National Love Your Pet Day

National Love Your Pet Day History

National Love Your Pet Day encourages pet owners to show extra attention and pampering to their pets. The day serves as a reminder of the significant role pets play in our lives, emphasizing the joy and positive effects they have on our mental and physical health. Studies continue to highlight the positive impact of pet ownership on stress reduction, increased physical activity, and overall wellbeing. Furthermore, this day encourages the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for adoption.

While there isn't a clear history of National Love Your Pet Day's origin, it may stem from an increasing acknowledgment of the special bond between humans and animals. This day holds particular relevance in America. According to a 2019-2020 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association (APPA), 67% of U.S households, or about 85 million families, own a pet. This statistic signifies the prevalence of pet ownership in America and underscores the importance of National Love Your Pet Day.

Observance of National Love Your Pet Day in America often involves pet owners pampering their pets with new toys, a special meal, or extra playtime. Many take to social media to share images of their pets, enhancing a sense of community among pet owners and contributing to public awareness about animal welfare. Grooming services and pet supply stores also see heightened activity during this time as pet owners seek to spoil their pets. National Love Your Pet Day is observed annually in America on February 20th.

Facts about National Love Your Pet Day

• According to BBC news, the domestication of dogs can be traced back between 20,000 and 40,000 years ago. Scientists believe that these dogs were kept for hunting or herding purposes.
• Research shows that owning a pet improves mental and physical health, reduces stress, and can help children learn about responsibility and empathy.
• According to a 2021-2022 National Pet Owners Survey, 67% of U.S households owned a pet. The breakdown of pets owned was:
  1) Dogs - 69 million households owned dogs
  2) Cats – 45.3 million households owned cats
  3) Fish - 11.8 million households owned fish
  4) Birds - 9.9 million households owned birds
• According to the CDC, owning a pet can have several health benefits. The bond shared between people and their pets can lead to an increase in fitness, lower stress, and an overall happier life. Additional benefits of pet ownership include decreased blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and less feelings of loneliness.

In the News and Trending in the US for National Love Your Pet Day

Top things to do in the US for National Love Your Pet Day

• Show your pet affection. Take them for a walk, buy them a special treat, do something that shows them just how much you love them.
• Donate to reputable charities or organizations that help animals. Some suggestions are the Humane Society and PetSmart Charities.
• Watch a movie about the bond between people and their pets. Here are our suggestions:
  Marley & Me (2008)
  Babe (1995)
  Free Willy (1993)