PPHE is an interdisciplinary organization housed at the University of Tennessee, dedicated to promoting the health and happiness of people and their pets through research, education, communication, and collaboration.
Our Mission
To advance pet family well-being by transforming fragmented systems into integrated, community driven One Health Systems.
Our Vision
A future where communities unite to ensure every pet family—regardless of their circumstances—can access the services and care they need to thrive.
We engage students, professionals, and community partners through education and training opportunities, and we foster cross-sector collaboration and learning through initiatives such as the One Health Forum, the Journal of One Health Systems, and the One Health Systems Summit.
One Health Community
A public forum in collaboration with the University of Tennessee Program for Pet Health Equity and Maddie’s Fund®, aimed at enhancing collaborative efforts across the full spectrum of care for individuals, their pets, and their environment.
Our joint mission is to champion and streamline national cooperative initiatives, shape public policy, and dismantle obstacles to healthcare for pet-inclusive families.
Journal of One Health Systems
A peer-reviewed, open access journal committed to advancing health equity for families that include pets.
Recognizing companion animals as essential members of the family, JOHS synthesizes perspectives so that care systems—including veterinary, human health, public health, and social services—can be aligned with economic, infrastructure, and policy supports to advance the health and well-being of pet families.
One Health Systems Summit
The One Health Society Summit convenes leaders to advance health equity for people and pets through collaboration, policy, and research.
By fostering a multidisciplinary approach, the Summit aims to foster more sustainable and impactful solutions.
Our Research
Our social research explores topics such as access to veterinary and behavioral care, the impacts of the human–animal bond on individuals and communities, and ways to align social service and animal welfare systems to better support pet families.
Four-Sector Framework for Comprehensive Care
The One Health Systems Summit seeks to advance collaboration across four sectors of care to address the social determinants of health impacting the well- being of people and pets.
Education, Policy, and Research
Advancing evidence-based policies, educational initiatives, and research that supports the development of inclusive systems of care.
- Veterinary & Medical Schools
- Think Tanks & Policy Research Institutes
- Community Outreach Programs
- Real Estate Developers & Property Managers
Health & Well-being
Integrating veterinary care with human health services, mental health support, and wellness programs that recognize the bond between people and pets.
- Veterinarians, Clinics, and Veterinary Social Workers
- Animal Shelters & Rescue Organizations
- Medical & Mental Health Providers
- Public Health Departments
Economic & Community Support
Developing financial assistance programs, community resources, and economic stability initiatives that are accessible and inclusive for people and pets.
- Banks & Financial Institutions
- Foundations & Grant-makers
- Medical & Mental Health Providers
- Public Health Departments
- Employers & Workplace Wellness Programs
- Community Health Organizations & NGOs
- Faith-Based and Civic Groups
- Food Banks & Supply Networks
Housing and Transportation
Advocating for pet-inclusive housing policies and transportation solutions that eliminate barriers preventing families from keeping and caring for their pets.
- Pet-Friendly Housing Advocates
- Public Transit and Pet Transport Services
- Delivery Services
- Public Health Departments
- Animal Control and Public Safety Officers
