The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) has awarded a grant to the University of Guelph to study how pet ownership affects mortality among older adults in Canada.

Led by Dr. Lauren Grant, assistant professor of environmental and public health, Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, researchers will analyze data from the Canadian Community Health Survey and the Canadian Vital Statistics Death Database.

The study aims to identify psychosocial mechanisms that link pet ownership to improved health behaviours and longevity.

“This is the first path or mediation analysis of pet ownership, psychosocial variables, health behaviours, and multiple mortality outcomes among older adults using linked health survey and mortality records,” says Dr. Grant. “This information can be used by clinicians in practice to convey how pet ownership can improve healthy aging.”

“Solid science links pet ownership to healthy aging, increased longevity and reduced loneliness,” says Steven Feldman, president, HABRI. “HABRI is proud to support this important study to explore these connections more deeply, enhancing our understanding of the profound benefits of the human-animal bond.”