Have you heard of National Pet Day? Every pet parent and their furry friend needs to celebrate this fun holiday. Like the many holidays devoted to celebrating humans, pets deserve a day that's all about them. National Pet Day is celebrated throughout many countries to recognize the close bond between pets and humans and encourage the adoption of pets in need of a home.

Want to take part in National Pet Day this year? Explore these easy National Pet Day activities to make the most of this celebratory day.

What Is National Pet Day?

National Pet Day was founded in 2006 by a fellow pet lover Colleen Paige. The holiday was designed to help remind pet owners to celebrate the connections with their pets. Every animal person knows the light and joy these furry friends can bring to our world. Whether it's providing comfort during hard times or making us laugh, pets are important family members.

In addition to serving as a celebratory holiday, National Pet Day helps raise awareness of the many pets needing a loving home. According to the ASPCA, over 6 million pets enter animal shelters across the U.S. each year.

While National Pet Day is a time to enjoy your current pet, pet owners can use their voices on this critical awareness day. Each year on National Pet Day, help raise awareness to encourage the adoption of pets instead of purchasing pets. 

When Is National Pet Day?

National Pet Day is celebrated on April 11 each year. However, many pet owners are unaware this exciting holiday even exists! With over 70% of U.S. households owning at least one pet in 2022, this vital holiday applies to a large group. Even pet grandparents can participate in spoiling a furry friend on this holiday!

National Pet Day Activities

When celebrating National Pet Day, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, this holiday is about showing extra love and affection for your favorite furry companion. As a pet parent, you know your pet and what they love most. Below are a few ways you and your furry family member can celebrate the holiday.

Special treats for National Pet Day

Celebrate your pet by giving them a special treat for National Pet Day. Whip up a vet-approved homemade dog or cat treat made from high-quality ingredients. Whether it's an all-natural jerky cat treat or a homemade peanut butter dog treat, there's no better way to celebrate the holiday than with a tasty, healthy treat. 

Donate to local pet organizations

While your pet is lucky enough to have a pet owner like you to celebrate National Pet Day, some pets have not found their fur-ever home yet. Many local pet organizations and shelters rely on donations to make animals comfortable as they await adoption. This National Pet Day, consider donating time or supplies (food, treats, blankets) to help support the pets in your area.

Prioritize preventative health for your pet

The best way to honor and celebrate your pet for National Pet Day is to prioritize its long-term health. Annual wellness exams are one easy way to help ensure your companion stays happy and healthy for as long as possible. With BetterVet, you can easily book in-home wellness exams that work for you and your pet's schedule.

Another way to support your pet's health is through superior nutrition. National Pet Day is a great time to ensure your pet eats a well-rounded diet with wholesome ingredients.

Share photos of your furry friend

One of the easiest ways to celebrate National Pet Day is to share an adorable photo of your loved one. Post a cute picture of your pet on social media for all your friends and family to enjoy. Whether it's an old throwback or a new photo, pet lovers never tire of seeing adorable photos fill up their social media feeds. To help raise awareness of this day, include #nationalpetday hashtags to gain visibility and encourage other people in your network to share photos of their furry friends.

Adopt another pet

Have room in your home and heart for another furry friend? If your situation allows you to do so, celebrate National Pet Day by adopting a buddy for your pet. However, if you have concerns about introducing a new animal to your home, talk to your BetterVet veterinary doctor first for tips and tricks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get the word out about National Pet Day?

Help celebrate national pet day by spreading the word amongst your friends, family, and fellow pet lovers. Share this day with your network and through social media platforms to encourage others to celebrate this exciting day with their furry friends.

To help promote the adoption of dogs and cats, repost social media posts from the local animal shelters in your region. This helps reach a wider audience and can help enhance the number of local adoptions in the area. 

How can I help my local animal shelter? 

Volunteering at a local animal shelter is a great way to give time to needy pets. Contact local animal shelters to see what type of help they need. The Petco Love shelter finder is a great place to start. Many animal shelters also keep an updated list of supplies and items they accept donations for. If your pet has beds, toys, or other things they no longer use, consider donating these to pets in the shelter.

Consult With a BetterVet Veterinary Doctor 

Want to learn how to keep your pet happy and healthy every day of the year? During your next BetterVet veterinary appointment, explore more ways you can protect your pet's health and celebrate them. Schedule an appointment today to connect with a BetterVet veterinary doctor via a video consultation or through a scheduled in-home visit.