Mars launches study programme on pets’ contribution to human wellbeing

Mars Incorporated has announced the launch of the Pets and Wellbeing Study (PAWS) programme exploring the impact of cats and dogs on mental health and wellbeing. Led by the Waltham Petcare Science Institute in collaboration with leading academic institutions and experts, PAWS will examine the connection between pets and human mental health and wellbeing - including stress, anxiety, loneliness and overall wellbeing. The multi-disciplinary research program will engage over 35,000 people across 20+ countries in the initial phase and will continue to build over time. The study will include work with academic institutions and partners including Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, University of Maryland School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liverpool, University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine, YouGov and the Human Animal Bond Research Institute. As part of the program, Mars is also partnering with mental health company Calm, combining Calm’s expertise in mental wellness with Mars’ leading research into the human-animal bond and will encompass research and content through 2025. Loïc Moutault, president of Mars Petcare, said: “As a pet owner, I know firsthand the joy and comfort pets bring to our lives and there is increasing evidence that owning a pet or simply interacting with one can bring benefits to people of all ages and from all walks of life. “We're aiming to deliver on our Purpose: A Better World for Pets, because we believe pets make our lives better, and through this study program we aim to provide deeper, science-backed understanding of the mutual bond between people and pets.” Dr Maggie O’Haire, associate dean for research at the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine said: “Both the breadth and depth of this study program promise to deliver novel data and greater insight into something many people instinctively feel that the bond between pet and pet owner is a powerful and unique part of the human experience. We are proud to continue to collaborate with Mars and its world-leading research institute as it embarks on this transformative work.”

Mars launches study programme on pets’ contribution to human wellbeing

As part of the program, Mars is also partnering with Calm combining Calm’s expertise in mental wellness with Mars’ leading research into the human-animal bond and will encompass research and content through 2025

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