#USA #Mars #Calm #Shailene Woodley #Various US Cities

Shailene Woodley, Mars, and Calm: A Heartfelt Promotion of Pet Adoption

In an inspiring partnership, acclaimed actress and devoted pet mom Shailene Woodley has joined forces with two prominent organizations, Mars and Calm, to emphasize the profound ways in which pet adoption can transform lives for both pets and their owners. This collaboration aims to shine a spotlight on the remarkable bond between humans and animals, especially through the lens of mental well-being.

In a recent global survey commissioned by Mars and Calm, it was revealed that a significant 83% of pet owners reported improvements in their mental health after bringing a pet into their lives. This statistic underlines the undeniable role pets can play in enhancing our overall happiness and emotional stability. With approximately 12 million dogs and 4 million cats in shelters around the world eagerly waiting for loving homes, the urgency for adopting these animals has never been greater.

As we approach the highly-anticipated Mars Global Adoption Weekend, scheduled from October 3rd to 5th, 2025, Woodley, alongside Mars and Calm, is passionately advocating for increased pet adoption. This event will serve as a platform to not only connect potential pet owners with their future companions but also to highlight the emotional benefits both parties gain from such relationships.

Woodley, known for her roles in productions like "Big Little Lies" and "The Fault in Our Stars," shares a personal testimony on how her rescue cats, Bear and Pharrah, have significantly impacted her life: "They bring me peace when I'm overwhelmed with a busy filming schedule, and every day, they remind me to breathe, slow down and live in the moment. I want more people to see that adoption isn't just an act of compassion for an animal; it can also be an act of care for yourself."

Research has shown that spending time with pets promotes the release of hormones such as oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin, which are often referred to as the 'happy hormones'. The psychological effects of pet companionship support mental health by reducing stress and fostering a nurturing environment. Additionally, studies also suggest that within three months of adoption, dogs typically showcase increased confidence while cats develop stronger bonds with their adopters.

Dr. Alea Harrison, Chief Medical Officer at Banfield, offers insight into the dynamics of the human-animal bond, noting that memorable transformations can occur during the crucial early days of a pet's new life. "Strong bonds are built slowly, through patience, consistency, and care - and when they take root, they can bring joy, companionship and fulfillment," she explains.

Mars is proactively supporting prospective pet owners during this Global Adoption Weekend by teaming up with shelters across more than twenty countries. This initiative seeks to bring together many loving pets with people who are itching to embrace pet ownership. The impact of this campaign is far-reaching, as indicated by Tiffany Lacey, Executive Director of Animal Haven in the U.S., who remarks, "Every adoption is proof that compassion changes lives, giving pets a loving home and enriching the wellbeing of the people who welcome them."

Mars is dedicating over $185,000 to cover adoption fees for both cats and dogs across various U.S. cities, in addition to a grant of $25,000 from the PEDIGREE Foundation for dog adoptions. Other initiatives include providing new pet parents in Poland with a six-month supply of food and donating 33,000 meals for pets in Filipino shelters. Moreover, during October, Mars and Calm will support new pet owners by offering a three-month complimentary membership to Calm, assisting them as they navigate the early days of pet ownership.

As part of this campaign, Woodley has created a Sleep Story titled "Finding Four-Legged Friends," available exclusively on the Calm app. This story, inspired by her own experiences, is included in the first-ever pet-focused content collection on the platform, which also features guided meditations and other wellness resources tailored for pet owners.

In conclusion, the alliance of Shailene Woodley, Mars, and Calm is a powerful example of how the act of adopting a pet goes beyond kindness but serves as a gateway to enhancing mental health and creating lasting bonds. This Global Adoption Weekend presents a wonderful opportunity to connect with our furry friends who are awaiting their forever homes, making an impact that will change lives in more ways than one.