Dechra Launches “The Dechra Connection Report” to Explore the Role of Pets in Community Wellbeing

22 June 2026

Dechra recently commissioned The Dechra Connection Report, an inaugural public opinion survey, to guide community efforts and identify local perspectives on pet health, wellbeing, and the role animals play in communities.

Strong Consensus on the Benefits of Human–Animal Interaction

Based on a sample size of 200 Boston residents, the survey revealed the following primary findings:

• 98% of respondents agreed that interactions with animals can have a positive impact on human health, with 93% also believing they could create stronger, more connected communities
• 88% believe that community-based pet health programs are important
• 79% believe that it is important for the Greater Boston community to invest in programs that bring people and pets together
• 68% said they would be likely to participate in a community-based program that supports pet health
• Over 80% of respondents believe that therapy animal programs can have great impact in settings like hospitals, senior living facilities and other healthcare environments.

"The survey findings reinforced something we already believed—that people increasingly see pet wellbeing, human wellbeing, and community wellbeing as interconnected," said Laura Olsen, President, North America, Dechra.

"The message was remarkably consistent: people want more opportunities to experience the benefits of the human-animal bond in their communities. As we establish our new home in Boston, we look forward to supporting partnerships and programs that help make those connections possible."