National Pet Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Pet Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Pet Day is celebrated on April 11th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Pet Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as captivating facts you may want to know about National Pet Day.

📅 What day is National Pet Day 2024?

In 2024, National Pet Day is on Tuesday, April 11th. It is the 2nd Tuesday in April; in 2024, it is Thursday. There are until the next observance. You also can discover all the exciting details and facts about April 11, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

While National Pet Day is recognized on April 11, as a pet owner, you understand that every day is a time to show appreciation for your beloved animal companion. Whether it’s hugging your hedgehog, snuggling with your bunny, or treating your cat to some catnip, these creatures bring us immense joy. However, the benefits of having a pet extend beyond just happiness. Over the last decade, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has collaborated on research that highlights the physical and emotional advantages of pet ownership. It has been found that having a pet can have positive effects on cardiovascular health, such as reducing cortisol, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels.

📜 National Pet Day History

According to animal welfare organizations, around 13 million cats and dogs end up in shelters each year in the United States. These animals come from various situations, such as being strays, being surrendered by owners who can no longer care for them, or being involved in legal proceedings. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals estimates that approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter shelters annually. However, there is some positive news as well, with 1.6 million cats and 1.6 million dogs finding loving homes.

What started as a holiday in the United States, known as National Pet Day, has now gained popularity in other countries such as the United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, Israel, Spain, Guam, Scotland, and more. Pet lovers around the world now celebrate this special day.

Even celebrities have shown their support for National Pet Day. Notable figures like Taylor Swift, Ellen DeGeneres, Ricky Gervais, Cee Lo Green, Jimmy Fallon, Willy Nelson, Kevin Bacon, Seth Myers, and Carrie Underwood have joined in promoting the importance of pets and raising awareness for the cause.

Social media has also played a significant role in spreading the joy of National Pet Day and increasing awareness. Former President Barack Obama, for example, delighted people from different political backgrounds when he shared a photo of Bo, one of the Portuguese water dogs that lived with him at the White House. Bo had been rehomed due to compatibility issues with an elderly dog in a Texas family.

✅ National Pet Day Facts

🔖 The Egyptians prized and protected cats
Death was the consequence, even if it was unintentional, for causing the demise of a cat.

🔖 The Egyptians were inconsistent with pet names
Egyptians gave names to their dogs, but they did not assign names to their cats.

🔖 The Egyptians grieved their pets publicly
In ancient Egypt, it was a customary practice for families to express their mourning differently depending on whether their pet cat or dog had passed away. If a cat died, they would shave their eyebrows as a sign of grief, whereas if a dog died, they would shave their entire bodies.

👍 Why Is National Pet Day Important

In the United States, 67% of homes have a pet. Every year, we spend nearly $75 billion on pet care and supplies.

According to a 2016 Harris poll, 95% of pet owners consider their pets to be members of the family. This is a seven-point increase over 2007.

Only a pet will chase a ball, pounce on a laser pointer, or nibble carrots out of your hand. Take pleasure in watching your hamster stuff its cheeks, your guinea pig chew up a TP tube, or your ferret frolic in its hammock. Your guinea pig will most likely pee in your lap, but it’s so adorable!

🙂 How To Observe National Pet Day

⚡ Pamper your pooch

⚡ Adopt a pet
Keep in mind that you have options beyond just dogs and cats. It’s easy to litter train house rabbits. Reptiles are typically quiet. And some birds can communicate with you.

⚡ Launch the next digital diva
What does your canine companion enjoy? Is that a mallard tuggy toy? A good belly rub? Get down on the floor and show that pooch some affection!

📅 When is National Pet Day?

View all 🔗 April holidays, including 🔗 Animal and other 🔗 Cat holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and cool facts about National Pet Day. So be sure to check back soon.