Can We Make It Easier to Have Dogs?

Mark Cushing of the Animal Policy Group recently raised a timely question: how can we reduce barriers to pet ownership in the U.S.? Writing for Animal Health News and Views, he identified three key issues—housing restrictions, access to veterinary care, and workplace limitations—as major obstacles, especially for Millennials and Gen Z.

Cushing pointed to successful policy efforts addressing pet deposits and low-income housing, and encouraged expanding such models. He also called attention to the need for more affordable, accessible veterinary care and urged employers to embrace pet-friendly policies or hybrid work models to support dog owners. With younger generations deeply committed to pets, he emphasized that now is the time to remove systemic barriers and secure a stronger future for the human-animal bond.