Pet care: investing in relationships in the age of isolation
The number is 4 billion – in 2018, internet connected more than half of the world’s population. We’ve never been more ‘connected’. Despite all this, social isolation and loneliness are on the rise, and that paints a different picture. In a world where technology and social media define our lifestyle, it’s easy to lose touch with what really matters in life. And the youngest generations are particularly vulnerable.
The industry I work in has a recipe to confront this tough reality. What attracts the many thousands of us to pet care is the dream of making a better world for pets - because they make a better world for us. The pets’ contribution to social inclusion and quality of life is real, deep and meaningful. And the recent progress in science shows just how important pet ownership is to keeping us grounded and to connecting to fundamental truths about life.
Pets teach our children about friendship, loyalty, kindness and gratitude. They help kids and teens build self-esteem, face their fears and interact with others. And researchers are now focusing on bringing animal-assisted therapy into the mainstream, making it a real option for children suffering from development disorders such as autism.
We are not investing in pet-focused technology and business innovation on a whim. The real meaning behind our investments lies in a direct link between deepening pet relationships and improving human well-being. And we rely on the coalition of diverse voices to bring to life the better world we see ahead. Together, we strive to offer our companions the best life they can have. And that’s our way of contributing to a better future for our children.
10 years+ of experience in the pet supplies industry across Indonesia, and East Asia. Import, OEM, and distribution to modern and traditional channels. Currently building PETFEST.
5 年Very well written. I always envy how developed country like the US adopts the ideology of treating pets well. Here in Indonesia, our main challenge is to prevent no more cruelty can happen to pets. If we succeed in educating pet owners in this stage, we might see the possibility of deepening the education, from cruelty free to respecting their rights as the citizen of the world. We can’t get rid of the fact that their presence has becoming more and more important to human. How much we love them and how our daily life interaction with them have helped us grow our personality thus it is our duty to help them have a better life and place in the society. Looking forward to read your other articles Leonid!
Certified in Animal Assisted Activities & Therapies in Promoting Human Health
6 年There is an ever-increasing need for connection in our lives, and animals are a key that can provide it.? I'm with an organization that offers HAI using canines, and the demand for services is overwhelming.? Sadly, also overwhelming is the ignorance of national and international guidelines in establishing a pet visitation program.? Even national "pet therapy" organizations are frequently not compliant.? The field is fascinating and ripe for exponential growth in many ways.
Veterinarian / Focused on Diagnostic Imaging / Mental Wellness and Psychological Safety Champion
6 年Promotion of the human-animal bond is key, now more than ever.
Global Vice President, Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer, Mars Petcare
6 年Spot on Leonid!