The Bob Harvey Award, jointly created by The Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS) and Fostering Compassion, recognises a care home, hospital, hospice, or care facility that has gone above and beyond the call of duty to keep older people and their companion animals together.

Nominations are welcomed from anyone who is aware of any facility (anywhere in the world) worthy of consideration. The winner will be chosen by a panel of experts and will be announced at the annual SCAS conference on 20 October 2024.

Download a nomination form here

Read more about the Bob Harvey Award below. The story of Bob and his little dog Darcie illustrates why it is so very important to protect the human-companion animal bond.

The use of ‘no pet’ covenants in private rental housing is a contentious subject in the UK and many other countries. In a new article by Dr. Debbie Rook and Prof. Brinda Jegatheesan, members of the International Steering Group on Pets & Housing initiated by SCAS, a Harm Assessment approach is proposed to the use of ‘no pet’ covenants in private rental housing. 

The Society for Companion Animal Studies have released a statement in response to learning that some landlords, including social landlords are considering requiring tenants to relinquish XL bully dogs.

On the first day of winter and the longest night of the year, people in our communities will die without a home.

Organised by the National Coalition for the Homeless, the National Consumer Advisory Board, and the National Health Care for the Homeless Council (NCHC), this is a day to “remember those who have died and strengthen our resolve to work for a world where no life is lived or lost in homelessness”.

SCAS recognises the devastating effects of vulnerable people being forced to choose between a roof over their head and their beloved companion animals. #Petsandhousing is an important issue, supported by SCAS and our partners (My Dog is My Home; AdvoCATSeastmids; and others) through supporting evidence-based research, education, policy change (The John Chadwick Pet Policy), and raising awareness.

#removebarriers

Read more about how to support the cause or organise a memorial for someone who died homeless:

Dee Bonett and Maidstone Borough Council have won a much-deserved award for their partnership driving new pet-friendly housing policy following the tragic suicide of John Chadwick. The John Chadwick Pet Policy ensures that those with pets who have become homeless are supported in Emergency Accommodation until suitable permanent accommodation can be found – for both the homeless person and their pet. SCAS is proud to have supported Dee as she worked with Maidstone Borough Council to develop this new policy together.