It’s hard to beat the unconditional love we get from our pets. National Pet Day is a chance to go the extra mile and show them how important they are.
When is National Pet Day?
Your pets might already be the focus of your everyday life, but on National Pet Day, April 11, we’re encouraged to give them even more special attention.
What is National Pet Day?
Created in 2006 by Colleen Paige, an animal welfare advocate and pet and family lifestyle expert, this holiday is dedicated to showing appreciation for our pets and shining a light on the many animals in shelters and rescues that are still waiting to find homes. [1]
How to celebrate National Pet Day
National Pet Day is all about doing a little something extra for all types of pets everywhere, including creatures that may not live with you. Here are some ideas on how to participate.
1. Walk your dog around the neighborhood with other furry friends
If you’re a dog owner, you can give your neighbors a chance to get involved in National Pet Day by organizing a group walk. After all, dogs enjoy simple pleasures: stretching their legs, sniffing new things and barking with their fellow canines.
2. Support local pet businesses and treat your pet to a new toy
To humans, toys are just playthings. To your pet, a new toy can be an absolutely mind-blowing experience. It can even be useful for you: A new toy can entertain them when you’re busy as well as provide you and your pet with a new way to play together. Regardless of its ultimate purpose, a new toy is one of the best tokens of appreciation you can offer an animal friend.
3. Visit an animal shelter to spend time with pets waiting for a forever home
One of the main reasons that National Pet Day was established was to support and bring joy to pets that don’t have a forever home. [1] You can make a positive impact on these animals by volunteering at a local shelter or just spending time meeting and playing with some of the pets.
4. Share your enthusiasm for your pets on social media
Pets deserve to be shared with the world, so use National Pet Day as an excuse to take (another) selfie with your pet. Or go above and beyond and schedule a full-fledged photo shoot. If you post photos on social media, a popular hashtag is #NationalPetDay. [2]
5. Donate food, toys or other resources to animal welfare organizations
Unfortunately, pets without a home don’t always have access to the same care, attention and resources as those that do. On National Pet Day, consider purchasing some new pet supplies for a donation to an animal welfare organization near you. Your support will make many animals’ lives better.
6. Give your pet a delicious pet treat
Any pet will appreciate a special tasty tidbit. There are plenty of store-bought options, of course, as well as recipes you can make at home. For a simple dog treat, you can mix natural peanut butter and a ripe banana, divide it into portions and refrigerate. Confirm that the peanut butter doesn’t contain xylitol, which is harmful to dogs. [3]
Show your love all year round
National Pet Day is an annual reminder that all animals deserve our respect and affection. If you’re looking for an additional way to express your gratitude for your pet, learn how pet insurance can benefit you and your animal.
Sources:
[1] “National Pet Day: What It Is and How to Celebrate,” betterhelp.com/advice/current-events/national-pet-day-what-it-is-and-how-to-celebrate/ (Accessed March 2025).
[2] “9 Best Ideas To Celebrate National Pet Day,” goodgoodgood.co/articles/how-to-celebrate-national-pet-day (Accessed March 2025).
[3] “Great Ways to Celebrate National Pet Day,” saffordvets.com/great-ways-to-celebrate-national-pet-day/ (Accessed March 2025).
Disclaimer:
The information included is designed for informational purposes only. It is not legal, tax, financial or any other sort of advice, nor is it a substitute for such advice. The information may not apply to your specific situation. We have tried to make sure the information is accurate, but it could be outdated or even inaccurate in parts. It is the reader’s responsibility to comply with any applicable local, state or federal regulations. Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, its affiliates and their employees make no warranties about the information nor guarantee of results, and they assume no liability in connection with the information provided. Nationwide and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2025 Nationwide
