National Pet Care for All Day on April 24 celebrates the efforts of organizations to make quality behavioral and medical care for pets accessible to all pets and their people. Essential dog expenses cost an average of $1,533 annually. National Pet Care for All Day is a day to remember that people should not have to choose between caring for themselves and their pets. Everyone, regardless of their housing situation, income level, race, spoken language, or access to resources, has the right to experience the joys of the human-animal bond. That bond should not be broken because veterinary care or positive behavior support are not available or affordable.
History of National Pet Care for All Day
In 2024, East Bay SPCA, based in Oakland, California, founded National Pet Care for All Day. The organization was established on April 24, 1874, and is proud to be one of the oldest shelters in the country.
Every person and their pet, regardless of their housing situation, income level, race, spoken language, or access to resources, has the right to experience the joys of the human-animal bond. Animal shelters across the country are developing Humane Advocacy programs, providing programs and services to help people and animals stay together. Pet Care for All Day aims to raise awareness and support to stay ahead of the curve and provide innovative solutions to keeping pets in their homes.
Roughly 38 million people in the United States are living in poverty, and with 66% of households in the country having a pet, many families are faced with the challenge of how to care for themselves and their pets. Humane Advocacy programs prioritize making meaningful connections and helping pet owners in communities find veterinary care, financial assistance, or social services they need when they are unsure where to turn to for help.
Keeping pets in their homes has the added benefit of lowering the volume of animals coming into shelters, helping to alleviate the overcrowding many shelters face. While it’s not the single solution to overcrowding, it’s an important component.
National Pet Care for All Day timeline
On April 24, the East Bay SPCA is established in Oakland, California.
The organization opens one of the nation's first veterinary departments to treat shelter animals.
They become the first animal shelter in the Bay Area to require adopted animals to be spayed or neutered.
The program is launched to provide low-cost/free services for animal care to those needing assistance.
The East Bay SPCA celebrates 150 years of compassion and innovation.
The East Bay SPCA establishes National Pet Care for All Day and the first observation takes place on April 24.
The Health Benefits of Owning a Pet
Keeping pets and people together benefits people’s health.
A study conducted by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) found that over 90% of the pet owners surveyed indicated their awareness of the health benefits of owning a pet and acknowledged it clearly affected the quality of their daily lives. Some other important statistics include:
- 31% improved physical fitness
- 76% reduced stress level
- 65% mental health improved
National Pet Care for All Day FAQs
What are the benefits of having a pet?
Pets alleviate stress, improve one’s mood and fight depression, reduce loneliness, improve one’s well-being, and provide long-term help for those with mental health challenges.
Why is it important to keep pets and people together?
According to a Pew Research Center 2023 survey, more than half of pet owners (51%) consider their pets to be as much a part of their family as a human family member.
How can affordable accessible veterinary care help people keep their pets?
A national study published in the ‘U.S. Open Journal of Animal Sciences’ showed that 40% of low-income owners who rehomed their pets reported that access to affordable vet care would have helped them keep their pets.
How to Observe National Pet Care for All Day
Share information on social media
Spread as much information as possible via social media using the hashtag#NationalPetCareForAll. Information about local pet food pantries, veterinary services, and pet training programs at local shelters is beneficial to all pet owners.
Volunteer to help an organization
Various organizations are working tirelessly for the well-being of pets. Volunteering to distribute pet food, provide pet services/supplies, or hold a food/supply drive will go a long way to help these organizations.
Make a donation
Donate to an organization providing emergency and/or ongoing resources to community members and their pets. Every cent counts and will be used for a wonderful cause.
Why National Pet Care for All Day is Important
It raises awareness about animal welfare
The day raises awareness about the well-being of all pets and animals in general. It highlights the significance of treating animals with kindness, respect, and compassion. By educating the public about animal welfare, National Pet Care for All Day encourages people to take action to improve the lives of their pets and of those in their communities.
It strengthens the pet-owner bond
Pets have a positive impact on our lives in terms of companionship, emotional support, stress relief, and overall well-being. National Pet Care for All Day recognizes this bond and strengthens it by encouraging people to prioritize their pets’ happiness and quality of life.
It promotes community involvement
National Pet Care for All Day is an opportunity for communities to come together to support pet owners in need, promote shelter adoptions, and provide resources for better pet care. It can foster a sense of community and collaboration in promoting the well-being of pets.
National Pet Care for All Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | April 24 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | April 24 | Thursday |
| 2026 | April 24 | Friday |
| 2027 | April 24 | Saturday |
| 2028 | April 24 | Monday |
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