Introducing Noble Alliance: Harnessing the Power of Pets
- Noble Alliance Association Geneva
- Feb 8
- 8 min read
THE ORIGINS OF A NOBLE ALLIANCE
Every remarkable journey begins with inspiration—a spark of light that illuminates the path ahead. For Noble Alliance, that light is Frehel —a 14-year-old golden retriever born in Paris who transformed the world of his pet parents and, through his presence, touched countless others.
For over a decade, he has been a certified visiting dog, bringing comfort to patients in healthcare settings, including those in their final days, offering a presence that transcends words.
Frehel stands as a symbol of the unfathomable alliance between pets and humanity.
A bond to nurture. A love to protect. A world to elevate- together.
WE ARE LIVING THE PET REVOLUTION
WELCOME TO THE MULTISPECIES FAMILY: A MEGA SOCIETAL SHIFT WITH HUGE AND STILL EVOLVING IMPLICATIONS
Over half of the world’s population now shares their home with a pet.[1]
For over 90% of global pet owners, pets are integral family members.[2]
Pets (dogs and cats) are thought living longer driven by veterinary health advances increasingly mirroring advances in human medicine.[3-5]
The so-called 'humanization' of pets reflects a shift in how families and communities are evolving, with multi-species families' needs becoming more complex, their roles changing rapidly, and their impact spreading globally, even in cultures and regions with little history of pet-keeping.[6-9]
DID YOU KNOW?
In a seminal paper published in the prestigious American Economic Review, Einav et al. (2017) uncovered striking parallels between human and pet healthcare spending—despite the US animal health sector operating largely without the safety net of developed pet insurance systems.[10]
YET SOCIETIES LAG BEHIND CHANGE
EVEN WITH THE PROGRESS OF THE PET REVOLUTION, THE BOND BETWEEN HUMANS AND PETS REMAINS EXCEPTIONALLY FRAGILE. MANY BARRIERS STILL THREATEN TO WEAKEN—OR EVEN BREAK—THIS INVALUABLE TREASURE, INCLUDING:
THE CONSEQUENCES ARE DEVASTATING
6.3 million companion animals enter U.S. animal shelters nationwide every year.[11]
920,000 shelter animals euthanized just in the U.S. (390,000 dogs and 530,000 cats).[11]
Globally, it is estimated that 1 in 3 pet is homeless.[12]
AN EXTRAORDINARY FORCE FOR GOOD
WE MAY NOT REALIZE IT, BUT THE BOND BETWEEN HUMANS AND ANIMALS IS AN EXTRAORDINARY, LIFE-CHANGING FORCE—PROVING TIME AND AGAIN THAT PETS ARE HUMANITY’S GREATEST ALLIES.
PET OWNERSHIP SAVES THE U.S. HEALTHCARE SYSTEM $22.7 BILLION EACH YEAR. [13] How? Pet parents often experience better overall health, fewer doctor visits, and reduced rates of obesity, infections, and mental health challenges—benefits that ripple across communities, touching children, seniors, and veterans. But their contribution doesn’t stop there. Pets, particularly dogs, horses, and other trained animals, take on roles of extraordinary importance.
THEY LEAD SEARCH-AND-RESCUE MISSIONS, finding the lost and saving lives.
THEY DETECT AND ALERT US TO DISEASES, from cancer and malaria to life-threatening conditions like diabetes and seizures.
THEY ASSIST PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES, empowering independence and dignity.
THEY PROTECT HOMES AND NEIGHBORHOODS, standing guard against crime.
THEY SUPPORT CONSERVATION EFFORTS, safeguarding endangered species and fragile ecosystems.…
AND MUCH MORE…
UNLEASHING THE POWER OF PETS
PETS ARE ESSENTIAL PARTNERS IN CREATING A BETTER WORLD. YET THE SYSTEMS MEANT TO SUPPORT THEM AND THEIR FAMILIES FALL SHORT.
Today's world demands a broader vision—one that recognizes the human-animal bond as a powerful force for good. This bond flourishes when nurtured across every touchpoint of our coexistence, from the homes and cities we share to the choices we make in care and the services that support us. By driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and investing in the right resources, we can transform the future—creating a world where pets and their families don’t just get by, but truly thrive.
We envision a world where pets and people thrive together shaping better outcomes for all.
Our mission: to remove the barriers that limit the power of pets and unleash their potential to build a better world.
A THEMATIC INVESTMENT APPROACH
Building on over three years of meticulous research, we have identified 8 key themes—pathways to impact—that address complex, interconnected challenges, aiming to create enduring value for pets, people, and communities. Each theme presents a unique opportunity to innovate and strengthen societal frameworks, fostering resilience and delivering sustainable outcomes.
Our approach is grounded in the belief that by engaging in these pathways, we can help shape a future where the human-animal bond enriches lives across the globe.
Through investment in collaborative partnerships, strategic engagements, and collective action, we seek to generate lasting impact that resonates across sectors and elevates both the human and animal condition for generations to come.
THE TIME FOR CHANGE IS NOW
IN ORDER TO TRANSLATE ITS MISSION INTO PRACTICE, NOBLE ALLIANCE INTENDS TO CREATE AN AGILE ONE-STOP-SHOP HUB FOR COLLABORATION.
EMPOWERING CHANGE THROUGH COLLABORATION: Leveraging Geneva’s international status, Noble Alliance intends to convene key stakeholders through targeted roundtables, workshops, and forums, aligning efforts to facilitate knowledge sharing and impactful dialogue.
SETTING THE STANDARDS FOR TOMORROW: Together with experts, industry leaders, and relevant stakeholders, we aim to develop consistent, actionable frameworks that address the needs of pets and people, fostering innovation and efficiency.
FUNDING SOLUTIONS THAT MATTER: We call upon investors, philanthropists, and changemakers to join us in establishing the Noble Impact Fund. This pioneering fund will provide the financial support and expertise needed to scale the most promising ideas and initiatives—ensuring that pets and people can thrive despite the rising challenges of our time and create more resilient communities.
WHY NOBLE ALLIANCE IS UNIQUELY POSITIONED TO DRIVE CHANGE
NOBLE ALLIANCE ADDRESSES A CRITICAL GAP IN THE INTERNATIONAL ECOSYSTEM BY INTRODUCING A PET-CENTRIC VISION ALIGNED WITH THE CHALLENGES OF OUR TIME.
DRIVEN BY PET-PARENTS: Our association is built on the love for pets, ensuring their needs and those of multispecies families and communities are at the heart of everything we do.
STRATEGIC LOCATION: Based in Geneva, the global hub for collaboration, we are uniquely positioned to connect and drive worldwide initiatives.
GROUNDED IN RESEARCH: Noble Alliance is the result of rigorous, independent research that informs our approach and solutions.
EXPERTISE YOU CAN TRUST: Our founders bring decades of experience in building excellence-based networks, fostering industry-academia collaborations, and driving cross-sector initiatives in education, health, private sector development, and post-emergency and conflict settings.
NEUTRAL AND INDEPENDENT: Incorporated in Geneva as a Swiss nonprofit association, we are politically neutral and religiously independent, allowing us to foster collaboration even between parties that might not otherwise work together.
AGILE ORGANIZATION: We minimize red tape and prioritize a culture of efficiency and responsiveness to ensure swift, impactful action.
WE HAVE ENTERED A RACE AGAINST TIME
WE ARE IN A RACE AGAINST TIME. THE ESCALATING CHALLENGES CONFRONTING BOTH PEOPLE AND PETS EMPHASIZE THE URGENT NEED FOR A PET-CENTRIC APPROACH TO GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT—ONE THAT STRENGTHENS OUR BONDS AND ENSURES BETTER LIVES FOR ALL.
AGING POPULATIONS: By 2050, 1 in 6 people will be over 65, increasing isolation and risk for multispecies families.[14]
URBANIZATION: 68% of the global population will live in cities by 2050, causing housing shortages and separating families from pets. [15]
CLIMATE CHANGE: by 2040 the number of countries facing extreme climate-related hazards is expected to rise from 3 to 65. [16]
GEOPOLITICAL TENSIONS: Over 100 million people are displaced by conflict. [17]
PUBLIC HEALTH CRISIS: by 2050, NCDs such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and respiratory illnesses could constitute 86% of the 90 million deaths recorded annually, [18] yet majority of top health risks are within individual’s control. [19]
ECONOMIC INEQUALITY: 44% of the global population – around 3.5 billion people – live today on less than $6.85 per day.[20]
HOW YOU CAN HELP
EMPOWERING PET FAMILIES AND STAKEHOLDERS THROUGH EDUCATION
How can we enhance access to educational tools and support networks?
SHARING KNOWLEDGE AND BEST PRACTICES ACROSS SECTORS
How can we work together to exchange knowledge, best practices, and innovative ideas that address emerging challenges and opportunities?
DRIVING FUNDING AND SUPPORT TO SUSTAIN DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION
Sustaining the growth of impactful initiatives requires strategic funding. Let’s explore how we can attract and drive funding to ensure the long-term success of pet-centric development in our societies? What role can we play in securing the resources needed to fuel innovation and impact?
CREATING PET-CENTRIC SOLUTIONS ACROSS SECTORS
The intersection of industries like travel, housing, and healthcare presents endless opportunities for pet-centric solutions. How can we collaborate to create seamless services that improve everyday experiences for pets, people and communities?
STRENGTHENING CRISIS PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE FOR PETS AND PEOPLE
Emergencies can disrupt lives, but we can make sure pets and families aren’t left behind. How can we develop collaborative solutions to enhance preparedness and response during crises?
EXPLORING NEW COLLABORATIVE OPPORTUNITIES FOR LASTING IMPACT
What new partnerships can we forge to amplify our collective efforts?
JOIN THE CONVERSATION
The opportunities to innovate, impact, and improve the lives of pets, people and communities are limitless. Whether it's through education, sharing best practices, securing funding, or developing pet-inclusive solutions, we need visionary leaders like you to help drive progress.
Reach out now and let's explore how we can create meaningful change together!
Contact us today:
Noble Alliance Association
C/o Veltica Finance Sàrl
Rue Rothschild 50
CH-1202 Geneva
Switzerland
REFERENCES
1. Mars, Ipsos. Mars Global Pet Parent Study.; 2024. chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.mars.com/sites/g/files/dfsbuz106/files/2024-10/Mars Global Pet Parent Study - FINAL.pdf
2. Human Animal Bond Research Institute, Zoetis. New Research Confirms the Strong Bond Between People and Pets is a Global Phenomenon, 95% Worldwide Say Pets Are Family. Press Release. January 16, 2022. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://habri.org/pressroom/20220116
3. Sexton CL, Ruple A, Akey JM, et al. How can we achieve more accurate reporting of average dog lifespan? J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2024;262(9):1-5. doi:10.2460/JAVMA.24.01.0068
4. St-Esprit M. Are dogs and cats living longer? - News - VIN. VIN News Service. September 11, 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://news.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=210&Id=11631825&f5=1
5. Zilien C, Pidlubnyy O. Pet longevity | Allianz Global Investors. Allianz Global Investors Insights. October 3, 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.allianzgi.com/en/insights/outlook-and-commentary/pet-longevity
6. Vera G, Gnes S. Petriots: From Home to the World. (Self-published, ed.). Amazon Italia Logistica S.r.l.; 2024. https://www.amazon.com/PETRIOTS-Journey-Letting-Animals-Fulfillment-ebook/dp/B0CHPMNLQY/ref=zg_bs_g_156477011_sccl_5/136-1464456-7072706?psc=1
7. Fox R, Gee NR. Changing conceptions of care: Humanization of the companion animal-human relationship. Society and Animals. 2016;24(2):107-128. doi:10.1163/15685306-12341397
8. Zilien C. Humanisation pet economy Asia | Allianz Global Investors. Allianz Global Investors. March 20, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://be.allianzgi.com/fr-be/fr-nos-publications/actualite-des-marches/humanisation-pets-asia
9. Rosero-Pena D, Van Kirk AH. The future of the global pet sector - GlobalPETS. Global Pets / Bloomber Intelligence. Summer 11, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://globalpetindustry.com/article/the-future-of-the-global-pet-sector/
10. Einav L, Finkelstein A, Gupta A, Einav A, Finkelstein L, Gupta A. Is American pet health care (also) uniquely inefficient? In: American Economic Review. Vol 107. American Economic Association; 2017:491-495. doi:10.1257/aer.p20171087
11. ASPCA. Pet Statistics | Shelter Intake and Surrender | ASPCA. Pet Statistics. Published online 2019:1-7. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.aspca.org/helping-people-pets/shelter-intake-and-surrender/pet-statistics
12. Mars. Our Pledge to Provide Help to Homeless Pets | Mars, Incorporated. State of Pet Homelessness Project’. 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.mars.com/news-and-stories/press-releases-statements/pet-homelessness
13. Clower TL, Thornton TE. The Health Care Cost Savings of Pet Ownership.; 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://habri.org/health-care-cost-savings/
4. United Nations. Leaving no one behind in an ageing world. Word social Report 2023. Report. Published online 2023:1-161. Accessed February 8, 2025. https://desapublications.un.org/publications/world-social-report-2023-leaving-no-one-behind-ageing-world
15. UNITED NATIONS - DESA. 2018 Revision of World Urbanization Prospects. United Nations; 2018. Accessed February 8, 2025. https://www.un.org/en/desa/2018-revision-world-urbanization-prospects
16. UNHCR. No Escape: On the Frontlines of Climate Change, Conflict and Forced Displacement | UNHCR.; 2024. Accessed February 8, 2025. https://www.unhcr.org/publications/no-escape-frontlines-climate-change-conflict-and-forced-displacement
17. UNHCR. A record 100 million people forcibly displaced worldwide. UNHCR News. 2022. Accessed February 8, 2025. https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/05/1118772
18. United Nations. Chronic diseases taking ‘immense and increasing toll on lives’, warns WHO. https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/05/1136832. 2023. Accessed February 8, 2025. https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/05/1136832
19. IHME. Risk Factors Driving the Global Burden of Disease | Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation.; 2024. Accessed February 8, 2025. https://www.healthdata.org/research-analysis/library/risk-factors-driving-global-burden-disease
20. World Bank Group. Poverty, Prosperity, and Planet Report 2024.; 2024. Accessed February 8, 2025. https://www.worldbank.org/en/publication/poverty-prosperity-and-planet