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Discover how pets can transform your daily work routine, boost team morale, and even make Mondays something to look forward to. Steven Feldman, president of the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), explains the science, shares practical solutions, and answers audience questions on embracing pet-friendly policies and benefits no matter where you work.
Related to this Episode
Pet Insurance Policy Template
The following policy template is meant to serve as a framework for your organization’s pet insurance benefit. Customize the template in areas marked in italics, and make sure to remove or add anything as necessary for your pet benefit offering.
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Podcast Episode Guest
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Steven Feldman
JSteven 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.
Steven was the 2025 recipient of the World Pet Association Pawsitive Impact Award for his significant contributions to the pet care community. He serves as liaison to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Steering Committee on Human-Animal Interaction, developing resources to help veterinarians strengthen the human-animal bond. Steven is also a regular contributor to PetMD and a chapter co-author of the Handbook on Animal-Assisted Therapy.
Steven is an experienced non-profit 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, developing 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 C-suite counselor to Fortune 500 companies. He also served as a staff member in the United States Senate. This combination of skills and experience helps him advocate for the human-animal bond and pet-inclusive polices where we live, work and play.
He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Affairs and a Master’s Degree in Political Management from The George Washington University.
Feature Story
A growing number of companies are viewing pet benefits with a much wider lens, thinking beyond pet insurance to “pawternity” leave, pet bereavement leave, and more.
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