10 Ways to Celebrate National Pet Day
1. Make your pet feel extra special
National Pet Day is here! Celebrated on April 11th, National Pet Day was founded in 2006 by Pet & Family Lifestyle Expert, and Animal Welfare Advocate Colleen Paige. Its intention is to celebrate the joy that pets bring to our lives. Taking this a step further, she wants this day to be about recognizing the plight of many different kinds of animals that are awaiting a forever home.
2. Adopt a pet from your local shelter
Adopting a pet saves a life. No doubt about it. Providing you are ready to adopt, there is no better way to celebrate National Pet Day. Not quite ready to adopt yet?
3. Volunteer at your local animal shelter
It turns out that there are many different ways to volunteer for animal-related causes. Many shelters need volunteers to walk dogs, socialize with cats, or to help with cleaning. You can also think out of the box and share your office-related talents with the shelter, such as organizing events or providing with some type of administrative services.
4. Buy your furry friend a new toy
Who needs an excuse to ship for fun pet toys? Toys provide mental and physical exercise, and are important to your pet’s happiness. Why not try a food puzzle toy to give your pet a little challenge?
Your kitty is sure to enjoy a long, dangling feather toy, or a fresh new mouse to bat around.
5. Bathe and groom your pets
Now I know what you may be thinking, my cat or dog isn’t particularly fond of baths. However, the after effects are sure to be worth it. There is something especially wonderful about a fresh-smelling pup. Brushing your pet thoroughly is something they are sure to appreciate. Grooming your pet shows that you care.
6. Take lots of pictures!
Many pet owners don’t need an excuse to take sweet pictures with their pets. Today is the perfect day for it! Create new memories and post them to your Facebook page. On social media, you can use hashtag#NationalPetDay
7. Share some vanilla ice cream with your pup
Now, this isn’t something you would do every day. Exactly! What a perfect day to share some frozen treats with your pup.
8. Take your pet to an animal-friendly restaurant
Visit a restaurant with your doggie, and share a main entrée’! We think it’s a perfect day to feed your dog a nice human meal, (providing you avoid all potential harmful foods such as grapes, raisins, onions and chocolate to name a few).
9. Give your pet extra love
As a pet owner, you know the best way to do this. Maybe it’s a belly rub, or maybe it is just some extra attention. Spend some time taking a nap with your pets. The important thing is that your heart is in it.
10. Watch animal-related movies with your furry friends
Does one particular movie come to mind? Perhaps it is Marley and Me or Homeward Bound. Whatever you choose, take this time to snuggle up with your pets and be thankful that they are in your life.
The Bottom Line
Colleen explains, “I believe all animals are sentient beings, created by God, that deserve our love and compassion. No animal should ever have to suffer, especially at the hand of humans. Millions of unwanted animals perish every day, due to just that…being unwanted.”