Let’s be honest, a quick scroll through your phone’s camera roll, and it is obvious: you celebrate your pet every day. Cute videos of Charlie, Max, Rocky or Teddy are all over your Instagram feed. How can you not share their adorable awesomeness?
Pets are part of the family and deserve to be showered with love. As a pet parent, you can add another reason to celebrate your furry (or feathered or scaled) friend with National Pet Day on April 11th.
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What is National Pet Day?
National Pet Day began in 2006. The day is about celebrating the joy pets bring us, but it is about something more. Founded by Colleen Paige, an animal welfare advocate, and pet and family lifestyle expert, she wanted to draw attention to the importance of adopting animals in shelters.
How Pets Make Life Better
Not that we needed to tell you, but pets are great for our mental health. You’re never alone when your pet is around. They’re always there to offer some unconditional love and loads of cuteness.
The pandemic has reinforced how pets improve our lives, especially those living alone. But, it is not just the companionship they offer, because there are multiple ways they help us live a healthier life.
For example, dogs are good for your heart health. Studies show that dog owners have a lower blood pressure than non-owners because of the calming effect of pets and because of those daily walks.
How to Celebrate National Pet Day
Here are eight ways you can celebrate the cat, dog, fish, bunny, hamster, gerbil, horse, snake, lizard or other awesome pet (or several pets) in your life.
Donate to Animal Shelters
This is what the day is all about. Please donate to your local animal shelter or Humane Society if you are able. The work they do to support pets waiting for adoption is invaluable.
They may be looking for supplies, as well, so donate items your pet doesn’t need anymore. Perhaps your dog has outgrown its crate, or you have extra cat supplies, just be sure to check in with them to find out what they need most.
If you want to take your support to another level, you can get involved as a volunteer. Many shelters are low on funds, so volunteers are in high demand!
You can also help spread their message. Get on social media and give them shares, likes, and retweets.
Help Control the Pet Population
If you have ever watched Bob Barker on the Price is Right, you’ll know what this one is all about. By spaying or neutering your cat or dog, you can do your part to control the animal population.
If you haven’t done so already, book your pet’s spaying or neutering appointment (while it’s on your mind). Be sure to check if their vaccinations are up to date, as well.
Teach Your Kids About Pet Care & Responsibility
Suppose you’re considering adding a pet to your family. In that case, pet day is a fantastic opportunity to teach your kids about the responsibility of owning and taking care of a pet. Teach them about different types of pets and how they all require various forms of care.
If possible, take a neighbour’s dog for a walk. Perhaps there is a senior nearby that would appreciate regular support dog walking.
Have some fun and end the day with a pet movie. There are fantastic animated options, like Lady and The Tramp or The Secret Life of Pets, and modern family-friendly movies featuring furry stars (did someone say, Air Bud?).
Host a National Pet Day Party
Invite local pets over for a fun day in the fresh air. Set out toys, food, and water, mark off digging stations, and hand prizes out to the most impressive pets in your neighbourhood.
Spoil Your Pet
Who doesn’t love treats! Today is a great day to go the extra mile. Bake some fresh treats for your pet. Look for a new recipe and spoil them!
Get Outside
If you want to add some outdoor fun to the day, head to a favourite hiking trail or take your dog to the off-leash dog park so they can celebrate the holiday with their four-legged pals.
Post a Cute Pic of Your Pet on Social Media
Obviously.
If you want to take your photos to the next level, consider booking a photoshoot with a local professional pet and family photographer. The weather may not be ideal this time of year, but you can always book a summer session.
When posting a pic, be sure to use the #NationalPetDay hashtag to spread the word. Shout out to your local shelter and remind people that furry friends are looking for their forever home.
Adopt a Shelter Pet
Okay, this is a big one, and you should not do it impulsively. But, if you have been considering adding a pet to the family, consider adopting from a local shelter or rescue. It is why National Pet Day exists, so it is a great day to do it.
A Day Worth Celebrating
Today is a day for celebration. Our pets transform our lives! You let them know you care for them every day. But today is perfect for doing something a little extra.
Our furry family members lower blood pressure, help with depression, and soothe stress, and they deserve to be celebrated! Happy National Pet Day!
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