Making Cities Better For Pets
Author
Kimmi Rasky
Date Published
What is Better Cities for Pets?
Launched by Mars Petcare, Better Cities for Pets is a global program designed to support communities in becoming more pet-friendly. The goal is to keep people and pets together, improve wellbeing, and create healthier, more vibrant neighborhoods. (A lot like our mission here at Rescue Revival!) The initiative offers resources, guidance, and financial support to help cities integrate pets into urban life.
What Makes a City Better for Pets?
According to the program’s playbook, pet-friendly cities:
Integrate pets into city planning and public spaces, such as trails, parks, and accessible transit options
Promote housing policies that welcome responsible pet ownership
Encourage community programs through partnerships with shelters and local health providers
Enact supportive policies like waste cleanup regulations, leash laws, and accessibility standards
What’s in the Playbook?
The Better Cities for Pets Playbook provides practical guidance for local governments and planners. It includes:
Infrastructure: Guidance on building dog parks, safe sidewalks, pet exercise areas, and more
Health and welfare policies: Resources on low-cost vet care, licensing, and spay/neuter initiatives
Community engagement: Strategies for public education, community workshops, and shelter partnerships
Evaluation tools: Ways to measure impact on public health, shelter outcomes, and quality of life
Grants That Have Been Given
Better Cities for Pets provides grants to local governments and nonprofits with strong proposals focused on keeping pets and people together. These grants have supported:
Creation and improvement of off-leash dog parks and recreational areas
Pet-inclusive housing assistance and support for low-income pet owners
Mobile veterinary care, community licensing drives, and shelter outreach programs
These investments help cities build long-term, pet-friendly solutions that benefit both animals and people.
How to Get Involved
If you're wondering how you can help move this initiative forward in your city..
Speak upCitizens can make a difference by contacting local officials, advocating for pet-friendly public spaces, and promoting the benefits pets bring to communities. The program encourages individuals to create petitions, join community meetings, and rally support for dog parks, water stations, and inclusive housing policies.
Share and educateUse social media, community groups, or local newsletters to raise awareness about the benefits of pet-friendly infrastructure. Encourage neighbors and friends to back city efforts and support grant applications.
Rescue Revival proudly supports the mission of making our communities more welcoming and supportive for pets. Whether you're a city leader, a volunteer, or a pet lover, there’s a role for everyone in building better cities for pets—and for people.
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