The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) has funded a study led by Professor Carri Westgarth at the University of Liverpool to explore the health and wellbeing effects of adopting small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters from shelters. This research, involving 30 initial interviews and a six-month study tracking 450 new adopters, will assess physical, mental, and social health outcomes while highlighting the human-animal bond. Steven Feldman of HABRI emphasized the need for inclusive research across all pet species, and Fiona Cooke of Woodgreen Pets Charity noted that the findings will enhance adoption support and strengthen efforts to keep pets in loving homes.
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