Norman Achieves Pet-Friendly Certification

Norman recently earned City Certification through the Better Cities for Pets program from Mars Petcare, showcasing the city’s commitment to creating a pet-friendly community. 

This certification recognizes Norman’s efforts to welcome pets, offer pet-friendly programs and amenities, and help keep people and pets together in tough times. By leading the way in pet-friendliness, Norman can make the benefits of pet ownership accessible to even more people and be even more attractive to an ever-growing group of pet-loving residents and visitors. 

“Norman is a city that loves its pets, and that speaks volumes about who we are as a community," said Norman Mayor Stephen Tyler Holman. "Being pet-friendly means we value compassion, connection, and quality of life—not just for our animals, but for the people who care for them. When we create parks, trails, and spaces that welcome pets, we’re building a healthier, more vibrant, and more connected Norman for everyone.”

To receive the certification, Norman met benchmarks across various traits that support pet-friendly shelters, homes, parks, and businesses. Norman has multiple programs and policies to support a pet-friendly community, including:

  • Spay/Neuter & TNR Programs – Low-cost spay/neuter through the SNIP Program and a robust Trap-Neuter-Return program for community cats with barn cat placements when necessary.
  • Adoption & Lifesaving Initiatives – A strong adoption program supported by regional and national rescue partnerships plus lifesaving transport flights that give hundreds of pets a second chance each year.
  • Pet Retention & Support – Pet food pantry access, vaccination clinics through the Petco Vaccinated & Loved program, and surrender-prevention counseling to keep families and pets together.
  • Volunteer & Foster Programs – A dedicated volunteer base that enriches the lives of shelter pets every day and a foster network that provides temporary homes for animals needing extra care, space, or socialization.

The Better Cities for Pets city certification launched in 2019 as an extension of the Better Cities for Pets program, which works with government, businesses and non-profits to help communities be pet friendly. It was created in partnership with the Civic Design Center, a leader in designing public spaces, and incorporates input from government and animal welfare experts.