NAVC Human-Animal Bond Certification

Research studies have proven that owning a pet improves a person’s physical and mental health. Given the events of the last few years, the human-animal bond has never been stronger, or more important to pet owners. We designed this course in partnership with the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) with educational support from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) in 2018 to help explain what the bond is, how it works, and to demonstrate the role of the veterinary healthcare team in supporting and strengthening its effects. Please note this course is a video-based program with a three-phase structure, we have also enhanced the program with new content to include sections on after-euthanasia, access to care, telemedicine, and the veterinary nurse perspective. Comprehensive Course Outline: Phase 1: The foundation focuses on the science and animal welfare that is the cornerstone of the Human-Animal Bond. In this section, learners will develop an understanding of the neurological mechanisms fundamental to the bond, the specific, scientific benefits of owning a pet, and the health benefits generated by distinct types of human-animal interactions. The module also includes content provided by our educational sponsor, AVMA on the three domains of animal welfare, how to perform certain assessments, and the important role that animal welfare plays in the human-animal bond. Phase 2: The application walks participants through the steps and benefits of incorporating the HAB principles into a practice’s daily operations. Highlights of the section include protocols to maximize doctor-client interactions, tips on how to identify and eliminate elements that hinder the Human-Animal Bond during a visit, recommendations on how nurses can help support the bond, and the HAB approach to end-of-life care. Phase 3: Ongoing support of the Bond focuses on providing information on understanding access to care issues, the importance of community engagement, and basic marketing skills to highlight your practice. The content draws on key market data and HAB philosophies to teach learners how to promote positive health and well-being in the community, how to identify organizations that share the views and commitment to the Human-Animal Bond and outlines barriers to veterinary care and ways to overcome them. Learners must complete an 18-hour On Demand Certification course and pass a timed exam with a score of at least 70%.