For the first time in South Africa, Mars, Pick n Pay, Takealot, and Pet Express have joined forces for World Animal Day 2025 in a landmark collaboration to advance pet wellbeing. Mars, the global pet care leader, is extending its “A Better World for Pets™” mission beyond products to focus on education, adoption, and responsible care.
This first-of-its-kind initiative brings together South Africa’s most trusted retailers with Mars’ pet care expertise to promote responsible ownership and demonstrate how industry and community can unite for lasting impact.
The campaign’s highlight will be South Africa’s largest World Animal Day event at the Sea Point Promenade in Cape Town on Sunday, October 5. Over 1,000 attendees and more than 20 welfare groups, including the SPCA and Paws-A-While, will take part with support from the City of Cape Town. Families can meet adoptable pets, enjoy live entertainment, shop at a pet-friendly market, and engage in educational activities.
Mars, Royal Canin, Pick n Pay, Takealot, and Pet Express will donate close to one ton of pet food and fund sterilisation efforts in underserved communities. In the weeks leading up to the event, the partners will use their platforms to raise awareness on adoption, nutrition, and responsible care.
Globally, Mars has supported nearly 10 million vulnerable pets, donated over 100 million meals, and sterilised more than 30,000 animals. In 2024 alone, it contributed over R8.7 million to Humane Society International programs.
As Suraya Hamdulay from Mars notes, “Our mission is to create a Better World for Pets.” This spirit of collaboration, echoed by Pick n Pay, Takealot, and Paws-A-While, shows how compassion and community can build a brighter, kinder world for pets and their families.
