95. The Science of the Human–Animal Bond with Dr. Patricia McConnell & HABI’s Lindsay Braun

In this heartwarming and thought-provoking holiday episode of the Pets Add Life Podcast, hosts Chris Bonifati and Kristen Levine explore what truly connects humans and animals. From the emotional language of dogs to groundbreaking research on the human–animal bond, this episode dives deep into the love, trust, and science behind our relationship with pets.

Story Time features: Chris shares findings from a new study showing that children who grow up around dogs — but not necessarily cats — may develop stronger immunity to pet allergies. Researchers found that early exposure to dogs helps build resistance to certain allergens, while cats do not have the same effect.

Kristen highlights a new industry survey revealing what pet parents really want from their veterinarians — better communication, collaboration, and more time during appointments. The study also shows how veterinary medicine is evolving to meet the expectations of proactive, informed pet owners who see pets as family.

Special Guests: Dr. Patricia McConnell, Animal Behaviorist, Author & Professor Emeritus, University of Wisconsin–Madison

Lindsay Braun, Vice President of Research & Operations, Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI)

Pet Product Recommendations: PetSmart Pre-Stuffed Cat Stocking (24 Toys) – https://www.petsmart.com

Holiday Cat Tunnel (Tree Skirt Style) – https://amzn.to/3LoEHbV

Q&A Topics: Do fish recognize their owners or respond to human interaction? (Submitted by Noah from Tampa, FL)

Is there real science behind the idea that pets make people healthier and happier? (Submitted by Eli from Boston, MA)

Related Links: Dr. Patricia McConnell Official Site: https://www.patriciamcconnell.com HABRI (Human Animal Bond Research Institute): https://www.habri.org American Pet Products Association (APPA): https://www.americanpetproducts.org DOGTV Unleashed FAST Channel: https://www.dogtv.com/unleashed Pets Add Life: https://www.petsaddlife.org

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Submit a question to the podcast: https://www.petsaddlife.org/podcast

Presented by: American Pet Products Association (APPA) & DOGTV