#None #Pets #Wellbeing #Mars

Mars Launches Landmark Global Study

Mars, Incorporated, a leader in the pet care industry, has revealed its ambitious plan to conduct a far-reaching international study on the essential role that pets, specifically cats and dogs, play in enhancing human mental health and wellbeing. This landmark initiative, named the Pets and Wellbeing Study (PAWS), is poised to become the world's largest multi-year research project centered on the vital connections between humans and their furry companions.

Initiated on February 20, 2025, the PAWS program aims to enroll over 35,000 participants from more than 20 countries, thus building a robust dataset that bridges the gap in understanding the benefits of the human-animal relationship. This undertaking arises amidst a growing global mental health crisis, with escalating anxiety and stress levels affecting millions. As 45% of individuals across 31 nations prioritize mental health, and with 301 million individuals battling anxiety worldwide, this comprehensive research could pave the way for innovative solutions.

Through collaboration with notable academic institutions such as the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, University of Maryland School of Nursing, and the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, the study aims to scrutinize the interconnections between pet ownership and a spectrum of mental health issues, including stress, anxiety, and loneliness. According to Loïc Moutault, President of Mars Petcare, the motivation behind this extensive research stems from the profound personal experiences of pet owners who recognize the joy and comfort that pets can bring to their lives.

The unique partnership with Calm, a premier mental wellness organization, further enriches the PAWS initiative. By integrating Calm's insights into mental wellness with Mars' extensive research on the human-animal bond, the partnership aspires to unveil new resources and insights across various platforms throughout 2025. Dr. Chris Mosunic, Chief Clinical Officer at Calm, emphasizes that pets serve as vital sources of joy and connection, which directly influence mental health and wellbeing.

As part of their commitment to fostering a better world for pets, Mars aims to derive scientific evidence supporting the hypothesis that pets enhance lives not just for their owners but also for themselves. The research conducted under the PAWS program will seek to deepen understanding of how pets contribute positively to the lives of those around them while highlighting the importance of maintaining these invaluable bonds.

Over the five-year span of the project, Mars anticipates uncovering impactful data and insights that can guide future pet care practices while advocating for animal welfare. With 1 billion pets globally and 56% of households owning a pet, understanding the dynamics of this significant relationship has never been more urgent. By investing in this realm of research, Mars underscores its dedication to address pressing issues such as pet homelessness and emphasizes the vital importance of keeping pets and their owners together.

In culmination, the Pets and Wellbeing Study represents a transformative step in recognizing the essential role pets play in enhancing the quality of human life. With expert collaborations and expansive data collection, Mars is set to provide concrete evidence that supports the unique and powerful bond between humans and their pets, which could lead to better mental health outcomes for individuals around the world.

For further information about the program and its progress, visit Mars Pets and Wellbeing.