No Pets Allowed – Is This Really a Society of Coexistence?
- KANON KITO
- 7月31日
- 読了時間: 3分
July 31, 2025
Kanon Kito
Osaka-Kansai Expo, started in April 2025, will focus on big global issues like climate change and aging. Its theme is “Designing a Future Society that Shines with Life.” It sounds exciting and full of hope. Recently, however, the organizers announced that pets would not be allowed inside the Expo site. This leads us to an important question: If animals that live closely with us are left out, can we really call it a society of coexistence?
They’re Part of the Family, Aren’t They?
In Japan today, pets are more than just animals—they are part of the family. There are about 15.9 million pet dogs and cats, more than the 14.3 million children under age 15. The pet industry is growing fast, reaching 2.3 trillion yen in 2023. More places like hotels and cafés are welcoming pets. For many people, living with animals is just a normal part of life. So when a major event like the Expo says, “No pets allowed,” it feels like a step backward. Pets are family for many people today. But apparently, “diversity” and “inclusion” don’t extend to those who share their lives with animals. It’s hard to talk about embracing differences while turning your back on a way of life that’s so important to so many.
Can we really talk about “inclusion” and “diversity,” while excluding something so important to many people?
It’s Hard — But That Cannot Be a Reason
Of course, there are real problems to think about. Allergies, cleanliness, noise, and safety should be considered. Cultural differences also matter. In some countries, it is normal to take pets on trains or into restaurants. In Japan, however, it’s still not usual.
But instead of saying, “too difficult,” shouldn’t we ask, “How can we make it work?” In Aichi Prefecture, for example, there’s a highway rest area with a dog run and pet showers. Some disaster drills now include pets, showing that change is already happening in Japan. These are small but meaningful steps toward a more inclusive society.
What Message Are We Sending?
The Expo is meant to show the future. But by banning pets, it may also send the message that only humans belong in that future. Is that really the kind of “coexistence” we want to design? Letting pets in is not the only way to show inclusion. But ignoring the topic entirely is also a choice—and a message. What we choose to include or exclude tells the world what we value.
Maybe There Is a Way
If the Expo truly hopes to present a “society that shines with life,” it might be worth asking: Where do pets fit into that future? Complete access may be unrealistic, but perhaps a more balanced approach is possible. For instance, allowing pets only in certain outdoor areas or designated zones could have been a practical compromise. With thoughtful design to separate spaces and manage risks like allergies and safety, inclusion and comfort need not be opposing ideas.
Another option might have been to introduce limited “pet-friendly days” during the Expo. Allowing pets on selected trial days would have offered a valuable opportunity to explore challenges and possibilities, rather than avoiding the issue altogether. Sometimes, progress begins not with sweeping changes, but with small, manageable steps.
Even if full access isn’t possible, what matters is the willingness to ask, “How can we include more forms of life in the picture of our future?” Because in the end, a society of true coexistence isn’t built only for humans. It’s a future where every life—and every relationship—has its place to shine.
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