In the Asia-Pacific region, more than half of people (59%) have a pet in their home, with the Philippines having the highest dog ownership ratio — 67% or two-thirds of all households owning one or more dogs. On the flip side, 42% of Filipinos own cats, making it clear that the Philippines is one of the most animal-loving nations.

But beyond being adorable companions, pets are more than just animals; they are family, and with that comes the responsibility of proper care.

Global leader in pet health nutrition, Royal Canin, just launched a children’s storybook designed to nurture empathy, understanding, and responsible pet ownership among families and young readers in the Philippines.

“Welcome Home, Rocky & Charlie!” is more than just a story, but a delightful way to instill values and good habits among children who are looking to adopt pet companions. Through this story, we learn everyday lessons that allow families to understand what it truly means to welcome pets into their home and how it goes beyond just playtime and cuddles.

“Responsible pet ownership is about more than just meeting basic needs,” shared Ann Madelene Garcia, Pet Specialty Retail Head at Royal Canin Philippines. “It’s about recognizing the unique personalities of our pets, providing the right nutrition, and creating an environment where they feel safe and loved. By teaching these values early, we empower families, especially young children, to make informed decisions and build lasting bonds with their pets.”

During the launch, we also got to listen to Kitsie Torres, DVM, Scientific Communications Manager and Vet at Royal Canin, who taught us about the things our pets need to live long, happy, and healthy lives. Here’s what we’ve learned:

Top 5 Needs of Happy Pets

Food & Water

As with any living being, nutrition is the top fundamental need for our pets. Kitsie mentioned how pets need to have access to fresh water throughout the day and are to be fed thrice (puppies and kittens) or twice (adults) a day, depending on their health needs and activity level.

Royal Canin’s “Start of Life” range offers tailored nutritional solutions for puppies and kittens, with products focusing on particular needs at each stage of growth. If you’re adopting a dog or a cat for the first time, you’ll most likely come across this brand on your first visit to the clinic or pet shops, as it’s been trusted by the pet industry as a reliable and nutritious pet food brand.

Pet bowls and feeders are also some of the first things you need to get upon adopting a pet. Ceramic and stainless steel bowls are popular among pet owners. Local brand Ollie has double-walled stainless steel bowls that keep water cooler for 20% longer than the average dog bowl. These bowls are also available in a range of colors and can be customized with your pet’s name! You can find them at their official online store on at their flagship store in BGC.

Food doesn’t just mean everyday meals. It’s also about keeping your pet’s appetite healthy and their relationship with food positive. A little reward goes a long way, especially during training, and what better way to encourage good behavior than with treats? Just be mindful of when you give them, as offering treats before meals could spoil their appetite.

Special milestones, like birthdays, can also be celebrated with pet-friendly cakes made just for your fur babies. And since it can get quite warm in the city, hydration is key. Make sure your pets always have access to fresh water, and for an extra treat, you can whip up refreshing fruit shakes to help them cool down during the summer months.

Shelter & Comfort

Taking home a pet either from a trusted breeder or through adoption at animal shelters takes a lot of responsibility as you’re giving these animals a forever home.

One of the first things you need to prepare before taking your pet home is their comfort zones, such as crates for dogs and towers and caves for cats. Although most would allow their pets to run around their homes freely, it’s still important that your pets have a space for themselves — a haven that caters to their instincts.

For pets with special needs, such as those requiring orthopedic support, specialized products can make a huge difference in their comfort and well-being. Orthopedic beds and supportive harnesses like those from local brand, Dogly Orthopedics, are designed to ease pressure points and reduce discomfort, ensuring your furry pals stay happy and cared for.

Vet Care

One of the most important things you need to do as a pet owner is to register your pet with a vet clinic near you. Puppies and kittens need a lot of care in their early years, so expect to frequent the vet for their vaccinations and check-ups.

Pet owners are usually given a record book, which logs their pet’s shots and medications so it’s important to keep this on hand whenever you visit.

Check-ups and pet medications can be just as expensive as our own hospital bills, so we encourage fur parents to look into pet insurance like Life by Petto to have a financial safety net for unexpected veterinary costs.

Play & Exercise

Beyond the essentials for survival, pets also need play and exercise to stay healthy. Without enough activity, they risk obesity, which can negatively affect their overall well-being, making them more prone to suffer from diseases like metabolic disorders, joint problems, diabetes, and even cardiac and respiratory problems. Regular exercise not only keeps them fit but also stimulates their minds, prevents boredom, and reduces stress. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to strengthen your bond with your furry companions.

Take your dogs for a walk around the neighborhood or play a game of fetch in the park. For cat owners, stimulate your feline’s hunter instincts by using cat toys like stuffed mice or stick toys with feathers. Additionally, you can also explore pet-friendly destinations in the city. There are plenty of fun ways to keep your pets active and happy!

Love & Attention

Beyond providing food, shelter, and basic care, pets thrive when showered with love and affection. Emotional health matters just as much as physical health. When pets feel loved and bonded with their owners, it can translate into better immunity, reduced stress, and even longer lives.

Central to this bond is oxytocin, the so-called “love hormone,” which has been shown in dogs to increase social bonding and support well-being. So yes, give your pets their basic survival needs, and make time for cuddles, walks, and playtime, because the emotional connection you build doesn’t just feel good, it helps them live healthier, happier lives.

There are plenty of ways to show love for your pets that go beyond providing essentials. There’s giving them baths, shopping for cute accessories, or even getting matching clothes.