Henderson Receives National Certification as a Better City for Pets
The city of Henderson has been certified as a Better City for Pets by Mars Petcare for creating a vibrant pet-friendly community. Henderson is among an inaugural group of 25 cities across the nation to receive certification through the Better Cities for Pets program. “Pets are part of the family for so many Henderson residents and we have worked to make our community a dynamic and safe place where our two- and four-legged friends can flourish,” said Mayor Debra March. “The Better City for Pets certification recognizes the pet-friendly amenities and policies that the City of Henderson has put in place to nurture happy, healthy pets and promote responsible pet ownership and we’re delighted to receive this honor.”
Among the traits that earned Henderson the first-ever Better City for Pets certification is plentiful access to green spaces, including 65 parks, 17 dog parks where pets can run free and socialize and 180 miles of pet-friendly trails. Another is the Henderson Animal Care and Control Facility’s partnership with local rescue groups to reduce pet homelessness and place more pets into loving homes, for which the shelter earned no-kill status for the first time in 2018.
“On behalf of Mars Petcare, I want to thank and congratulate the 25 cities that have prioritized people and pets in their communities,” said Mark Johnson, President of Mars Petcare North America. “From helping people live healthier lives to creating social connections, pets can truly transform our communities. These certified cities are helping to make a more pet-friendly world and we hope that many more cities will join us in this commitment.”
Mars Petcare launched the Better City for Pets certification in January, building on the Better Cities for Pets program which works with local government, businesses and non-profits to help communities make two- and four-legged friends welcome. Applicants were evaluated on 12 traits of pet-friendly cities across four categories: businesses, parks, shelters and homes, for how well they demonstrated their commitment to creating a pet-friendly community and fostering the well-being of all citizens and pet companions.
Information on Better City for Pets certification can be viewed at bettercitiesforpets.com.