National Cook For Your Pets Day

National Cook For Your Pets Day is a chance to show our appreciation for our four-legged friends who love us unconditionally. On November 1, take a moment to spoil your pet with a homemade treat and show them some extra care.

History

It’s believed that dogs were first domesticated about 16,000 years ago, and since then, countless works and scientific studies have explored the best ways to feed our pets. A Roman philosopher even wrote a guide on feeding bones and meat to dogs.

In 1860, James Spratt, a salesman from Ohio, created the first dog biscuit. By 1907, manufacturers began making bone-shaped treats based on dogs’ preferences. In 1920, the first dry dog food appeared, followed by the first canned dog food with horse meat in 1922. In 1980, the US National Academy of Sciences published guidelines for pet nutrition.

Why We Love National Cook For Your Pets Day

• Pets help keep us healthy—they can lower blood pressure, encourage physical activity, and even support mental well-being.
• Cooking something special for your pet is a wonderful way to show your appreciation.
• This holiday is also a good reminder to think about healthy nutrition for both our pets and ourselves.

How to Take Part

Talk to your veterinarian about your pet’s diet—find out which foods can boost their health and which should be avoided. Common foods to avoid for pets include chocolate, nuts, onions, avocados, and dairy products; never give them alcohol. Start the day by picking up new dishes or bowls for your pet, and prepare a healthy meal such as rice with vegetables and a protein like meat. Dogs often enjoy fruit, while cats tend to prefer a good piece of meat.

When is National Cook For Your Pets Day in 2025?

National Cook For Your Pets Day is observed on November 1 each year.

Observations