Human Animal Interaction
Mars landmark global pets and wellbeing study program launched
Mars announces launch of its Pets and Wellbeing Study (PAWS) program – a scientific research program led by Waltham Petcare Science Institute, set to be the largest ever investigation into the impact of pets on human mental health and wellbeing
Welfare and Behaviour
Does CBD help cats deal with stress?
New study investigates the impact of cannabidiol (CBD) on cats as they experience a stressful event: travelling in a carrier to meet an unknown person in an unfamiliar environment.
Welfare and Behaviour
Microbiome
Healthy skin, healthy dogs
A new study provides the first in-depth understanding of the canine skin microbiome – and uncovers a ‘comprehensive map’ of microbes that influence skin health.
As any veterinary professional or dog owner will know, skin conditions – such as canine atopic dermatitis - can drastically affect a dog’s wellbeing. From discomfort to trouble sleeping to stress, unhealthy skin can have a huge impact on a dog’s overall quality of life.1
Human Animal Interaction
Canine companionship and the loneliness epidemic
New research shows the power of therapy dogs in combatting loneliness in older age.
Research has shown us that loneliness is far more than feeling alone. It is a serious health threat, comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day and potentially more dangerous than obesity. In fact, loneliness has been associated with a 26% increase in the risk of mortality.
Loneliness is also linked to an increased risk of mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety.
Human Animal Interaction
Better in mind and body
New published research examines the role strong bonds between older adults and their pets in maintaining physical and cognitive health
A recently published study, supported by Waltham Petcare Science Institute - Pet Attachment and Maintenance of Physical and Cognitive Function – suggests closer bonds between people and their pets may help support healthier ageing, slowing down both physical and cognitive decline.
Human Animal Interaction
Dr Vanessa Ashall in Conversation with … Prof Carri Westgarth
At Waltham Petcare Science Institute, we have been supporting and partnering with leading universities and research organisations worldwide. Our aim has always been to help advance our scientific understanding of human-animal interaction (HAI) and how pet ownership or pet interaction can bring health benefits to both pets and people. All aligned to our purpose: A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS.
Human Animal Interaction
Children, dogs and oxytocin: a breakthrough in HAI research
At the Waltham Petcare Science Institute (WPSI), we are dedicated to advancing scientific understanding of human-animal interaction (HAI).
Oral Health
A new way to detect canine periodontal disease?
Latest studies add to growing evidence in support of molecular screening tests
At Waltham Petcare Science Institute, we are at the forefront of key research into the oral microbiome; identifying and defining the important role it plays in gum disease and the overall systemic health of cats and dogs.
Now, our latest study, published by Frontiers in Veterinary Science, has confirmed that the oral microbiome holds information that could help support early disease detection and improve pets' quality of life.
Human Animal Interaction
The stress-buffering effects of child-dog interactions
Our latest Human-Animal Interaction (HAI) research highlights the important role that dogs play in children's lives.
While previous research has investigated the calming effects of dogs during stressful situations for children, this new study more closely mimicked the type of interactions that children experience with dogs in their daily lives.