National Pet Day

Dog and cat owners celebrate National Pet Day every day, but the official holiday is observed on April 11. Try to surprise your pet with a treat or a new toy. Show them extra attention and play more.

History

In 2006, animal advocate Colleen Paige created this holiday as a way to show gratitude to pets for the positive emotions they bring into our lives. She also highlights the issues surrounding homeless animals, such as dogs and cats in shelters. Paige encourages people to forgo professional breeders in favor of adopting a loyal friend from a shelter or rescue. Animals show great devotion, appreciate kindness and care, and form strong bonds with the people who become their loving owners. National Pet Day originated in the USA and has since spread to various European countries, Australia, and Israel.

Fun Facts

Spending time with a beloved pet has beneficial effects on human health: it reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, alleviates anxiety and depression caused by stress, lowers cholesterol levels, and stabilizes blood pressure.

Seventy percent of Americans are pet owners who are willing to spend significant amounts of money on pet care, quality nutrition, and regular medical check-ups.

A pet isn’t just a dog or a cat. Some people, not bothered by certain smells, keep guinea pigs. Rabbits often have their own rooms and can be trained. Reptiles make their homes in bathtubs or large aquariums, offering silent companionship. Birds, on the other hand, are happy to talk and discuss the day’s events with their owners.

Did you congratulate your kitty today? Take a picture and share photos of your happy, contented pet. Post it on your social media, or even create a separate account for your cat. After work, give your pet a belly rub and enjoy the melodious, gentle purring. Sounds like a pretty good day!

When is National Pet Day in 2025?

National Pet Day is observed on April 11 each year.

Observations