Bringing social science to animal protection

We synthesize socio-ecological information and bring diverse perspectives together to help policymakers and government agencies improve the lives of animals and people.

Our work supports companion animals, farmed animals, and wildlife.

Research highlights

New Peer-Reviewed Study Finds Animal Welfare and Quality Debriefings Are Key to Job Fulfillment and Reduced Burnout Among Laboratory Animal Professionals

By Rebecca Niemiec | January 27, 2026

A new study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association by researchers at the Animal Human Policy Center examines the occupational experiences and well-being of laboratory animal professionals (LAPs) across the United States. The research finds that perceptions of high animal welfare standards and satisfaction with post-incident debriefing practices are strongly linked to higher job fulfillment, lower…

Read More →

New Peer-Reviewed Study Finds Widespread Public Support—and Pluralistic Ignorance—Regarding Animal Protection in the United States

By Rebecca Niemiec January 26, 2026

A new study published in Human–Animal Interactions and led by researchers from Colorado State University’s…

Read More →

AHPC Study Identifies What Works—and What’s Needed—to Address Animal Cruelty Nationwide

By Rebecca Niemiec January 6, 2026

A new study from researchers at Colorado State University’s Animal-Human Policy Center examines what helps—and…

Read More →

Peer Reviewed AHPC Study Finds Strong Public Support for Banning Fur Sales in Northeast States

By Rebecca Niemiec December 11, 2025

A study published in Animals, conducted by AHPC co-directors Dr Rebecca Niemiec, Dr Lori Kogan and colleagues,…

Read More →

Introducing the AHPC Podcast

Our podcast series explores critical topics in animal welfare and animal human relations.

Podcast Logos
Content

Research topics

Browse research topics related to specific areas

Farmed Animal Welfare

Farmed Animal Welfare

Keeping People And Pets Together

Keeping People and Pets Together

Animal Cruelty And Neglect

Animal Cruelty and Neglect

Humane Wildlife Management

Humane Wildlife Management

National Public Survey

National Public Survey

Companion Animal Welfare

Companion Animal Welfare

Services and Approach

Fi 2218782

Policy Briefs

We bring together experts to synthesize data and analyze policies relevant to animal-human issues.

 

Fi 3995891

Coordination

We help improve the decision-making processes among diverse stakeholders, scientists, agencies, and policy-makers.

 

Fi 3805767

Original Research

We conduct short and long-term studies on public/stakeholder perspectives, policy impacts, and other social factors.

 

Upcoming Events

August 19th 10:30am – 12pm: The Risks of Octopus Farming, a Special Lecture at the Governor’s Residence

By Rebecca Niemiec | August 14, 2025

The Animal Human Policy Center hosted unique event at the Governor’s Residence at Boettcher Mansion, where leading explored the growing risks of commercial octopus farming and the urgent need for action. Watch a recording of Dr Jacquet’s talk here: https://youtu.be/mR9aob2Dbl4 📅 Date & Time:Tuesday, August 19th, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM 📍 Location:Governor’s Residence at…

Learn More →

Support our work

Your donation saves animals and empowers advocates

Daiga Ellaby J 460ZyUfi8 Unsplash (1)
Alvan Nee T 0EW SEbsE Unsplash (1)
Ashok Acharya Z7hqNJ1n2mw Unsplash
Brianna R HOGzDomlbIY Unsplash (1)
Apostolos Vamvouras FjvIsYAqoic Unsplash
Keith Tanner CN9x4CR5TAg Unsplash