Connect with us

Technology

Human-Animal Bond Reaches New High as the Science on the Health Benefits of Pets Goes Mainstream

Published

on

HABRI’s 2026 Human-Animal Bond Benchmark Survey finds rise in pet ownership connected to research-backed health benefits

WASHINGTON, Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) today announced the results of its new benchmark survey of Americans showing that the health benefits of pet ownership are widely experienced and well known. Ninety-eight percent of pet owners reported at least one health benefit from pet ownership, and 62% of all Americans (pet owners and non-pet owners alike) have had a conversation about the health benefits of pets. These conversations have led to widespread awareness, with 97% of all Americans saying they are aware of at least one researched-backed health benefit of pet ownership.

The survey also found that 74% of Americans now own at least one pet, and another 15% intend to get one. Pet owners now have more pets than ever, with 64% reporting multi-pet households. The survey measured an average of three pets per household across all pet types, and an average of 2.2 pets per household when just counting dogs and cats.

“Nine in ten Americans either have a pet or want one, driven by the understanding that the bonds we share with our pets are good for our health,” said Steven Feldman, President of HABRI. “HABRI’s data provides evidence of a cultural tipping point, even those that don’t own pets understand their benefits and want communities and businesses to support pet ownership.”

Support for pet-inclusive policies across society is broad. Among all Americans, 83% said public spaces should be pet friendly; 81% said they would be more likely to buy products and services from pet-friendly businesses; and 80% say there should be fewer restrictions on pets in rental housing.

The Mental Health Benefits of Pets are Common Knowledge

The average American is aware of 18 different health benefits of pets, compared with 12 in 2021, the last time HABRI conducted this survey. The most widely recognized benefits are:

Easing loneliness (92%)Reducing depression (89%)Reducing stress (88%)Helping people cope with difficult life situations (87%)

Knowledge of the Science Means Better Care for Pets

Knowing about the scientific research on the human-animal bond encourages positive pet care actions among current pet owners.

94% agree that knowledge of the research on the health benefits of pets makes them more likely to spend more time with their pets91% agree that knowledge of the research on the health benefits of pets makes them more likely to maintain their pets’ health, including regular check-ups with their veterinarian88% said that knowledge of the research on the health benefits of pets makes them more likely to provide their pets with high-quality nutrition91% said that knowledge of the research on the health benefits of pets makes them more likely to take better care of their pet overall

In addition, the strength of the bond shapes how people care for their pets. Pet owners with the strongest bonds are more likely to: have a veterinarian (94% vs. 86%) and keep up with preventive care such as vaccinations (84% vs. 77%).

Future Pet Owners are Driven by the Bond

The 15% of Americans who plan to get a pet in the future are motivated by what the human-animal bond will add to their lives: companionship (87%), emotional support (74%), less loneliness (71%), better mental health (68%) and better physical health (55%). Family life is a key driver of pet ownership as well, with 77% of parents saying that their children wanted pets.

For near-term pet acquisition, among those who said they planned to get a pet in the next six months, 81% had discussed the health benefits of pets and 73% said that someone had recommended that they get a pet for improved health.

Showing a strong outlook for dog ownership, future pet owners expressed their intention to acquire dogs (79%), cats (38%), fish (11%), small animals (10%), and birds (2%). Current pet owners who intend to add another pet in the future expressed a much stronger interest in cat acquisition (54%), with interest in acquiring dogs (58%), fish (11%), small animals (6%), and birds (7%).

Pet fostering was also shown to be a potential driver of pet ownership. Not only were 50% of all Americans interested in fostering, but 37% of future pet owners would consider fostering to see whether a specific pet is a good fit for them.

Barriers to Pet Ownership

Housing that prohibits or restricts pets is a significant structural barrier for potential pet owners, with almost one third (29%) worried about the challenge of finding pet-friendly housing. More than a quarter of potential pet owners who rent (27%) cited housing restrictions as a reason they don’t have a pet. In addition, 31% of current pet owners that rent reported housing-related challenges and 14% reported that they had changed housing in order to get a pet.

Future pet owners point to the overall cost of pet ownership (37%) as a barrier to pet ownership. Thirty-six percent (36%) say they are waiting until the time is right to get a pet, showing a thoughtful approach to pet acquisition. This desire to be prepared also shows up with 52% of future pet owners being worried about the emotional toll of leaving their pets for an extended period of time and 33% who are concerned about balancing pet care with work and other responsibilities.

The survey shows that preparation by future pet owners is strongly connected to having an easier time once they get a pet, including research on the type of pet and the lifetime cost of having a pet. And once they have a pet, regular contact with a veterinarian is closely associated with pet owner success.

“HABRI is showing how deeply the human-animal bond is woven into our lives, which is why we need to help ensure that the benefits are available to all,” Feldman added. “The survey points to clear ways we can better support that bond, including making society more pet-inclusive and helping new and existing pet owners to prepare for and enjoy an enriching life with pets.”

About the Survey

The full 2026 Human-Animal Bond Benchmark Survey of Americans and an executive summary are available at habri.org/pet-owners-survey. This online survey was conducted with a U.S. nationally representative of sample of adults 18+ years old.

About HABRI

HABRI is a not-for-profit organization that funds innovative scientific research to document the health benefits of companion animals; educates the public about human-animal bond research; and advocates for the beneficial role of companion animals in society. For more information, please visit www.habri.org.

CONTACT:

Hayley Maynard

614-701-8205

hayleym@aboutinspire.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/human-animal-bond-reaches-new-high-as-the-science-on-the-health-benefits-of-pets-goes-mainstream-302912943.html

SOURCE Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI)

Continue Reading

Technology

Central Holidays Invites Travelers to Discover the Warmth and Wonders of Central & South America with Exclusive Added-Value Travel Offer

Published

on

By

— Award-winning travel brand showcases immersive, customizable journeys to
Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Peru and Ecuador, featuring a complimentary
guided experience valued at up to $399 per person —

MOONACHIE, N.J., Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As travelers look to trade colder days this fall and winter for sunshine, spectacular landscapes, and new adventures, Central Holidays is shining the spotlight on the amazing diversity of Central and South America, inviting travel advisors and their clients to discover a world of unforgettable experiences with the ultimate in destination expertise and an exclusive added-value travel offer. The award-winning travel brand, renowned for more than five decades of destination specialists delivering meticulously crafted travel programs, is offering a complimentary guided experience valued at up to $399 per person on qualifying bookings to Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Peru, and Ecuador.

From the rhythm and romance of Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro to the lush rainforests of Costa Rica, the ancient wonders of Peru, and the remarkable biodiversity of Ecuador, Central Holidays presents a captivating collection of travel opportunities that pair some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations with its signature approach to personalized, affordable-luxury travel.

For travelers seeking an escape from the colder months in North America, these destinations offer an enticing combination of seasonal warmth, cultural discovery, outdoor adventure, and authentic local experiences. While weather varies by region and elevation, much of South America welcomes its warmer season as winter arrives in the United States, creating exceptional opportunities for travelers to discover these remarkable countries from a different seasonal perspective.

“Central and South America offer an incredible range of travel experiences, and that’s what makes these destinations so exciting for travel advisors and their clients,” said Adam Greis, General Manager of Central Holidays. “Within this extraordinary region, travelers can discover everything from fascinating ancient civilizations and magnificent natural wonders to sophisticated cities, spectacular beaches, and incredible culinary traditions. Our destination specialists bring all these elements together to create personalized journeys that reflect each traveler’s interests. With this special offer, we’re adding even more value while giving advisors an outstanding opportunity to introduce their clients to destinations they may not have previously considered.”

Five Extraordinary Destinations. Endless Possibilities.
Central Holidays’ expansive Central and South America portfolio brings together iconic attractions and immersive experiences that reveal the unique personality of each destination.

Argentina – A World of Passion, Culture and Natural Wonders
From the European-inspired boulevards and tango traditions of Buenos Aires to the breathtaking beauty of Patagonia and the thundering cascades of Iguazú Falls, Argentina delivers an irresistible blend of cosmopolitan sophistication and beautiful naturescapes. Travelers can explore renowned wine regions, savor authentic Argentine cuisine, and discover the country’s rich cultural heritage through thoughtfully designed experiences.Brazil – Where Nature, Culture and Celebration Come Together
Brazil captivates from the start with its dazzling combination of golden beaches, tropical landscapes, and lively energy. From the iconic sights of Rio de Janeiro, including Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer, to the spectacular Brazilian side of Iguazú Falls, the country’s vibrant music, and culinary traditions, Central Holidays offers opportunities to experience the distinctive spirit of this remarkable destination.Costa Rica – A Tropical Paradise for Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers
For travelers dreaming of lush landscapes and outdoor adventure, Costa Rica offers an enchanting escape into one of the world’s most biodiverse destinations. Discover verdant rainforests, magnificent volcanoes, wildlife-rich national parks, and inviting Pacific and Caribbean coastlines. From exhilarating adventures to relaxing nature retreats, Costa Rica presents a wealth of opportunities for families, couples, and groups seeking meaningful connections with the great outdoors and beyond.Peru – Ancient Civilizations, Culinary Treasures, and Breathtaking Landscapes
Few destinations combine history, culture, natural beauty, and world-class gastronomy quite like Peru. Travelers can follow in the footsteps of the Incas through the Sacred Valley and legendary Machu Picchu, discover the vibrant culinary scenes of Lima and Cusco, and savor innovative cuisine and authentic regional flavors that have earned Peru international acclaim as a premier culinary destination. Central Holidays’ destination specialists bring Peru’s extraordinary heritage and rich culinary traditions to life through immersive experiences that go far beyond conventional sightseeing.Ecuador – Extraordinary Biodiversity and Authentic Cultural Encounters
Small in size yet remarkable in diversity, Ecuador offers a fascinating combination of colonial cities, dramatic Andean landscapes, colorful indigenous markets, and extraordinary wildlife experiences. Quito was recognized in the 2026 World Travel Awards (WTA) as South America’s Leading City Destination and Leading Cultural City Destination, further highlighting its rich cultural heritage, historic charm, and growing appeal as a must-visit destination in South America. From the historic heart of Quito to the natural wonders of the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador invites travelers to discover a destination filled with memorable encounters and striking contrasts.

Exclusive Added Value: Complimentary Guided Experience Worth Up to $399 Per Person
To encourage travelers to explore the region, Central Holidays is featuring a special Fall 2026 Central & South America Offer that includes a complimentary guided experience valued at up to $399 per person on qualifying vacations to Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Peru, or Ecuador.

The added-value experience offers travel advisors another compelling selling point when recommending these destinations, enhancing the overall vacation experience while providing additional value for their clients.

Travel advisors can explore the promotion and applicable booking details via this link.

Helping Travel Advisors Turn Destination Expertise into Business Opportunities
With Central and South America’s extraordinary diversity comes the need for knowledgeable planning, carefully coordinated travel arrangements, and trusted local expertise. Central Holidays works alongside travel advisors as an extension of their own teams, providing the specialized destination knowledge and comprehensive planning resources needed to create seamless, memorable vacations.

From customized independent travel and private guided experiences to multigenerational vacations, special-interest groups, and fully tailored group journeys, the company’s destination specialists help advisors bring even the most intricate travel requests to life. Central Holidays’ experienced professionals coordinate accommodations, transportation, sightseeing, and other essential travel arrangements, supported by established destination partnerships and local resources.

For group travel planners, the region offers particularly exciting possibilities. Culinary and wine enthusiasts can discover Argentina’s celebrated vineyards, nature-focused groups can explore Costa Rica’s extraordinary biodiversity, and cultural or educational organizations can build immersive journeys around Peru’s ancient civilizations or Ecuador’s remarkable heritage.

By bringing together destination expertise, itinerary development, customization, and comprehensive travel planning, Central Holidays helps advisors confidently expand their offerings into markets where specialized knowledge and reliable local connections can make all the difference.

“Travel advisors shouldn’t have to become experts in every destination around the world to deliver extraordinary experiences for their clients,” added Greis. “That’s where our team comes in. We provide the destination insight, planning expertise, and trusted local relationships that help advisors confidently develop highly personalized travel programs. Whether it’s a couple planning their life-list, dream experience or an organization bringing together a group of travelers with shared interests, we work behind the scenes to make the advisor shine. Their success is our success, and that’s a partnership we’ve believed in since Central Holidays was founded.”

A World of Discovery, Backed by More Than 50 Years of Experience
Established in 1972, Central Holidays continues to build upon its longstanding reputation for creating thoughtfully planned travel experiences that combine exceptional value, personalized service, and authentic destination discovery.

With its extensive portfolio throughout Central and South America, the company invites travel advisors and group planners to explore new opportunities to grow their businesses while introducing travelers to destinations filled with inspiration, adventure, and lasting memories.

For additional information about Central Holidays’ Central and South America programs and the current special offer, travel advisors can contact request@centralholidays.com or call 1-800-935-5000. Advisors interested in expanding their business with Central Holidays can contact Margie Bell, Travel Industry Sales Vice President, at mbell@centralholidays.com.

About Central Holidays:
Founded in 1972, Central Holidays is an award-winning travel brand that offers superior travel programs, value, and service to enchanting destinations across Italy, Europe, Egypt, Africa, West Asia, and Latin America. As true destination specialists, this leader in travel offers an expansive range of Independent, Escorted, Hosted, and Land/Cruise itineraries. Central Holidays presents a wide array of diverse travel opportunities including cultural programs, culinary adventures, family vacations, romantic getaways, and active travel. Group Travel Experiences are a hallmark of the company, offering special interest travel, religious pilgrimages, and fully customized programs. Their newest brand, Journeys by Central Holidays, was created to orchestrate tailor-made travel experiences that redefine luxury. Central Holidays remains at the forefront of the tourism and travel industry, offering distinctive travel programs that support brand promises of reliability, expertise, and flexibility. For more information, contact Central Holidays at 1-800-935-5000 or visit centralholidays.com. 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/central-holidays-invites-travelers-to-discover-the-warmth-and-wonders-of-central–south-america-with-exclusive-added-value-travel-offer-302915075.html

SOURCE Central Holidays

Continue Reading

Technology

Asymbl Opens Austin Headquarters as AI Takes On More Work

Published

on

By

Fully remote in North America until now, the company will concentrate its North American hiring in Austin, betting that as AI takes on more work, in-person relationships matter even more.

AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Asymbl, The Workforce Orchestration Company™, opened its Austin headquarters Oct. 19 at 1515 E. Cesar Chavez St., its first office in the city where it has been based since its launch. The company, which has operated fully remotely in North America until now, will focus its North American hiring in Austin.

The office opens with 14 employees, and everyone in Austin works there full time. The space initially seats 40 people, with room to add more as the team grows, and is home base for Asymbl’s sales, marketing, customer success and people operations teams. Asymbl has about 120 employees worldwide and more than 200 digital workers. It has six open roles in Austin, primarily in sales and account management. The office is its first U.S. hub and its second overall, after Jaipur, India.

Working remotely served Asymbl well as it rapidly grew, letting it hire talented people wherever they lived. As the team scaled, aligning departments, developing people and building shared context became harder to do from a distance. Asymbl’s team moves quickly, and keeping that pace depends on trust, strong relationships, alignment and focus.

Over the past several years, Asymbl has developed Workforce Orchestration™ inside its own business, bringing people, AI and software together as one workforce. That experience has shown that the more digital workers take on, the more its people’s judgment, relationships and ability to learn from one another matter. The Austin office is an investment in those strengths, and Asymbl plans to keep expanding both its human team and its use of AI and digital labor.

“Investing in our people is just as critical as investing in our digital workforce,” said Brandon Metcalf, CEO and founder of Asymbl. “Our people learn and deliver faster when they’re working alongside each other. The side conversations are where relationships deepen and trust gets built, and that’s what lets us move faster for our customers. Austin is where we’re going to grow, and this office lets us focus on developing our people.”

The headquarters is designed for in-person collaboration. New hires in Austin onboard alongside the teammates they will work with, and junior and mid-level employees work next to experienced colleagues every day. Asymbl plans to grow its Austin team steadily.

“Having our sales, marketing and customer success teams together in one place means quicker answers for our customers and a team that’s aligned on what they need,” said Greg Symons, president and founder of Asymbl. “It makes us a better partner to them.”

Current employees outside the Austin area will continue to work remotely. The headquarters gives them a central hub to visit and work with colleagues in person.

About Asymbl

Asymbl, The Workforce Orchestration Company™, brings people, AI and software together as one workforce, primarily for staffing and recruiting firms. Its mission is to elevate people, increase productivity and grow profits while making work more meaningful for everyone involved. The company develops the software, puts AI to work and provides the consulting expertise to orchestrate it all. Its team has spent decades in the staffing industry and more than 20 years working in the Salesforce ecosystem. Asymbl’s customers range from Fortune 100 companies to small and midsize businesses. Launched in 2023, the company is headquartered in Austin, Texas, with a workforce of about 120 people and more than 200 digital workers. Learn more at www.asymbl.com or LinkedIn.

Media Contact

Brad Schechter, Senior Director, Marketing
press@asymbl.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/asymbl-opens-austin-headquarters-as-ai-takes-on-more-work-302914441.html

SOURCE Asymbl, Inc.

Continue Reading

Technology

CGI selected to join PCI Security Standards Council Global Executive Assessor Roundtable

Published

on

By

CGI will bring client and assessor perspectives to discussions
advancing payment security standards and practices

FAIRFAX, Va., Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CGI (NYSE: GIB) (TSX: GIB.A), one of the world’s largest independent technology and professional services firms, today announced its selection to join the PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) 2026–2028 Global Executive Assessor Roundtable (GEAR), as one of 33 organizations selected globally to provide industry, geographic and technical insights that help advance payment security standards and practices.

PCI SSC works with financial organizations to help secure payment data and trains and qualifies thousands of assessors each year to support the appropriate adoption and implementation of PCI security standards. GEAR provides a direct channel for communication between payment security assessor organizations and PCI SSC senior leadership.

“The Global Executive Assessor Roundtable brings together experienced industry leaders whose expertise and perspectives help guide the continued evolution of PCI security standards and programs,” said Gina Gobeyn, Executive Director of PCI SSC. “We look forward to working with CGI as we continue advancing our shared mission of helping organizations protect payment data around the world.”

“CGI’s selection to join the PCI Security Standards Council’s Global Executive Assessor Roundtable reflects our longstanding commitment to helping clients protect critical payment data and strengthen cybersecurity across increasingly complex technology environments,” said Steve Wojtowecz, Senior Vice-President, Global Technology Operations at CGI. “The PCI Security Standards Council plays an essential role in bringing the global payments ecosystem together around trusted, consistent and effective security standards. We look forward to contributing CGI’s experience and client perspectives to this important work and to collaborating with industry leaders in advancing payment security practices worldwide.”

GEAR members serve as strategic partners to PCI SSC, contributing insights on behalf of the assessor community to Council plans and projects. For CGI clients, the company’s participation provides an additional connection to the global dialogue surrounding payment security. CGI will engage in discussions with PCI SSC leadership about programs, guidance and assessment practices, while contributing perspectives informed by its work with organizations navigating payment security requirements.

“Our participation in the Global Executive Assessor Roundtable gives CGI an opportunity to bring the real-world experiences of assessors and clients into important industry discussions,” said Rosemary Monroe, Director, Consulting Delivery for Global PCI Services within CGI’s U.S. Global Technology Operations, who will serve as CGI’s primary representative. “By engaging directly with PCI SSC leadership and other members of the global assessor community, we can contribute insights that help strengthen payment security programs and practices while helping our clients better understand and respond to an evolving security landscape.”

About CGI

Founded in 1976, CGI is among the largest independent technology and professional services firms in the world. With 94,000 consultants and professionals across the globe, CGI delivers an end-to-end portfolio of capabilities, from strategic IT and business consulting to systems integration, managed IT and business process services and intellectual property solutions. CGI works with clients through a local relationship model complemented by a global delivery network that helps clients digitally transform their organizations and accelerate results. CGI Fiscal 2025 reported revenue is CA$15.91 billion and CGI shares are listed on the TSX (GIB.A) and the NYSE (GIB). Learn more at cgi.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cgi-selected-to-join-pci-security-standards-council-global-executive-assessor-roundtable-302915426.html

SOURCE CGI Technologies and Solutions, Inc.

Continue Reading

Trending