Purina has awarded a total of $120,000 in research grants to three scientific teams from the United States and Hungary. This initiative, part of the 2026 Purina Sponsorship for Human-Animal Bond Studies program, aims to enhance understanding of the bond between pets and people, particularly in ways that impact overall well-being.
Each selected project will receive up to $40,000 to explore various aspects of the human-animal relationship. This year’s research focuses on how pets can support survivor healing, promote child well-being, and improve feline mental health. The studies reflect Purina’s dedication to fostering collaboration and generating valuable insights that benefit both animals and their human companions.
Research Focus Areas and Goals
Dr. Annie Valuska, a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist and Principal Scientist at Purina, emphasized the significance of these studies. “Science is most impactful when it is shared,” she stated. “We are committed not only to advancing the study of the human-pet bond through our in-house research, but also by supporting investigators around the world who share our passion for improving the lives of pets and the people who love them.”
Purina reviewed over 100 proposals to select this year’s grant recipients, prioritizing studies that address how the human-animal bond supports individuals in vulnerable situations. By examining these connections, researchers hope to uncover insights that lead to more effective interventions and improved resources for those who rely on their pets for emotional and behavioral support.
One of the grant recipients, Dr. Jennifer A. Wagman, an Associate Professor at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “Receiving this research grant from Purina is an honor for our team,” she said. “The grant will provide crucial support to study how pets can help survivors of intimate partner violence heal, while also ensuring that the animals themselves are safe and supported.”
Impact of Previous Research and Future Commitments
Since its inception in 2016, the Purina Sponsorship for Human-Animal Bond Studies program has allocated a total of $1.2 million to support a diverse range of international studies. Previous projects have explored various topics, including the genetics behind canine “hyper-sociability” and the effects of touch on the well-being of both dogs and humans.
Purina’s commitment to research extends beyond these grants. The company invests over $100 million annually into research aimed at improving pet health and nutrition. This ongoing investment underscores Purina’s mission to enhance the lives of pets and their owners globally.
Purina manufactures some of the most trusted pet care products worldwide, including Dog Chow, Purina ONE, Pro Plan, Friskies, and Tidy Cats. With a team of nearly 500 pet experts, including nutritionists, behaviorists, and veterinarians, the company is dedicated to ensuring the quality and nutritional value of its offerings.
In the past five years, Purina has contributed more than $150 million towards initiatives that strengthen the bond between people and pets, as well as programs that support community well-being. As part of Nestlé, a global leader in nutrition, health, and wellness, Purina continues to drive advancements in understanding the human-animal bond on an international scale.
For more information about Purina’s initiatives and the impact of its research, visit purina.com.
