If you find yourself worrying about your pet’s health as they get older, you’re far from alone. New research shows that concern about ageing, mobility and mental wellbeing is widespread among Irish pet owners — and many aren’t sure what practical steps to take.
A nationwide survey of more than 230 pet owners in Ireland, carried out in December 2025, found that 60% worry about age-related health or mobility issues in their pets. Arthritis and joint pain were the biggest concern, cited by 88%, followed by general mobility challenges (60%). Digestive problems (41%), urinary issues (39%) and weight changes (37%) also ranked highly.
Mental wellbeing is another major worry. 42% of owners said they’re concerned about anxiety or stress in their pets, yet 40% admitted they’re unsure how to manage it. Nutrition remains a grey area too, with just 28% monitoring their pet’s daily calorie intake — despite most owners saying long-term health is a priority.
The findings highlight a clear gap between concern and confidence, and that’s where Petmania’s Operation TransPAWmation comes in. Now marking its 10th year, the nationwide pet health and education programme aims to give owners clear, expert-led advice they can actually use.
Running throughout February and March 2026, Operation TransPAWmation focuses on five key pillars of pet wellness: Nutrition, Dental Care, Preventative Healthcare, Exercise & Play (Behavioural Health), and Grooming. Since launching in 2017, the programme has supported more than 12,000 pet owners across Ireland.
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This year’s campaign was launched on 4 February at Drury Buildings in Dublin, bringing together experts in animal health and behaviour. New ambassadors include Alice Chau, Clinical Animal Behaviourist, and Elise O’Byrne White, Veterinary Surgeon and Veterinary Director of the DSPCA/NSPCA, alongside Hannah Gibbs, Play and Enrichment Expert at KONG.
Speaking about the milestone, Emily Miller, Sales and Marketing Manager at Petmania, said: “As we mark the tenth year of Operation TransPAWmation, it’s clear that pet owners genuinely want to do the right thing, but many feel unsure about the everyday decisions that can make the biggest difference, particularly as pets get older.”
Alice Chau added: “Behavioural changes can often be one of the first signs that something isn’t quite right in a pet’s life. Helping owners recognise those early signals can significantly improve quality of life.”
Throughout the campaign, Petmania’s trained teams will offer in-store support nationwide, including personalised advice, weight checks and Body Condition Score assessments. Pet owners can take part by signing up for expert guidance and tips, or by visiting their local Petmania store.
