Society of Companion Animals (SCAS) invited to Speak at Housing Studies Association Annual Conference 2026
SCAS is pleased to announce that Dr Elizabeth Ormerod, Chairman of the Society will be presenting a paper on The far-reaching harms caused by the lack of pet-inclusive housing: a veterinary perspective at this year’s Housing Studies Association Annual Conference (#HSA2026) Recent housing reforms improve tenants’ rights to keep pets, but many groups are still excluded. “No pets” policies cause emotional harm, increase pet surrender, and deny health and social benefits—especially for vulnerable people—highlighting the need for stronger legal protections.
The conference brings together academics, policymakers, practitioners, and community voices to explore the major challenges facing housing systems today. In a period marked by climate transitions, public health concerns, and rapid technological change, the event will examine how housing policy and practice can evolve to ensure resilience, sustainability, and justice for households and communities.
Elizabeth Ormerod will present work highlighting the relationship between housing, wellbeing, and companion animals. Through her pioneering work with SCAS, she has helped advance understanding of the human–animal bond and its relevance to social policy, health, and housing.
SCAS has funded research exploring how housing systems can better support people with pets. Mackenzie Fong (Newcastle University) led a 2024 study on pet-inclusive UK homelessness services. Housing with pets is often difficult, but pet-friendly services improve wellbeing and social connection. Overall, the study concluded that, when properly managed, accommodating pets is safe and beneficial and the team secured further funding to develop policy guidance promoting pet inclusion.
Dr Elizabeth Ormerod will also present a paper, co-authored with Dr Brinda Jegatheesan, on companion animals in Singaporean homes. Public housing in Singapore has strict pet ownership rules, allowing only certain small animals and dog breeds, with limits and fines for violations. Dr Jegatheesan is a member of SCAS and a member of the International Steering Group on Pets in Housing Issues.
Dr Elizabeth Ormerod’s contribution to #HSA2026 will bring an important perspective to discussions about housing and community wellbeing, highlighting how housing policy and practice can better recognise the role of companion animals in people’s lives.
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.