Tempe has earned City Certification through the BETTER CITIES FOR PETS program from Mars Petcare, showcasing its commitment to creating a pet-friendly community.

Tempe received this certification based on: 

• Significant pet-friendly green spaces
• Supportive city ordinances, such as those that allow businesses to welcome pets
• Community Cat Program education efforts and Trap, Neuter, Return events
• Community-wide efforts to reduce pet homelessness
• Work by local non-profit organizations to provide food for pups and cats in need
• Community support to help keep pets with their humans despite short-term tough times

 “We recognize and celebrate the furry and fabulous residents of Tempe and are proud to support them – they make life so much better for so many of us,” said Tempe Mayor Corey Woods.” 

The city of Tempe recently established an Animal Welfare Office to improve the lives of residents and animals alike. Residents with questions about Community Cat Program or other animal-related issues may email animalwelfare@tempe.gov or call 480-858-PETS (7387).

Tucson was the only other Arizona city to earn this designation. The full list of honored cities is available at BetterCitiesForPets.com/cities. 

“We established the BETTER CITIES FOR PETS certification to celebrate cities that are creating positive and welcoming environments for people and their pets, and encourage more cities to recognize the benefits of our four-legged friends,” said Jam Stewart, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Mars Petcare. “We look forward to continuing to support cities as we work toward our purpose: A Better World For Pets.”