- Zoetis will fund free Human–Animal Bond Certification through 2026 for U.S. veterinary and veterinary technician students.
- The program is administered by the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) in partnership with the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI).
- The scholarship program has already registered nearly 250 veterinary students in its first year.
- The certification focuses on strengthening client communication and integrating human–animal bond principles into clinical care.
- Since launching in 2018, more than 1,280 veterinary professionals have completed the Human–Animal Bond Certification program.
Zoetis is expanding its support for veterinary education by extending its sponsorship of the Human–Animal Bond Certification scholarship and opening the program to veterinary technician students for the first time.
The initiative, offered in partnership with the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) and the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), provides veterinary and veterinary technician students across the United States with free access to the certification program through 2026.
Expanding Education Across the Care Team
NAVC CEO Gene O’Neill said the program reflects the organization’s mission to broaden access to high-quality veterinary education.
“The human–animal bond plays an integral role in the lives of pets, people and the veterinary team that cares for both,” O’Neill said. “NAVC is proud to partner with Zoetis and HABRI to give greater access to our certification program and reach more veterinary students.”
Now entering its second year, the scholarship program has already registered nearly 250 veterinary students. Expanding eligibility to veterinary technician students acknowledges the critical role technicians play in veterinary care, often serving as primary points of contact for clients and their pets.
Building Skills in Compassion and Communication
The Human–Animal Bond Certification program, launched in 2018 by NAVC and HABRI, provides science-based training on the health benefits of companion animals and how veterinary professionals can incorporate human–animal bond principles into everyday practice.
Participants learn how to strengthen communication with clients, support pet owners during difficult decisions, and apply evidence-based strategies that reinforce the relationship between animals and the people who care for them.
Dr. Oliver Knesl of Zoetis said the expanded scholarship reflects the company’s commitment to supporting veterinary professionals and strengthening the human–animal bond.
“By widening access to this science-based education, we’re helping equip the entire veterinary care team with practical tools to strengthen communication, support well-being and improve outcomes for pets and the people who love them,” he said.
Zoetis became the first Human–Animal Bond Certified company in 2019.
Advancing Research and Awareness
HABRI President Steven Feldman said the partnership ensures that future veterinary professionals understand the science behind the human–animal bond and how it can be applied in clinical practice.
Through the collaboration, veterinary and veterinary technician students can enroll in the certification through VetFolio, NAVC’s digital education platform for veterinary professionals.
Since its launch in 2018, more than 1,280 veterinary professionals have earned the Human–Animal Bond Certification.
Information sourced from the company’s press release.
