H.A.B.I.T. stands for Human-Animal Bond in Tennessee. H.A.B.I.T. is composed of representatives from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, volunteers from the community, and private veterinary practitioners. It is the oldest animal-assisted program in the state and one of the oldest in the country.

We sponsor programs that foster pet visitation to nursing homes, assisted-living residences, retirement centers, mental health centers, residences for children with special needs, rehabilitation facilities, hospital settings, and other facilities.

We also offer resources such as trained volunteers, medically and behaviorally screened animals, and guidance regarding pet visitation, program development, and evaluation.

Established in 1986, our group, composed of community volunteers, works to explore the circumstances and consequences of the human-animal bond and to promote this valuable bond between people and animals.

Community response has been overwhelming; numerous facilities are contacting us regarding our program. Currently, we have over 980 active volunteers involved in 205 different facilities. 106 schools in Knox and fourteen other surrounding counties have a Ruff Reading or Purrfect Reading program. We credit our success to the efforts and commitment of our volunteers. We strongly believe in the efforts of H.A.B.I.T and continuously welcome new volunteers.

The H.A.B.I.T Executive Committee is also composed of volunteers who juggle H.A.B.I.T. responsibilities along with their jobs and family schedules. We want to offer our community the best programs possible and that takes planning, coordination, and TIME. We ask for your patience and welcome your ideas and suggestions for H.A.B.I.T.