Mars, the renowned pet food and snack company, is marking a significant milestone in its 90-year history by hosting a heartwarming “paw-ty” for senior dogs this August. The event is a celebration of the universal birthday for shelter dogs, and a reflection of Mars’ enduring commitment to pet care.
The Humble Beginnings of Mars in Pet Care
- 1935: Mars acquired UK-based Chappell Brothers, the maker of Chappie canned dog food, marking the beginning of Mars’ foray into pet care.
- The company expanded its pet offerings in the 1950s and 1960s with pet food brands such as Pedigree, Whiskas, and Sheba, while establishing the pioneering Waltham Petcare Science Institute.
Mars has a long history of delivering science-backed nutrition, veterinary care, and innovation through its iconic brands. The company’s love for pets runs deep, and its 90-year history is a testament to its enduring commitment to the well-being of animals.
Senior Pets Deserve Love and Care Too
Many older pets arrive at shelters each year, often overlooked in favor of puppies and kittens. However, new research commissioned by Mars reveals that senior dogs are often associated with positive traits, such as loyalty, a loving nature, and gentleness.
- UK adults are most likely to associate senior dogs with loyalty (50%), and a loving nature (41%).
- Four fifths (80%) of UK adults who have lost a pet believe that the emotional bond with their pet grew stronger over time, while another 64% believe that their pet understood them better as they aged.
Meanwhile, a third (33%) of UK adults believe that senior dogs are gentle, and a third (32%) believe that they are trustworthy.
Celebrating Mars 90th Anniversary with Battersea
Mars is celebrating its 90th anniversary by hosting a “paw-ty” for senior dogs at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. The event is a joyous reminder that great things come with age, and a testament to the company’s commitment to celebrating the lives of all pets, regardless of age.
| Quotes from Mars and Battersea |
Jay McGuinness, Rehoming and Welfare Manager at Battersea, said: “Senior dogs, despite their age, still have a lot of love and affection to give, and Battersea works to find them suitable homes for their twilight years. Our partnership with Mars has been instrumental in providing the animals in our care with the nutrition and care they need, and through shared initiatives that help more pets find the loving homes they deserve.” |
Mars’ Commitment to Ending Pet Homelessness
Mars Petcare is continuing its work with Battersea and shelters across the world to raise awareness and end pet homelessness, for dogs and cats of all ages.
- The Mars Global Pet Parent Study found that only 16% of dogs and cats acquired globally are over the age of one.
- The State of Pet Homelessness Project revealed that nearly one in three dogs and cats are homeless.
More recently, Mars and Battersea have been jointly campaigning to have pet provisions included in the Renters Rights Bill, to improve access to pet-friendly housing across the private-rented sector.
Expert Advice on Caring for Senior Pets
Dr. Tammie King, animal behavior scientist at Waltham Petcare Science Institute, shares her top five tips for helping senior pets thrive:
- Adapt diets throughout life stages: Growing puppies, fully grown adults, and senior dogs all have differing nutritional needs to stay as healthy as possible.
- Old dogs can (and should) learn new tricks: Regular training and games can help keep their minds sharp.
- Let’s get physical! Exercise is crucial for senior dogs’ physical and mental wellbeing. Regular low-intensity walks can be a great way to help manage weight, maintain muscle mass, and reduce the risk of behavioural problems associated with boredom.
- Don’t overlook dental care: Older dogs are more prone to dental issues, which can affect how much and how they eat and how they feel.
- Enjoy the little moments!
news is a contributor at AnimalGrow. We are committed to providing well-researched, accurate, and valuable content to our readers.
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