Pets thrive on predictability. Through the pandemic, pets have developed a stronger bond with their pet parents after more than a year of around-the-clock companionship. But change is inevitable. As many people begin to resume versions of their pre-COVID lives - heading back to the office, hosting get-togethers - many households are now vulnerable to the mental stress their pets may display as things suddenly change. One that could result in the biggest pet mental health crisis. Petco needed to alert pet parents to the signs and the solutions to help.
Under the “It’s What We’d Want If We Were Pets” platform, a nationwide TVC awakened pet parents to the mental health needs of their pets during this time, and the Petco training classes and tools to help them prepare. After all, you’ve been home for over a year with them, and suddenly...you’re just not? What does your pet do? Directed by David Shafei, “What Now?” explores the separation and social anxiety issues that could arise if a proper plan isn’t put in place. Our pets have been there for us through one of the toughest times in recent history. Now, it’s our turn to be there for them.
A return to a pre-pandemic way of life will cause multiple triggers to be met at once for our pets. With 68% of American households being pet parents, and many new pets adopted during the pandemic, the film pointed households to Petco’s free 4-week mental health training guide to help them prepare. Designed in collaboration with Petco’s wellness council, the guide aimed to educate and equip pet parents with the knowledge and tools they need to put their pet’s mental health top-of-mind during this transition.