TO Rome, among the autumn lights, it will open, from 24 to 28 September, The eighth edition of the Pet Carpet Film Festivalan international film event that celebrates not only cinema, but Above all, universal love for pets and wild animals. This year, moreover, the event takes on an even deeper meaning: it will remember, in fact, 800 years from the death of San Francesco d’Assisipatron of animals, also entering the context of the Jubilee, a moment of sharing, peace and fraternity.
Pet Carpet Film Festival, the event with a solidarity heart
Designed and directed by the journalist Federica Rinaudo, the Pet Carpet Film Festival is not just a cinematographic review: it is a collective embrace to all the pet and wild animals and the opportunity of a solidarity initiative that Promote a culture based on respect, inclusion, solidarity and sustainability towards all living creatures. The Festival will also involve school students, with educational activities and dedicated projections. The finals will be held on 27 and 28 September at the Casa del Cinema in Romein Largo Marcello Mastroianni, with free admission after the contribution of food and accessories for animals, which will then be donated to shelters and associations.
Don Cosimo Schena: a witness of hope for animals
To conduct this special edition, It will be Don Cosimo Schena, parish priest of the church of San Francesco d’Assisi in Brindisipsychologist and poet, known for his commitment to the protection of animals and for having accepted in his church in need and mistreated animals. Don Cosimo has become the most popular priest of Italy on social mediathanks to his motivational videos and his message of peace and brotherhood, which resonates in perfect harmony with the teachings of St. Francis. Access to the gala is freebut requires the donation of food and accessories for animals, which will then be delivered to the volunteers of some shelters. To participate, the seats are limited, you can consult the site www.petcarpetFestival.it.
The Pet Carpet Film Festival returns that brings stories of animals and humans to the screen, between affection, commitment and creativity. (Getty)
Humans and animals: universal bond that changes for each generation
The Pet Carpet Film Festival It is part of a wider context which celebrates love for animals as a universal bond. Research conducted by IPSOS for Purina on Italian owners of dogs and cats has shown that 87% of Pet Owner find affection and joy in the relationship with pets. However, the way in which this link is expressed varies between the different generations.
Gen Z: the “Emotional Dynamo”
Young people under the age of 27 live the relationship with their PET as an almost symbiotic bond. 96% consider them an antidote to solitudeand 32% expect to feel loved by their animal. For 71%, the dog or cat sleeps in bed, a sign of a very intense physical and emotional closeness. The pet thus becomes a confidant, a brother, a reassuring presence In an age often marked by emotional fragility. It is not surprising that 25% declare that the animal helps them manage daily stress, above the general average of 21%.
Millennials: the “parenting gymnasium”
Between 28 and 44 years old, pets they represent more a conscious and often autonomous choicea real emotional gym to learn the care and responsibility. 61% consider their animal “as a child”, and 23% associates the arrival of a puppy, a significant stop of one’s lifeparallel to other important events such as wedding or first home. Millennials tend to involve their animals in daily activities: from outdoor picnics to shared hobbies, creating a routine that integrates the pet into everyday life.
Gen x: the “Family Catalyst”
Between 45 and 59 years old, Animals are perceived above all as an enrichment of family life. A playmate, a comfort in monogenitorial families, or simply a presence that makes the house more alive. However, daily management is also perceived as a source of frustration: 43% say they do not have enough time to devote to their animal, a reflection of the condition of “Sandwich generation” divided between young children and elderly parents. Here, The animal is a “family catalyst”, which brings joy but also responsibilities.
Baby Boomers: the “Everyday Companion”
Finally, for those over 60, dogs and cats, above all, but any other pet, It is a daily presence that offers company, rhythm and sociability. 63% say that their animal helps them not feel alone, but the bond remains less anthropomorphized than the youngest: only 52% allow the animal to sleep in bed. Here the dog or cat becomes an “Everyday Companion”a constant in the daily routine that stimulates physical activity, social interactions and psychological well -being, without replacing human relationships.
A love that crosses all ages
Research confirms, in short, that Love for animals is a red thread that crosses all ageswith shades that reflect different needs, emotions and responsibilities. From the symbolic children of Gen Z and Millennials, to the daily companions of the Gen X and the Boomers, the link with animals accompanies everyone’s lives, making it full and more significant. “The differences we have found thanks to this investigation – explains Fabio Dei Esposti, CEO of Purina – represent a key insight, to also guide the reading of the company and, understand better and better, The dynamics for which animals are increasingly considered part of the emotional well -being of people».