FRANKLIN, Tennessee (PRNewswire) — Mars Petcare is taking its commitment to creating a more pet-friendly world to new heights by announcing the “BETTER CITY FOR PETS” certification.

The certification, created in partnership with urban-planning organization, Nashville Civic Design Center, evaluates cities based on 12 traits of pet-friendly cities across four categories: businesses, parks, shelters and homes.

City officials may apply for the certification online at BetterCitiesforPets.com, showcasing their commitment to creating a pet-friendly community and fostering the well-being of all two- and four-legged citizens.

Cities that meet the criteria will receive:

• the “BETTER CITY FOR PETS” certification,
• a toolkit of assets and resources that can be used to spread the news to their community.
• In addition, all “BETTER CITY FOR PETS” certified cities will be recognized on the BETTER CITIES FOR PETS website so that community members can easily identify pet-friendly locations to live and visit.

All applicants will receive ongoing tips and recommendations from Mars Petcare, highlighting solutions and areas to continue to progress their pet friendly efforts.

Citizens looking to make their community more pet-friendly can also visit BetterCitiesforPets.com, where they’ll find a variety of resources outlining the importance of a pet-friendly community.