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People and pets – The importance of studying the human-pet relationship
The relationship between people and pets is forever changing and evolving. Cats and dogs have lived alongside humans for thousands of years, and over that time close bonds have been formed between the species. These animals support people in a myriad of ways from undertaking working roles to being close companions and confidants. Interestingly, despite long standing scientific fields related to the study of animals (e.g. biology, ethology, veterinary science) and humans (e.g., medicine, psychology), the specific study of interactions between humans and  animals has only been a distinct field since the 1960’s. Encouragingly, the field has grown in recent decades which is vital to better understand the complex and unique relationships people have with their pets.
What is HAI research?
Human-Animal Interaction (HAI) research is a field of study, also referred to as anthrozoology which refers to the study of the relationships or interactions between humans and animals. The field is multi-disciplinary with researchers from across the natural sciences, social sciences and humanities e.g. ethology, zoology, veterinary medicine, animal welfare, anthropology, sociology, psychology philosophy, history, geography.
Why is HAI research important?
In the context of pet ownership, many people who have a dog or cat will tell you their pet is part of the family and that having pets benefits them in some way. Studying the relationship between pets and people can provide researchers with insights to better understand when, how and why pets may be good for people, and what can be done to support the human-pet relationship, ensuring that both human and animal wellbeing is considered. 
How is HAI studied?
It is critical that HAI research is conducted in a robust manner, collecting data in a way that enables scientists to develop a clear understanding on how pets truly impact people and vice versa. The beauty of the field of HAI is its global and multi-disciplinary nature which provides great opportunity for collaboration, as well as the development of innovative ways to answer HAI research questions. 
Research in the field has already uncovered some interesting findings and there is increasing evidence that owning a pet or simply interacting with one, has the potential to bring physical and mental health benefits to people of all ages and from all walks of life. The aim of the HAI Research Team at Waltham Petcare Science Institute is to deepen this knowledge of the human-pet relationship to better understand how both human and non-human species can thrive and derive mutual benefit from one another.