New Leadership at JPLC: Aiming for Better Pet-Human Coexistence
In a significant move for the future of pet-human relationships in Japan, the Japan Pet Life Co-Creation Organization (JPLC) officially appointed Professor Yoko Ma from the Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences at the University of Tokyo as its new president, effective November 2025. Under her leadership, JPLC aims to transform public spaces into pet-friendly environments where humans and pets can coexist harmoniously.
JPLC, which stands for ‘Learning for Life,’ is dedicated to creating a society where pets and humans can safely cohabit. This organization engages in educational research and public advocacy in three main areas: hygiene, training, and welfare of pets. By leveraging scientific evidence, JPLC strives to cultivate a culture of coexistence in public settings. One of their notable initiatives is the 'SOPRA ACADEMY,' which offers practical certification programs that train individuals as dog trainers, pet sitters, home care advisors, and elderly dog caretakers. These qualifications aim to strengthen healthy relationships between people and pets in both domestic and community environments.
With Professor Ma at the helm, JPLC plans to focus on several key initiatives:
Professor Yoko Ma is a distinguished researcher who specializes in Veterinary Virology and Infectious Disease. She holds a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from the Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences at the University of Tokyo. Recognized as a leading figure in the fusion of academic knowledge with practical application, her work delves into understanding and controlling zoonotic infections.
Professor Ma's profound studies have led her to the forefront of molecular virology, specifically the mechanisms of pathogenicity associated with viruses affecting pets and livestock, including BLV, HIV, the influenza virus, and SARS-CoV-2. Her outstanding contributions to the field have earned her the prestigious Japan Agricultural Prize for the fiscal year 2024.
Her vision is clear: 'In order for pets and humans to live in the same society comfortably, society must share an awareness of hygiene, training, and etiquette. JPLC will progress towards creating an environment where everyone can enjoy a harmonious coexistence with their pets, grounded in scientific knowledge and standards.'
Echoing her sentiments, Suda Tetsusaku, the executive director of JPLC and president of Sopra Ginza Co., Ltd, stated, 'The appointment of Professor Ma marks a significant turning point for JPLC. We will develop educational frameworks, conduct research, and create guidelines that will enable us to present a model of coexistence to the world, showcasing the best practices from Japan.'
As part of their long-term vision, JPLC plans to establish the 'Pet Coexistence Promotion Consortium' by 2026, enhancing collaboration among government, academia, business, and civic organizations. This consortium will work towards developing acceptance standards and certification systems for public transport, hospitality, and commercial venues. Additionally, they will utilize a national network of instructors to promote education on living with pets and social manners, fostering a more inclusive society for pets and their owners.
JPLC, which stands for ‘Learning for Life,’ is dedicated to creating a society where pets and humans can safely cohabit. This organization engages in educational research and public advocacy in three main areas: hygiene, training, and welfare of pets. By leveraging scientific evidence, JPLC strives to cultivate a culture of coexistence in public settings. One of their notable initiatives is the 'SOPRA ACADEMY,' which offers practical certification programs that train individuals as dog trainers, pet sitters, home care advisors, and elderly dog caretakers. These qualifications aim to strengthen healthy relationships between people and pets in both domestic and community environments.
With Professor Ma at the helm, JPLC plans to focus on several key initiatives:
- - Development of acceptance criteria and behavioral guidelines for pets in public transportation, accommodation facilities, and commercial venues.
- - Promoting awareness and understanding of training, hygiene, and etiquette concerning pet coexistence.
- - Collaborative scientific research and policymaking with universities, government entities, and businesses based on empirical evidence.
- - Standardization of educational curriculum and workforce development in partnership with SOPRA ACADEMY.
Profile of Professor Yoko Ma
Professor Yoko Ma is a distinguished researcher who specializes in Veterinary Virology and Infectious Disease. She holds a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from the Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences at the University of Tokyo. Recognized as a leading figure in the fusion of academic knowledge with practical application, her work delves into understanding and controlling zoonotic infections.
Professor Ma's profound studies have led her to the forefront of molecular virology, specifically the mechanisms of pathogenicity associated with viruses affecting pets and livestock, including BLV, HIV, the influenza virus, and SARS-CoV-2. Her outstanding contributions to the field have earned her the prestigious Japan Agricultural Prize for the fiscal year 2024.
Her vision is clear: 'In order for pets and humans to live in the same society comfortably, society must share an awareness of hygiene, training, and etiquette. JPLC will progress towards creating an environment where everyone can enjoy a harmonious coexistence with their pets, grounded in scientific knowledge and standards.'
Echoing her sentiments, Suda Tetsusaku, the executive director of JPLC and president of Sopra Ginza Co., Ltd, stated, 'The appointment of Professor Ma marks a significant turning point for JPLC. We will develop educational frameworks, conduct research, and create guidelines that will enable us to present a model of coexistence to the world, showcasing the best practices from Japan.'
Future Perspectives
As part of their long-term vision, JPLC plans to establish the 'Pet Coexistence Promotion Consortium' by 2026, enhancing collaboration among government, academia, business, and civic organizations. This consortium will work towards developing acceptance standards and certification systems for public transport, hospitality, and commercial venues. Additionally, they will utilize a national network of instructors to promote education on living with pets and social manners, fostering a more inclusive society for pets and their owners.
Organization Overview
- - Name: Japan Pet Life Co-Creation Organization (JPLC)
- - Location: 3-4-18 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- - Founded: 2024
- - Representative Director: Tetsusaku Suda
- - Philosophy: Learning for Life
- - Activities: Promoting pet coexistence, developing guidelines, certifying qualifications, conducting research, collaborating with government, businesses, and academia.
- - Official Website: Japan Pet Life Co-Creation
Topics People & Culture）
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