Aims and Scope

The Journal of One Health Systems (JOHS) welcomes submissions that promote equity at the intersection of human and pet health. Submissions may employ quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods approaches. Authors are encouraged to select study designs that reflect the complexity of their research questions—especially those rooted in community-based, interdisciplinary, or equity-centered frameworks. As applicable, submissions should include a clear description of the methods, a rationale for their use, and documentation of ethical review or approval.

JOHS approaches One Health through a practical, systems-based framework that emphasizes the social and structural drivers of health and the lived experiences of households.

JOHS prioritizes submissions that:

• Expand equitable access to care for all members of the family—human and pet.
• Integrate social services within veterinary and human health systems.
• Address structural, geographic, and economic barriers to care.
• Showcase effective cross-sector partnerships and innovations.
• Evaluate policies, programs, or systems that impact pet-inclusive households.

Its editorial scope is organized around a four-sector model, which connects efforts across:

• Health and Well-Being

  Aligns and strengthens veterinary, human, and social care systems to promote the comprehensive health and well-being of pet families, recognizing the interconnected needs of people and their pets.

• Economic and Community Support

  Mobilizes funders, nonprofits, employers, and financial systems to reduce cost-related barriers and invest in the infrastructure that supports pet family health. This sector fosters inclusive, community-based solutions that improve access to care and long-term stability.

• Housing, Transportation, and Infrastructure

  Addresses logistical and structural barriers that limit access to care and stability for pet families. This sector supports pet-inclusive housing, transportation to care services, and reliable delivery of essential supplies.

• Education, Policy, and Research

  Advances sustainable change through training, applied research, and policy that center pet families within care systems. This sector informs evidence-based models, inclusive community design, and One Health integration across disciplines.

Guided by this interdisciplinary approach, JOHS supports the development of coordinated, inclusive care systems that promote the health, stability, and unity of pet families.