HABRI's 2026 Human-Animal Bond Benchmark Survey shows growth in pet ownership tied to research-supported health gains

, /PRNewswire/ -- The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) has released findings from its latest benchmark survey of Americans that demonstrates the health advantages of pet ownership are commonly experienced and widely understood. Ninety-eight percent of pet owners noted at least one health gain from having pets, and 62% of all Americans (both owners and non-owners) have talked about the health perks of pets. These talks have built broad awareness, with 97% of all Americans stating they know of at least one research-backed health benefit from pet ownership.

The survey also showed that 74% of Americans now own at least one pet, and another 15% plan to acquire one. Pet owners now keep more pets than before, with 64% reporting multi-pet homes. The survey found an average of three pets per household across all types, and an average of 2.2 pets per household when counting only dogs and cats.

"Nine in ten Americans either own a pet or want one, fueled by the knowledge that the connections we form with our pets support our well-being," said Steven Feldman, President of HABRI. "HABRI's data shows evidence of a cultural shift, where even non-owners grasp the advantages and seek communities and businesses that back pet ownership."

Backing for pet-inclusive policies across society is strong. Among all Americans, 83% said public spaces should welcome pets; 81% said they would be more inclined to purchase from pet-friendly businesses; and 80% say rental housing should have fewer limits on pets.

The Mental Health Gains from Pets Are Widely Known

The average American knows of 18 different health benefits from pets, up from 12 in 2021 when HABRI last ran this survey. The most recognized benefits are:

Easing loneliness (92%)
Reducing depression (89%)
Reducing stress (88%)
Helping people handle tough life events (87%)

Understanding the Science Leads to Better Pet Care

Awareness of the scientific research on the human-animal bond prompts positive care steps among current pet owners.

94% agree that knowing the research on pet health benefits makes them more likely to spend extra time with their pets
91% agree that knowing the research on pet health benefits makes them more likely to look after their pets' health, including regular vet visits
88% said that knowing the research on pet health benefits makes them more likely to give their pets top-quality nutrition
91% said that knowing the research on pet health benefits makes them more likely to care for their pet better overall

In addition, the strength of the bond influences how people tend to their pets. Pet owners with the closest bonds are more likely to: have a veterinarian (94% vs. 86%) and stay current with preventive care such as vaccinations (84% vs. 77%).

Future Pet Owners Are Motivated by the Bond

The 15% of Americans who plan to get a pet are driven by what the human-animal bond will bring: companionship (87%), emotional support (74%), less loneliness (71%), better mental health (68%) and better physical health (55%). Family life also plays a role, with 77% of parents noting that their children wanted pets.

For near-term pet acquisition, among those planning to get a pet in the next six months, 81% had discussed the health benefits of pets and 73% said someone had suggested getting a pet for better health.

Showing a positive outlook for dog ownership, future pet owners said they intend to get dogs (79%), cats (38%), fish (11%), small animals (10%), and birds (2%). Current pet owners who plan to add another pet showed stronger interest in cat acquisition (54%), along with dogs (58%), fish (11%), small animals (6%), and birds (7%).

Pet fostering also emerged as a possible path to ownership. Not only were 50% of all Americans open to fostering, but 37% of future pet owners would consider it to test if a specific pet suits them.

Obstacles to Pet Ownership

Housing rules that bar or limit pets form a major barrier for potential owners, with almost one third (29%) concerned about finding pet-friendly housing. More than a quarter of potential pet owners who rent (27%) pointed to housing limits as a reason they lack a pet. In addition, 31% of current pet owners who rent faced housing-related issues and 14% said they had moved to get a pet.

Future pet owners cite the overall cost of pet ownership (37%) as a hurdle. Thirty-six percent (36%) say they are waiting for the right moment, reflecting a careful approach. This readiness also appears in 52% of future pet owners worrying about the emotional strain of leaving pets for long periods and 33% concerned about balancing pet care with work and other duties.

The survey shows that preparation by future pet owners links to smoother experiences once they acquire a pet, including research on pet type and lifetime costs. And once they have a pet, regular vet contact ties closely to owner success.

"HABRI is highlighting how deeply the human-animal bond runs through our lives, which is why we must work to make the benefits open to everyone," Feldman added. "The survey points to clear steps to better support that bond, including making society more welcoming to pets and aiding new and current owners to prepare for and enjoy a fulfilling life with pets."

About the Survey

The full 2026 Human-Animal Bond Benchmark Survey of Americans and an executive summary are available through HABRI resources. This online survey was conducted with a U.S. nationally representative sample of adults 18+ years old.

About HABRI

HABRI is a not-for-profit organization that funds innovative scientific research to document the health benefits of companion animals; educates the public about human-animal bond research; and advocates for the beneficial role of companion animals in society.

SOURCE Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI)