Pet adoption often comes with challenges that make would-be adopters hesitate. A global survey by Mars identifies reasons most likely to hold people back from adopting a pet.
Survey:
- more than 26,000 people across 14 countries surveyed
- 58 percent of current pet parents did not adopt their pet
- 28 percent* might adopt in the future, given the right guidance and support
Barriers: Among *respondents considering adoption, gaps in the animal’s history were the most common concerns:
- undiscovered medical history (33 percent),
- behavioral background (27 percent)
- whether the pet would fit their household (25 percent)
- diet changes and transition time were also noted
Source: DVM360, PR Newswire, September 24, 2026. Link. When welcoming home a new pet, Mars encourages pet parents to follow the 3-3-3 rule:
- the first 3 days are about helping a new pet feel safe
- the first 3 weeks are to establishing routines, learn the household dynamic and build trust and transitioning nutrition
- by 3 months, most pets will have begun to settle in. Patience and bond-building play a central role.
Note: To help clear the path to pet adoption, the company launched the online Mars Adoption Hub that offers expert-backed advice, including from the Waltham Petcare Science Institute, and practical resources for pre- and post-adoption support <Link>.
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