SPEAKERS AND SESSIONS
Leveraging the Human-Animal Bond for Growth and Success
Thursday, October 24, 2024
10:30 a.m. – 11:05 p.m.
The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) studies the positive impact of companion animals for human health and wellbeing. Attendees will learn about this important research and how it can change consumer behavior, focusing on the areas of veterinary medicine and pet health insurance.
Building off of this foundational research, Steven will share groundbreaking survey data on pet-inclusive workplaces, including a new PetPartners-sponsored survey of HR professionals conducted earlier this year. This session will reveal the priorities of HR professionals, their commitment to the human-animal bond, and how pet insurance fits into the HR picture.
Armed with this information, what can we do as an industry to spur growth? Learn about how we can leverage the science of the human-animal bond to support success for all!
Presenter
Steven Feldman
President – HABRI
Steven Feldman is the President of the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI). His mission is to advance the science that demonstrates the positive roles that pets and other animals play in the integrated health of individuals, families and communities.
Steven is an experienced public affairs advocate who has worked in the areas of wildlife conservation, animal welfare, healthcare and education. Prior to joining HABRI, Steve served as senior vice president for external affairs for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. He also worked at Powell Tate, a leading public affairs firm, and as a staff member in the United States Senate.
Steven Feldman is the President of the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI). As the leader of the only research organization focused solely on the human-animal bond, he has developed significant expertise in communicating the science of human-animal interaction and its practical application in society.
He is frequently published and quoted on all things related to the human-animal bond and the important role of pets in society. He is proud of his role as a chapter co-author for the Handbook on Animal-Assisted Therapy. He also helps the world’s largest therapy animal organization, Pet Partners, develop research-based best practices as a member of their Human-Animal Bond Advisory Board. Steven serves as liaison to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Steering Committee on Human-Animal Interaction, helping develop policies and resources to help veterinarians strengthen the human-animal bond.
Steven is an experienced non-profit executive, strategist, and coalition builder with a deep understanding of the policy-making process. Prior to joining HABRI, Steven helped lead the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, growing the organization, serving as the spokesman for zoos and aquariums around the world, and developing significant expertise in wildlife conservation and animal welfare. Prior to this, he worked at Powell Tate, a leading public affairs firm, where he served as a counselor to many Fortune 500 companies. He also served as a staff member in the United States Senate, working for the Chairman of the Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.
Steven holds a bachelor’s degree in International Affairs and a master’s degree in Political Management from George Washington University. He has a cat named Winifred, and a wife and two children.