All American Pet Photo Day

July 11 is a special day for pet lovers across the country—it’s All American Pet Photo Day! The only rule? Your pet’s photo should have a patriotic flair. Whether you have a dog, cat, ferret, or any other beloved companion, dress them in stars and stripes, snap a few adorable pictures, and share them online.

History

In some ways, All American Pet Photo Day is similar to National Pet Day, which was founded by Colleen Paige. Humans have kept pets for centuries, often to satisfy the desire to nurture. In the past, dogs were symbols of wealth and status, especially among aristocrats who used them for hunting. By the 19th century, pets became more common among the middle class, and people began keeping a variety of animals—including reptiles and rabbits.

Pets bring emotional support and help ease feelings of loneliness. With the rise of social media, sharing pet photos has become second nature, and this holiday gives pet owners a perfect excuse to show off their adorable companions in patriotic fashion.

Interesting Facts

• Some animals are used in therapy—dogs visit children’s hospitals, while horses and dolphins are part of treatment for neurological conditions.
• All American Pet Photo Day is a chance to celebrate and thank pets for their unconditional love and companionship.
• Approximately 60% of Americans have pets. Of those, 44% have dogs, 29% have cats, and 17% have both.
• 10% of American households have aquariums, with over 140 million pet fish across the country.
• 5% of Americans keep reptiles or snakes as pets.
• In the 18th and 19th centuries, some newspapers printed obituaries for beloved pets.
• Each year, around 2.5 million animals are adopted from shelters. The average household spends about $1,200 annually on pet care.

How to Take Part

Celebrate by dressing your pet in patriotic gear and holding a red, white, and blue-themed photo shoot. Post your best shots on social media using the hashtag #AllAmericanPetPhotoDay. If you’ve been thinking about expanding your furry family, this is also a great day to visit a local animal shelter and adopt a pet in need of love and care.

When is All American Pet Photo Day in 2025?

All American Pet Photo Day is observed on July 11 each year.

Observations