Advancing Policies for a Pet-Inclusive World
April 4, 2025
At the European Parliament last week, Zoetis—together with the Federation of European Companion Animal Veterinary Associations (FECAVA) and the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE)—hosted the second Companion Animal Stakeholder Summit. The event marked a key milestone with the launch of “The Human-Animal Bond Handbook: Best Practices to Advance Global Initiatives and Policies that Benefit Human and Animal Health”—a comprehensive guide designed to help policymakers foster pet-inclusive societies.
The summit opened with remarks from Member of European Parliament, Barry Cowen, who underscored the importance of cross-sector collaboration in advancing pet-friendly policies.
From Science to Policy: The Role of the Human-Animal Bond
In his keynote address, Jamie Brannan, Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer at Zoetis, emphasized how science-driven policy can enhance the lives of pets and their owners:
“Evidence of the benefits of the human-animal bond is not just anecdotal anymore—it’s scientific. If we want to develop policy, science is important. It gives us the foundation to build a stronger world, one where sustainable animal care, responsible pet ownership, and inclusive policies reinforce each other.”
Building on these insights, Jeannette Ferran Astorga, Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Chief Sustainability Officer at Zoetis, introduced the newly published Human-Animal Bond Handbook. This practical guide provides policymakers and stakeholders with real-world strategies to promote pet-friendly initiatives and support veterinary care globally.
Key Themes of the Handbook
The Human-Animal Bond Handbook highlights critical areas where policy can strengthen the role of companion animals in society, including:
- Removing Barriers to Pet Ownership – Addressing challenges related to housing, travel, and public spaces to ensure pets are fully integrated into daily life.
- Supporting Veterinary Services – Strengthening resources for veterinarians, improving access to pet healthcare, and fostering innovation in veterinary medicine.
- Promoting One Health Initiatives – Recognizing the interconnected health of people, animals, and the environment, while integrating pets into disaster preparedness and public health strategies.
Policy & Industry Perspectives
The event also featured a dynamic panel discussion, “Harnessing the Human-Animal Bond: Key Actions for Policy and the Pet Sector Today”, moderated by Julia Gablenz, Regional President Europe & Middle East, Zoetis. The panel brought together experts from veterinary medicine, public affairs, and pet care, including:
- Ann Criel, Vice President, FECAVA
- Roland Moore, Director, Europe Public Affairs, Mars Petcare
- Paolo Dalla Villa, Technical Officer, Dog Population Management and Disaster Management, WOAH
During the discussion, panelists shared insights on how governments, veterinarians, and the pet care industry can work together to remove barriers to pet ownership and ensure better access to veterinary services. The session concluded with a Q&A, allowing attendees to engage directly with experts on advancing pet-friendly policies.
Strengthening the Human-Animal Bond for the Future
The summit reinforced the growing recognition of the human-animal bond as a key factor in human and animal health. While progress has been made globally in pet-friendly policies, comprehensive EU-wide initiatives remain an opportunity for further advancement.
"FECAVA realizes the importance of conversation starters like the human-animal bond,” Danny Holmes, President, FECAVA. “These discussions will shape future research, guidelines, and regulations. We are proud to collaborate with a diverse group of stakeholders to advance this important work."
With the launch of the Human-Animal Bond Handbook, Zoetis, FECAVA, and FVE reaffirm their commitment to shaping policies that enhance the lives of pets and their owners. Through collaboration with policymakers, veterinary professionals, and industry leaders, they aim to ensure the human-animal bond is recognized as a vital force for societal well-being.
Access the Human-Animal Bond Handbook here.