In today’s digital age, technology is reshaping nearly every aspect of daily life—including how people care for, connect with, and understand their pets. A new study from the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) and Chewy Health sheds light on how innovative tools are transforming modern pet ownership and deepening the emotional connection between humans and animals.
The Pet Health Challenges Study, based on a nationally representative survey of over 2,000 U.S. dog and cat owners, provides one of the most detailed portraits yet of how technology and trust intersect in veterinary care. The findings reveal not only the strength of the human–animal bond but also the growing role of tech-forward solutions in making pet care more affordable, accessible, and emotionally rewarding.
The Strongest Bond Ever Recorded
The study found that the human–animal bond has reached record levels, with 97% of pet owners saying their pet is part of the family and 77% calling their pet their best friend. Perhaps most significantly, nine in ten respondents said their pet has improved their mental or physical health.
But this bond is not just emotional—it directly influences behavior. Pet owners with stronger bonds are more likely to visit the vet regularly, use pet health technology, and invest in solutions that enhance their animal’s wellbeing. In other words, the closer the bond, the more proactive and tech-savvy the owner becomes.
“Supporting strong human–animal bonds requires a holistic approach to pet care,” said Steven Feldman, President of HABRI. “Veterinary teams are at the center of this discussion. When the veterinary–client relationship is strong, and enhanced by technology, it forms the foundation for successful pet care across the board.”
Communication, Trust, and the Tech Advantage
While most pet owners report deep satisfaction with their veterinarians, the study highlights a critical factor in maintaining that satisfaction: communication. Pet owners who could connect with their vet through multiple channels—such as in-person visits, phone calls, texting, and telehealth—reported significantly higher levels of trust and satisfaction.
The ability to reach veterinary professionals conveniently, and in formats that fit modern lifestyles, builds confidence and reduces stress. According to the study, 82% of owners find it challenging to fully understand their pet’s health needs, which suggests that clear communication and digital support tools—like mobile apps, video consultations, or symptom checkers—can help bridge critical knowledge gaps.
“This research opens up a host of opportunities for veterinary teams to connect more deeply with pet owners,” said Mita Malhotra, President of Chewy Health. “At Chewy Health, we’re focused on empowering veterinarians with technology that enables personalized, compassionate care. When pet owners feel supported and informed, everyone benefits—especially the pets.”
Modern Pet Ownership: Joys and Challenges
Despite the record strength of the human–animal bond, modern pet ownership is not without challenges. Seventy-four percent of survey participants reported finding at least one aspect of pet care “very” or “extremely” difficult. The study identified seven key challenge areas that reflect the complex, interconnected nature of life with pets today:
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The emotional toll of leaving pets alone
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Accessing and affording veterinary and health care
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Ensuring quality of life
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Managing pet behavior
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Securing pet-inclusive housing
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Covering the cost of care and services
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Traveling with pets
The top concern across all demographics was the emotional difficulty of being away from pets—a finding that underscores how deeply integrated animals have become in daily life. Solutions such as pet cameras, trusted sitters, and real-time check-in tools are helping to ease that anxiety and maintain connection even when owners are apart.
Affordability was the second most significant concern, particularly for younger and lower-income households. About 35% of households earning under $60,000 and 34% of multi-pet owners listed veterinary costs as their greatest stressor. While interest in pet insurance and discount programs is strong, actual usage remains low—suggesting an opportunity for education and innovation in financial tools that make care more accessible.
Tech Adoption and Generational Shifts
The study revealed that younger generations, especially Gen Z, are leading the way in adopting pet tech. They report higher levels of care-related stress but also greater openness to technological solutions. On average, Gen Z pet owners use 3.6 pet health tools, ranging from smart feeders and robotic litter boxes to wearables and telehealth services.
Pet owners with the strongest bonds were more than twice as likely to adopt technology compared to those with weaker connections. Willingness to use digital solutions rose sharply for tools focused on affording (45%), finding (44%), and managing (43%) veterinary care.
These findings suggest that as the next generation of pet owners takes center stage, technology will become an expected—not optional—part of the pet care experience.
A New Era for Veterinary Care
For veterinarians, this shift represents both a challenge and an opportunity. The future of pet care will likely involve hybrid models that combine in-clinic expertise with digital convenience. From AI-powered health monitoring to teleconsultations and real-time updates, technology is helping veterinary teams build stronger, more responsive relationships with their clients.
To help professionals navigate this transition, Chewy Health and HABRI have created “The Bond Factor,” a guide that applies insights from the study into actionable steps for improving the veterinary–client relationship. The guide emphasizes empathy, communication, and accessible care as the cornerstones of a healthier, more connected pet community.
“These findings encourage us to rethink how care is delivered, particularly for younger, highly bonded pet owners,” said Malhotra. “Beyond cost, what matters most to them is access to care that feels personal and empathetic.”
The Future: Connection as Care
Ultimately, the study highlights a simple but powerful truth: technology cannot replace the emotional bond between people and their pets, but it can enhance it. Tools that make communication clearer, care more affordable, and pet health more transparent will continue to shape the next chapter of the human–animal relationship.
“HABRI and Chewy Health are committed to strengthening that bond,” Feldman said. “By understanding what pet owners need and how they engage with technology, we can prepare both the veterinary profession and the pet health industry for the future of compassionate, connected care.”
As the human–animal bond grows ever stronger, technology will serve not as a barrier, but as a bridge—bringing people and pets closer than ever before.
