Pets are a beloved part of many families and bring joy and companionship to their owners. Whether you have a dog, cat, fish, or any other furry (or scaly) friend, there are a few special days throughout the year when you can celebrate your pet and show them how much you care.

Is Today Pet Day?

National Pet Day

One of the most well-known pet holidays is National Pet Day, which is celebrated annually on April 11. This day was created in 2005 by Colleen Paige, a pet and family lifestyle expert, and is intended to raise awareness about the importance of responsible pet ownership and to encourage adoption from animal shelters.

On National Pet Day, you can celebrate your pet in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

  • Take your pet for a walk or to the park.
  • Play with your pet and give them extra attention.
  • Give your pet a special treat or meal.
  • Take your pet to the groomer or vet for a checkup.
  • Donate to an animal shelter or pet rescue organization.
  • Volunteer at your local animal shelter or rescue organization.
  • Use social media to share photos and videos of your pet and use the hashtag #NationalPetDay.

World Animal Day

Another important holiday for pets is World Animal Day, which is celebrated annually on October 4. This day was created in 1931 by the International Society for Animal Protection (ISAP) and is intended to raise awareness about animal welfare and to encourage people to treat animals with compassion and respect.

On World Animal Day, you can celebrate your pet in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

  • Take your pet for a walk or to the park.
  • Play with your pet and give them extra attention.
  • Give your pet a special treat or meal.
  • Take your pet to the groomer or vet for a checkup.
  • Donate to an animal shelter or pet rescue organization.
  • Volunteer at your local animal shelter or rescue organization.
  • Use social media to share photos and videos of your pet and use the hashtag #WorldAnimalDay.

Additional Pet Holidays

In addition to National Pet Day and World Animal Day, there are a number of other holidays throughout the year that are dedicated to pets. Here are a few examples:

  • January 22: National Walk Your Pet Day
  • February 20: National Love Your Pet Day
  • March 23: National Puppy Day
  • April 26: National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day
  • June 24: National Take Your Dog to Work Day
  • August 17: National Black Cat Appreciation Day
  • September 16: National Dog Day
  • October 1: National Cat Day
  • November 1: National Pet Wellness Month
  • December 1: Giving Tuesday (a day to donate to animal shelters and pet rescue organizations)

No matter what pet you have, or when their birthday is, there's a day to celebrate them. So, take some time to show your pet how much you care and appreciate them.