To help clear the path to pet adoption, Mars Petcare has launched an online Mars Adoption Hub offering expert-backed advice, including extensive knowledge from the Waltham Petcare Science Institute.
This follows new research from Mars that reveals that uncertainty about an animal’s background and a lack of expert advice can deter prospective pet adopters, highlighting a critical need for guidance throughout the adoption journey.
The study builds on the Mars State of Pet Homelessness Project by deepening understanding of the barriers people face when considering pet adoption, and how these can be overcome to help more pets find and remain in loving homes.
Surveying more than 26,000 people across 14 countries, the research found that while 58 per cent of current pet parents did not adopt their pet, nearly one in three expressed a desire to adopt in the future, given the right guidance and support.
Among those considering adoption, the most common concerns stem from the unknown, including undiscovered medical history, behavioural background and household compatibility.
The study also highlights an opportunity for greater nutrition expertise and guidance. With 71 per cent of adopters changing their pet’s diet after leaving the shelter, expert support can play an important role in helping pet parents navigate the transition and ensure their pets receive appropriate, complete and balanced nutrition in a safe and informed way.
When the right support is in place, the reward of adopting a pet is clear. Pet parents cite seeing an adopted pet become relaxed and comfortable in their home and feeling like part of the family as the most fulfilling milestones of adoption.
“Bringing a pet home should be an exciting milestone, not an overwhelming one,” said Anthony Guerrieri, vice president, Corporate Affairs, Pet Nutrition, Mars.
“What this research clearly shows is that people have the heart to adopt, but they often second-guess whether they have the know-how.”
