Animal Bond Certified supports your patients, your clients, and your practice. The educational modules offer accurate and up-to-date information, helping you to remain the most trusted and reliable expert on animal health and welfare and human-animal relationships for your clients and community. Completing the program also unlocks access to targeted marketing tools and materials to help you attract new pet owners to your practice.

Learn more about the certificate program here, and get started today on the path toward earning your certification in the human-animal bond.

AVMA’s work with HABRI

The new certificate program is just one facet of our organizational partnership with the Human Animal Bond Research Institute, a nonprofit research and educational organization focused exclusively on the health benefits of human-animal relationships. The AVMA joined HABRI's steering committee upon HABRI’s inception in 2010, and also is a member of the HABRI Board of Trustees. In January, the AVMA Board of Directors voted to welcome HABRI's chief executive officer to the AVMA Steering Committee on Human-Animal Interactions as a non-voting liaison, enhancing mutual understanding and collaboration between our organizations.