Overview
Mars, Incorporated announced the launch of a new online Mars Adoption Hub ahead of its 2026 Global Adoption Weekend. The Hub provides expert‑backed guidance for prospective and current pet parents, drawing on resources from the Waltham Petcare Science Institute and covering pre‑ and post‑adoption support.
Research Findings
The company commissioned the largest pet‑adoption study of its kind, conducted by Censuswide, surveying 26,002 general consumers aged 18+ across 14 countries (UK, USA, France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Mexico, India, Poland, Philippines, Canada, Italy, Japan) between 16 July 2026 and 29 July 2026. The research found that 58% of current pet parents did not adopt their pet, while nearly one in three respondents (28%) expressed a desire to adopt in the future if provided with appropriate guidance and support.
Adoption Barriers
Among those considering adoption, the most common concerns were related to the unknown: undisclosed medical history (33% of respondents), behavioral background (27%), and household compatibility (25%).
Nutrition Insights
The study also highlighted nutrition as a key area, noting that 71% of adopters change their pet’s diet after leaving the shelter. Expert advice emphasizes a gradual diet transition over 7–10 days to support healthy digestion.
Adoption Hub Features
The Mars Adoption Hub offers practical resources, including the 3‑3‑3 rule advocated by veterinarian and pet‑nutrition expert Dr Esther Bijsmans, DVM, PhD: the first three days focus on safety, the first three weeks on establishing routines and trust, and by three months most pets have settled. The Hub also provides nutrition guidance to avoid rapid food switches.
Global Adoption Weekend Expansion
Building on the success of the previous year, the 2026 Mars Global Adoption Weekend will expand to over 30 countries, enabling more local shelters to participate and connect with prospective adopters through the new Hub.
Corporate Context
Mars, Incorporated, a $65 billion family‑owned business based on combined Mars and Kellanova 2025 net sales, employs approximately 170,000 associates worldwide. Its portfolio includes leading snack brands (e.g., M&M’s®, Snickers®, Pringles®) and pet‑care brands (e.g., Royal Canin®, Pedigree®, Whiskas®). The company operates international networks of pet hospitals—Banfield™, BluePearl™, VCA™, Anicura™—and the ANTECH® veterinary diagnostics business. Mars operates under its Five Principles: Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency, and Freedom.
Source Details
The press release was issued in London on 24 September 2026 via PRNewswire. The research methodology adheres to MRS Code of Conduct and ESOMAR principles, with Censuswide being a member of the Market Research Society and the British Polling Council.