#USA #Brussels #Human-Animal Bond #Mars Petcare #Pets and Wellbeing

Mars Unveils PAWS Program for Mental Health Research

Mars, Incorporated, a leading name in pet care, has made an exciting announcement: they are embarking on the world's largest international study program called the Pets and Wellbeing Study (PAWS). This groundbreaking research initiative focuses on understanding the vital impact that cats and dogs have on human mental health and wellbeing. With a scope that promises to gather data from over 35,000 participants across more than 20 countries, PAWS is set to provide insight into the power of the human-animal bond.

In light of the growing global awareness surrounding mental health issues, this multi-year research program aims to better comprehend how animal companionship can support mental wellbeing, particularly in combating stress, anxiety, and loneliness. As Loïc Moutault, President of Mars Petcare, notes, the initiative aspires to validate the increasing evidence that pets bring joy and solace to our lives. The partnership with leading academic institutions, including the esteemed Waltham Petcare Science Institute, serves to enhance the credibility and scope of the research conducted.

The PAWS program is significant not only for its scale but also for its collaborative approach. It encompasses partnerships with renowned schools such as Tufts University's Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, the University of Maryland School of Nursing, and the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, among others. This wide-ranging collaboration aims to deliver innovative research insights that underline the mutual benefits of pet ownership. The first phase of the study promises to delve deep into various psychological aspects and how they intertwine with pet ownership.

As the study unfolds, it will provide comprehensive data to illuminate how the companionship of pets can enrich our lives, particularly amidst rising anxiety and stress levels that affect millions worldwide. The current statistics underscore that 45% of people in 31 countries cite mental health as their primary health concern, with mental health conditions impacting over 301 million individuals globally.

Realizing the potential of the human-animal connection, Mars has also formed a new partnership with Calm, a prominent mental health company, to jointly promote research initiatives and resources aimed at enhancing mental wellness. This exciting collaboration will leverage Calm's expertise in mental health to better understand how pets can foster emotional support in various daily scenarios. Dr. Chris Mosunic, Chief Clinical Officer at Calm, emphasizes the profound role pets play in providing daily joy and connection, highlighting the goals of the partnership.

Mars has actively advocated for the essential role of pets in enhancing human lives, which aligns with its broader mission to create a better world for pets and their owners. As part of this commitment, the corporation aims to address issues like pet homelessness and support efforts to keep pets and people together. Over the next five years, Mars is determined to aid vulnerable pets worldwide, aiming to strengthen the understanding of how pets significantly affect human well-being.

Historically, the Waltham Petcare Science Institute has been instrumental in advancing pet health and nutrition for over six decades. Its collaboration within the PAWS program emphasizes the institute's commitment to pioneering research that fosters innovation in the field of human-animal interactions. The insights gained from this study will not only enhance scientific understanding but potentially transform how society views the therapeutic attributes of pet companionship.

With upwards of 56% of people owning pets globally and a pet population exceeding one billion, the importance of comprehending the ties between humans and animals is paramount. The PAWS initiative presents an invaluable opportunity to explore and quantify these relationships through scientifically-backed research.

For pet parents and animal aficionados alike, the PAWS program isn’t just a research study; it’s a testament to the love, joy, and security pets bring into our lives. Mars is dedicated to enriching the human-animal bond, paving the way for a brighter future where pets continue to enhance our mental health and overall well-being.