Michelson Found Animals Foundation hosts an annual forum to engage opinion leaders and stakeholders in policy discussions to create meaningful educational opportunities regarding pets in our communities.
View and download additional information
on our forums and related topics on
our Resource Page.
Big City, Little Paws:
Pets in Urban Communities
For the first time in history, more US households have a pet than a child, impacting our attitudes and our neighborhoods. At the Big City, Little Paws: Pets in Urban Communities forum, leaders convened to learn how cities and private partners can work together to create pet-friendly communities.
The discussion focused on pets in urban environments and how municipal and private programs can help keep pets out of shelters and with their forever families.
The Human Health
Benefits of Pets
Led by academic researchers and program operators, this forum explored the psychological and physical benefits of pet ownership.
This thought provoking session featured programs that illustrate the positive impact of pets on the homeless, seniors, veterans, medical patients and everyday pet owners. The results have implications for how we can support vulnerable populations and stretch tight budgets.
The Impact of Poverty
on Pets and Families
We all know that pets play a meaningful and supportive role in people's physical and emotional health. But what happens when access to that joy is inhibited by income?
This forum, The Impact of Poverty on Pets and Families, explored these topics and more.