Kitchener, Ont., is the first Canadian city to receive official certification from Mars Petcare’s Better Cities for Pets initiative.  The result of a collaboration between the city, the Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo, and Dog Friendly K-W, the certification recognizes Kitchener’s inclusivity and accessibility for pet ownership.

The city’s application evaluated various aspects of pet ownership accessibility, including dog-friendly housing, shelters, support resources, workplaces, and businesses that welcome pets. The process for certification required the city specify a “top priority” in relation to pet ownership, which, in Kitchener’s case, is to implement a responsible pet ownership campaign in collaboration with the local humane society. The campaign will educate the community on important pet-ownership specifications, such as licensing dogs, spaying and neutering, proper care, enrichment, and adherence to local pet-related bylaws.

The official certification opens Kitchener’s doors to the burgeoning niche of pet tourism.