The Next-Level Bond Between Families and Their Pets

Pets Date Night, Boehringer Ingelheim’s signature event, continues to celebrate the special bond between pets and their families while highlighting the importance of preventive care in keeping pets healthy all year round.

Now in its fifth year, Pets Date Night shines a spotlight on the joy pets bring to Filipino households and reinforces responsible pet ownership and preventive pet healthcare. This year’s event gave families more opportunities to learn, connect, and celebrate with their pets through educational talks, carnival games, free treats, a pet fashion show, veterinary check-ups, interactive activities, live performances, and a captivating light show.

Beyond celebration, the event also advanced animal welfare through partnerships with Animal Kingdom Foundation and CARA Welfare Philippines—organizations committed to community education, humane sheltering, and the adoption of rescued animals.

“Pets Date Night is more than a celebration; it’s a platform to champion responsible pet care, educate families, and nurture a culture where pets are truly valued,” said Dr. Michael Banawa, Head of Animal Health, Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines Inc. “At Boehringer Ingelheim, we are committed to supporting families in caring for their pets and building healthier, happier communities.”

Filipino families currently share their homes with an estimated 21.3 million dogs and 2.74 million cats, with nearly 48.3% of households caring for at least one companion animal. As pet ownership continues to grow, pets play an increasingly meaningful role in everyday family life, offering companionship, comfort, and joy.

Responsible preventive care

Ensuring their health through timely vaccinations, regular veterinary check-ups, and comprehensive parasiticides helps protect not only pets but also the communities around them. Responsible preventive care remains one of the most effective ways to keep pets healthy and happy.

At the heart of Pets Date Night were free veterinary check-ups and expert guidance, reminding families that year-round parasite protection supports pet well-being and contributes to safer communities. Dr. Ross Banayo, Technical Manager for Companion Animals at Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines, Inc., emphasized that regular parasite prevention with the most complete protection helps safeguard pets and prevent the spread of diseases in homes and neighborhoods.

“Healthy pets build healthier communities, and it all starts with preventive care,” Dr. Banawa added. “By prioritizing vaccinations, regular veterinary visits, and year-round parasite protection, families help ensure their pets’ long-term health, happiness, and well-being.”

Pets Date Night Highlights

Among the event’s highlights were the crowd-favorite pawricature sessions, which captured pets’ unique personalities through art, along with interactive carnival games. The returning Holitails Pawchella once again stole the spotlight, with pets strutting in bohemian chic and festive-inspired looks that showcased the strong bond between pets and their guardians. Live performances and acrobatic shows filled the venue with energy, laughter, and celebration.

Through Pets Date Night, Boehringer Ingelheim continues to champion responsible pet care and support Filipino families in building healthy, joyful, and lasting relationships with their pets. Because nurturing next-level bonds doesn’t happen in a single season, it starts with consistent, preventive care every day of the year.