July 22, 2026No comments

Royal Canin Brings "Puppy & Kitten Con" to Cebu to Empower New Pet Parents




Bringing a new puppy or kitten into the home is an exciting milestone, but it also marks a crucial phase where critical health decisions must be made. To help first-time pet owners navigate this pivotal period, Royal Canin Philippines held Puppy & Kitten Con on July 18–19 at Ayala Center Cebu. As the flagship event under the company’s Project Royal Beginnings, the convention aimed to provide accessible, science-backed guidance for families during their pet's essential Start of Life stage.

Empowering Cebu’s Growing Pet Community

Cebu was chosen as a key destination due to its expanding pet-friendly ecosystem—ranking #2 among Asia’s top pet-friendly destinations in 2025. With a rise in local adoption drives, pet-friendly venues, and community gatherings, the event arrived at a timely moment for local families.

"We chose Cebu for Puppy & Kitten Con because of its thriving pet-loving community and the growing role pets play in family life," said Gerard Poa, Market Head of Royal Canin Philippines. "By bringing Start of Life guidance closer to Cebuano families, we hope to support pet parents from the very beginning and inspire more conversations with pet communities across the country."

The event gave attendees direct access to veterinary experts in a welcoming, community-oriented environment.

"Having direct access to veterinary experts and practical conversations in one place makes learning about pet care far more approachable," shared Dr. Hannah Sayson, veterinarian and regional expert voice for the event. "Puppy & Kitten Con helps bring those resources closer to the community, making it easier for families to start their pet parenting journey with confidence."

Why the Early Months Matter



The early development window for young pets sets the foundation for their long-term health. Decisions surrounding proper nutrition, care routines, vaccination schedules, and vet check-ups occur rapidly—often before owners have established a routine with a veterinary professional.

Proper early-stage nutrition supports vital areas such as:

  • Immune system development

  • Digestive health

  • Healthy physical growth and resilience

Rather than overwhelming owners, Puppy & Kitten Con simplifies complex scientific concepts into everyday, actionable care steps.

"Our goal is to meet pet parents at the very start of their journey, when questions are plentiful and confidence is still forming," explained Gerard Poa. "The first months shape a pet's long-term health. By providing clear, science-based guidance early on, we help families feel supported and empowered."

Dr. Hannah Sayson added: "Early care isn't about getting everything right immediately—it’s about knowing when and where to seek guidance. When pet parents understand why early nutrition and routines matter, science becomes reassuring rather than overwhelming."

Promoting Responsible Pet Ownership Beyond the Event




Responsible pet care begins before problems arise. Grounded in Royal Canin’s core philosophy of Health Through Nutrition, the event reinforces the importance of preventive health measures—complementing local Cebu initiatives such as pet registration, vaccination programs, and responsible care advocacy.

Puppy & Kitten Con is designed not merely as a single weekend activity, but as an entry point for continuous, lifelong learning for pet owners across all life stages.

"The response from Cebu has been incredibly encouraging," concluded Gerard Poa. "We hope it serves as a starting point for reaching more pet communities across the Philippines and creating more opportunities for families to learn, connect, and support their pets' wellbeing."

About ROYAL CANIN®

Part of the Mars, Incorporated group, ROYAL CANIN® is a global leader in health through nutrition for cats and dogs, driven by its purpose: A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS. Founded in 1968 by French veterinarian Dr. Jean Cathary, Royal Canin formulates precise, tailored nutrition available through veterinary practices and specialty pet retailers worldwide.




By studying pet needs based on age, lifestyle, size, breed, and specific health sensitivities, Royal Canin delivers targeted diets while advancing sustainability and mutual benefit for pets, people, and the planet.