Join Us in Expanding Access to Companion Animal Science
The I-PETS Program at the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign is part of one of the most established and comprehensive companion animal science programs in the United States, with more than 50 years of leadership in research, education, and outreach.
Embedded within the University of Illinois Companion Animal Program, which is recognized for its leadership in integrating innovation across nutrition, behavior, and welfare science, I-PETS functions as the Extension, education, and industry translation arm, focused on delivering science-based knowledge directly to global audiences.
The I-PETS Webinar Series is already underway, and we are continuing to grow and expand its reach. We invite industry partners and collaborators to join us in strengthening and shaping its ongoing impact.
The I-PETS Webinar Series
The I-PETS Webinar Series is an ongoing global outreach initiative that translates scientific research into practical, accessible knowledge for industry professionals, veterinarians, researchers, and pet caregivers worldwide.
Each webinar is a 1-hour session consisting of:
- 40 minutes of expert presentation
- 20 minutes of live Q&A and discussion
Sessions feature leading experts from academia, industry, and clinical practice, bridging research innovation with real-world application in both the pet industry and the daily care of pets.
Topics include:
- Companion animal nutrition and ingredient innovation
- Metabolic health, microbiome science, and functional nutrition
- Pet food technology and formulation advances
- Animal welfare science and behavior
- Translational research shaping the future of pet care
Why Industry Partners Choose I-PETS
The University of Illinois Companion Animal Program has a long-standing reputation for producing science that directly influences the pet food and animal health industries. Faculty and alumni have helped shape modern companion animal nutrition and welfare standards globally.
By partnering with the I-PETS Webinar Series, your organization gains direct association with this legacy of leadership and innovation.
Partnership Benefits:
- Alignment with a globally recognized university leader in companion animal science
- Opportunities to connect with veterinarians, researchers, students, industry professionals, and pet caregivers
- Visibility across webinar platforms and promotional materials
- Opportunity to support the translation of science into practical, real-world solutions for the pet industry and everyday pet care
- Contribution to education that shapes the next generation of animal science professionals
Partnership Opportunities
We welcome collaboration with organizations across the companion animal sector, including:
- Pet food, pet treats, and animal nutrition companies
- Veterinary pharmaceutical and animal health companies
- Pet care and animal health technology innovators
- Veterinary professionals, researchers, and animal science experts
- Industry associations and professional organizations
Partnership support may include:
- Support (single session or series)
- Expert speaker participation
- Co-branded educational initiatives
- Support for science communication and outreach
Join Us
We are currently inviting industry partners to participate and support the I-PETS Webinar Series.
This is an opportunity to engage with a long-standing academic tradition at the University of Illinois that has shaped companion animal science for over 50 years while contributing to the advancement of the global pet industry and everyday companion animal care.
Together, we can help translate scientific discovery into practical impact for animals and the people who care for them.
Join the I-PETS Community
Contact
For partnership inquiries or collaboration opportunities, please contact:
Contact Dr. ObaAdvancing companion animal science through education, innovation, and industry collaboration.
Graduate Course Opportunity – ANSC 590: I-PETS Seminar
Graduate students may also participate in the webinar series through ANSC 590 – I-PETS Seminar, a graduate-level course offered during the Fall and Spring semesters.
The course provides a structured forum for discussion of current scientific literature and research in companion animal science, with emphasis on nutrition, health, behavior, management, and science communication. Students develop skills in scientific presentation, critical evaluation of research, and professional discussion through active participation in the webinar series.
Course Information
- Course: ANSC 590 – I-PETS Seminar
- Format: Online
- Schedule: Tuesdays, 3:00–4:00 PM CT
- Credits: Available for 0 or 1 graduate credit hour
- Cross-listed with: NUTR 591
- CRN: 42694 – 0 credit
- CRN: 44009 – 1 credit
Students enrolled for 1 credit complete additional assignments including scientific presentations, peer evaluations, webinar participation, and critical analysis activities. The course may be repeated up to 2 credit hours for M.S. students and 4 credit hours for PhD students.