Celebrating Human–Animal Bond Day: SCAS Applauds New Housing Rights for Pet Owners
Human Animal Bond (IHAB) Day is 8th November 2025. This dedicated day recognises, highlights and celebrates our animal companions and the wonderful relationships we can build with them. Originally, founded through a joint effort in 2021 between the Society of Companion Animal Studies in the United Kingdom and the Human Animal Bond Association in the United States it’s a special moment to advocate for greater recognition of the bond, for more opportunities for people and animals to benefit from a bond relationship, and for greater implementation of animal care and welfare education and for training of the professions about their role in human-animal interactions.
We should also reflect about those for whom such a relationship is not possible, for example those living in housing that is not pet friendly, animals in shelters awaiting their forever homes, and those living in care facilities that have not yet embraced Animal Assisted Services. SCAS has actively advocated for pet inclusive housing for many years.
SCAS welcomes the passage of the Renters’ Rights Bill in the UK as a significant milestone in tenant protection and wellbeing. As the UK’s leading voice on the human–animal bond for over four decades, SCAS is encouraged by the Bill’s recognition of tenants’ rights to keep companion animals.
“Pets are not luxuries—they are lifelines,” said Dr Elizabeth Ormerod, Chair of SCAS. “For many, especially those facing isolation or health challenges, the presence of a companion animal is vital to emotional and physical wellbeing. It is also inequitable that many thousands of children are growing up without the companionship of an animal—and the proven benefits that such relationships bring.”
While the Bill marks progress, SCAS emphasises that critical gaps remain. The legislation does not yet guarantee protections for individuals living in:
Social housing, where pet policies vary widely
Properties where the freeholder (superior landlord) may impose blanket no-pet clauses
Alms houses and other charitable housing, often governed by restrictive legacy rules
These groups are disproportionately affected by pet exclusions, despite being among those who benefit most from animal companionship.
The Housing Bill Scotland was also passed a few weeks ago. This has similar provision - tenants can request to have a pet, and landlords cannot unreasonably refuse. However, in Scotland this applies to both private and rental tenants whereas in England it only applies to private tenants. SCAS calls for continued dialogue with policymakers, housing providers, and care professionals to ensure that pet ownership is supported across all housing sectors. The charity remains committed to producing evidence-based guidance, policy recommendations, and outreach resources to advance fair and inclusive housing practices.
“The Renters’ Rights Bill is a welcome step,” Elizabeth added, “but true equity means ensuring that no one is left behind—regardless of where or how they live.”
To learn more about SCAS’ work in pet-inclusive housing, visit https://www.scas.org.uk/pets-and-housing. For media inquiries or to arrange an interview with Dr. Elizabeth Ormerod, please contact info@scas.org.uk
Be sure to join us in elevating the human animal bond by sharing your stories on social media with the hashtags #IHABDay #SCAS #HABA #HumanAnimalBond.
About SCAS
The Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS) was established in 1979 to promote the study of human–companion animal interactions and to raise awareness of the vital roles pets play in society. SCAS is the UK’s leading Human–Animal Interaction organisation, funding original research, providing education, encouraging best practice, and shaping policy to support the human–companion animal bond. If you’d like to know more about SCAS and its work to promote the bond between people and pets, visit our website www.scas.org.uk.
About HABA
The Human Animal Bond Association (HABA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the understanding and appreciation of the dynamic relationship between people and animals. Through education, advocacy, and collaboration, HABA promotes the positive impact of the human-animal bond on individual and community well-being. The association brings together professionals from veterinary medicine, animal welfare, human health, and related fields to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and support initiatives that strengthen this vital connection. HABA envisions a world where the human-animal bond is universally recognized, respected, and nurtured.