Mars Petcare UK, through The Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition, has long since been recognised as one of the leaders in the field of Human Companion Animal Bond research. Scientific evidence is increasingly showing that pets are good for people. UK and international research demonstrates that interaction with pets can:

• Reduce the number of visits made to the GP
• Improve chances of survival after life-threatening illness
• Reduce blood pressure and perceived levels of stress
• Provide companionship and enhance social interactions
• Provide purpose and fulfilment and enrich the quality of life for elderly, lonely and depressed people
• Perform a vital role in the family unit regarding child development
• Promote positive responses from those who are withdrawn, aggressive or mentally ill
• Prevent re-offending in juvenile prisoners
• Positively affect school attendance rates

As you may be aware, one of today’s major health concerns is obesity, particularly in children. The DOH Change 4 Life campaign tells us,

“If we carry on as we are, 90 percent of today’s children could be overweight or obese by 2050. We all need to address the rise in obesity for the sake of the future health of our children.”