About us
"Pets for Life" — Our name reflects our devotion to the idea that a pet is a friend for a lifetime.
Pets for Life, Japan was established in June 2000. We began our journey by helping dogs and cats who had nowhere to go. We were officially recognised as a Certified Non-Profit Organisation in 2021. Our operations are sustained entirely by the generosity of public donations and membership fees.
5 Key Pillars
Rescue
To help every animal in our care find their perfect “forever home,” we conduct behavioral assessments. We also provide dedicated post-adoption support, working heartfully to ensure that these animals are cherished and well-cared for throughout their lives.
New Life Stories
Meet our graduates and their new loving families.
Interact
Pets For Life, Japan Dr Dog Program
Our "Dr Dog Program" is a volunteer initiative where certified owner-and-dog teams visit facilities such as elderly care centers and educational institutions. These activities are commonly referred to as Animal Assisted Activity (AAA).
Our dedicated team consists of dogs and their owners—including rescue dogs rehomed through Pets for Life Japan, as well as community pet owners, all of whom have passed our certification tests. The program brings these certified dogs and their owners to a variety of locations, including elderly care facilities, disability support centers, public libraries, and educational institutions.
The heart of our Animal Assisted Activity is to deliver the inherent comfort that animals provide. We believe that physical contact, such as stroking or holding a dog, can alleviate stress and tension.
Please Note:
AAA differs from Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) in that it does not involve specific medical treatment plans formulated by professionals, such as doctors, behavioral therapists, or occupational therapists.
Nurture
Learning the Value of Life and Compassion Through Animals.
For over 20 years since our founding, Pets for Life Japan has operated on the core belief that the happiness of pets is directly linked to our own.
We recognize that the best way to prevent abandonment is to ensure animals are cared for responsibly, fostering a safe, joyful, and happy bond between pets and their owners. As part of our commitment to animal welfare, we provide educational programs for children and their parents to nurture this vital connection.
Inform
Our goal is to build a better society where humans and animals thrive together. We actively share this mission with the community through dog training classes for the general public, seminars, and street fundraising initiatives.
Promote
We offer advice and support for issues relating to dogs and cats. We also provide important information on animal welfare.
One-time Support
Temporary Support
Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference.
Ongoing Support
We would be grateful for your ongoing support as a monthly supporter.
Organization Overview
| Type of Organization | Recognized Non-Profit Organization |
|---|---|
| Name of Organization | Pets for Life Japan |
| Representative | Chairman |
| Names of Representatives | Koji Yamada, Tomomasa Arita |
| Establishment Date | June 1, 2000 |
| Date of Legal Incorporation | May 15, 2001 |
History
| June 2000 | Established Pets for Life Japan with five volunteers to consider the welfare of animals and humans. Started finding homes for animals that lost their way (rescue activities). |
|---|---|
| July 2000 | Began street activities to inform the general public about the current situation of animals kept by humans and the responsibilities of owners. Also started training classes for dog owners on positive reinforcement at the Hyogo Prefecture Animal Protection Center (educational activities). |
| September 2000 | Launched activities for children to learn the importance of life and empathy through interaction with animals (educational activities). |
| November 2000 | Visited the Osaka Prefectural Board of Education and Amagasaki City Board of Education in Hyogo Prefecture to prepare for animal welfare activities in schools from the 2001 academic year. |
| December 2000 | Began preparations to obtain NPO status to enhance the objectivity of the organization’s activities and operations and to gain broader support and participation from citizens. Visited the Hyogo Prefectural Government. |
| April 2001 | Started support activities for integrated learning in elementary schools to help children think more deeply about the importance of life throughout the year. |
| May 1, 2001 | Received NPO certification. |
| November 2001 | Started visiting nursing homes and children’s facilities with dogs that passed exams to promote the health of humans through contact with animals and to elevate the social status of animals (Doctor Dog activities). |
| July 29, 2021 | Received certification as a recognized NPO. |
