National Pet Month celebrates the special bond we share with our animal companions throughout May. This month-long observance encourages responsible pet ownership, promotes adoption, and highlights the many benefits pets bring to our lives. Adopt a new friend, volunteer at a shelter, or simply give your pet an extra treat!
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Expected National Pet Month Deals
Throughout National Pet Month, expect retailers to roll out a variety of promotions. In past years, major pet supply stores like PetSmart and Petco have offered discounts on food, toys, and grooming services. Online retailers such as Chewy often feature flash sales and bundle deals. Smaller, independent pet boutiques may host local adoption events or special discounts on unique accessories. Brands like Purina and Hill’s Science Diet typically offer coupons or loyalty program bonuses. Keep an eye out for veterinary clinics providing discounted check-ups or vaccination packages. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as May approaches.
Platform Guide for National Pet Month
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalPetMonth. Share heartwarming photos and videos of your pets, showcasing their unique personalities and favorite activities.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalPetMonth. Create short, engaging videos of funny pet antics, training tips, or heartwarming adoption stories that go viral.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalPetMonth. Join local pet groups, share adoption drives, and post stories about how your pets enrich your family’s life.
National Pet Month Hero
Henry Bergh
National Pet Month timeline
The first Labradoodle (a mix between a lab and a poodle) was bred specifically to be hypoallergenic by an Australian named Wally Cochran.
Morris Frank from Tennessee and his German Shepherd that he brought back from a trip to Switzerland introduced the concept of “seeing eye dog” to the USA.
Upon returning to Spain, Christopher Columbus gifted Queen Isabella two South American parrots.
Chinese Emperor Ling Ti appointed his pets as senior court officials, allowing them special luxuries and bodyguards.
A human and a feline companion are buried together on an island in the Mediterranean.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Pet Month
Local businesses can celebrate National Pet Month by hosting pet-friendly events, such as ‘Yappy Hour’ at restaurants or pet photo booths at retail stores. Pet supply shops can offer special discounts on adoption kits or partner with local shelters for adoption days. Groomers might run a ‘Pamper Your Pet’ package, while veterinary clinics can offer free basic health screenings or educational workshops on pet wellness. Highlighting pet-friendly policies or products can also attract new customers and show community support.
National Pet Month FAQs
When is National Pet Month?
In 2027, National Pet Month will also take place throughout the entire month of May, from Saturday, May 1, to Monday, May 31. This provides ample time for pet parents and enthusiasts to participate in various activities.
How many households in the U.S. own pets?
The number of pet-owning households in the U.S. remains consistently high, with over two-thirds of homes welcoming at least one animal companion. This trend continues to drive a robust pet care industry.
What is the economic impact of the pet industry?
Consumer spending on pets continues to grow year over year, reflecting the increasing humanization of pets and a willingness to invest in their well-being. The industry’s economic footprint is expected to expand further in 2027.
What is the difference between adopting and buying a pet?
While both adoption and buying result in a new pet, adoption emphasizes giving a home to an animal in need and often includes initial veterinary care. Buying a pet allows for specific breed selection but requires careful research to ensure ethical breeding practices and the health of the animal.
National Pet Month Activities
Visit the zoo
Take an opportunity to learn about exotic creatures and their similarities to your own critter. If you can’t be bothered to pay the fee; go on a walk to enjoy the local wildlife.
Playing with your pet
You are their whole world. After a year or so, they will not be able to remember a time without you in their lives. Setting aside an hour of your valuable time to entertain your pet is a small sacrifice for their happiness.
Troll the Internet for Animal GIFs
It will probably suck up hours of your life, but the cuteness is worth it. Trust us.
Why We Love National Pet Month
It's socially acceptable bragging time
Let’s be real: most of us are determined to prove to everyone that our pet is the best out of all the animals we know. During National Pet Month, people are at least resigned to this inevitability. Hopefully this makes us marginally less annoying when we wax poetic about the color of our bunny’s fur.
Opportunities to meet animals and their people
Since everyone is out and about bragging about their pets, it would come as no surprise to see more exotic animals like monkeys or parrots as well as dogs frequenting public parks and other pet-friendly venues. Meeting other animal-lovers or owners out and about is another perk.
It’s a great excuse to spoil your pet
Like you need one, but it’s still nice to have an excuse to buy your pet presents both of you can enjoy together. So get that adorable sweater for your cat to hate or even that collection of multi-colored tennis balls for your dog to destroy.
Social Media Tips for National Pet Month
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