National Pet Wellness Month is in October. The goal of the month is to promote pet health and wellness all year long. It’s also a time when people across the country volunteer for pet safety and support animal welfare organizations, such as low-cost spay and neuter clinics and pet vaccination clinics. Because pets are an important part of the family, we must educate ourselves on how to keep them happy and healthy. It is never too late to begin providing a healthy lifestyle for your pet, whether you have had them for a long time or are just bringing them home.
History of National Pet Wellness Month
By the mid-1900s, pets began to be seen as family members and companions rather than working animals. This shift in perspective had a significant impact on how pets were cared for and nurtured in homes across America. It also resulted in advancements in veterinary care, disease prevention, and pet treatment options. Annual veterinary checkups for pets are now routine in many households across the United States.
Purdue University launched PetFit, the first wellness program for pets sponsored by the National Research Council of the National Academies, in 2002. They provided an eight-week program with nutrition, behavior, and exercise counseling. The program’s goal was to improve pet health by offering dog weight management services.
According to the American Society of Veterinary Medicine, obesity is the most common nutritional problem in dogs and cats today (AVMA). In 2005, a Purdue University study found that overweight dogs who participated in PetFit lost 14% of their body weight in 12 weeks. A year later, a follow-up survey found that 74% of the dogs who participated in PetFit had maintained their new weight, though some owners reported that their dogs were still too heavy.
National Pet Wellness Month is an excellent time to provide our pets with the extra attention they require. Most of us have adopted them as members of our family, and it is only natural that we treat them as we would our blood relatives. So, this month, pamper your pet and show them how much you adore them.
National Pet Wellness Month timeline
Claude Bourgelat, of France, establishes the first veterinary school, which is said to have started the veterinary profession.
Pets are seen as family members and companions rather than working animals.
It is called PetFit and is sponsored by the National Research Council of the National Academies at Purdue University.
Purdue University conducts a study that reveals that overweight dogs who participated in PetFit lost 14% of their body weight over 12 weeks.
National Pet Wellness Month FAQs
How often should your dog get a wellness check?
All dogs need to get a physical check-up once per year. This routine exam is a good way to keep an eye on your dog’s growth and development and make sure he/she stays healthy.
What does a wellness exam consist of for dogs?
Your vet will ask you questions about your dog’s diet, exercise, thirst, breathing, behavior, habits, elimination patterns, lifestyle, and general health. During a physical examination, your vet will check various parts of your dog’s body.
What is the most overlooked pet care health issue?
Dental care. Roughly 80% of pets have some form of dental disease by the age of three. If dental problems are not corrected, serious consequences can occur.
National Pet Wellness Month Activities
Donate your time
Volunteer work is an important part of human wellness, and it applies to our four-legged friends as well. Volunteer at a local animal shelter or rescue organization. You'll help care for animals in need and find puppies and kittens looking for their forever home. If you don't have time to spend at a shelter, consider donating funds or supplies instead. Many shelters have a wish list of items they need.
Make new friends
Pet-human friendship is an unbreakable bond — just ask anyone who has a devoted canine or feline companion. Why not celebrate with other pet owners in your neighborhood? Organize a gathering where you and your pets can enjoy food and games with other animal lovers. You could also ask guests to bring donations for a local animal welfare organization, such as blankets, collars, or canned food.
Give your pet a wellness checkup
Your pet can’t tell you when he/she is experiencing a health issue; instead, you must rely on your observations to discern that your pet is under the weather. Usually, when symptoms get serious, the issue has been present for a while. This is why it's critical to give your pet a thorough examination from head to tail regularly.
5 Amazing Facts About Dogs
A song frequency only dogs can hear
Paul McCartney in his interview explained that one of the Beatles' songs, ‘A Day in the Life’ has a frequency that only a dog can hear.
Three dogs survived the Titanic sinking
When the Titanic sank, it was reported that three dogs had survived.
The tallest dog in the world
A dog named Zeus is 44 inches tall and is the Guinness World Record holder for the tallest dog.
30% of Dalmatians are deaf in one ear
On average, about 30% of Dalmatians are deaf in one ear and 5% are deaf in both ears. This is due to something called the extreme piebald gene, whereby dalmatians with larger dark patches are less likely to be deaf.
Dogs have three eyelids
Most dog owners never notice that their dog has three eyelids — it is called the 'haw' or nictitating membrane and is responsible for keeping the eye protected and lubricated.
Why We Love National Pet Wellness Month
Educate pet parents
Educate pet owners on the value of preventive care for their pets. One way to do this is by providing brochures about topics such as spaying/neutering, microchipping, dental health, and nutrition. You can also educate them through social media posts and email newsletters that provide tips on keeping their pets healthy.
Increase the number of healthy pets
It's an opportunity to increase the number of healthy pets by educating people about early detection and prevention. It's about ensuring that our pets receive the best possible care so that they can live healthier, longer lives with us.
Pet checks become cheaper
During Pet Wellness Month, many veterinarians offer discounted checkups and services. Taking advantage of these promotions will help you keep your pet in great shape throughout the year, allowing you to avoid more expensive medical expenses that can result from neglecting your pet's health.
National Pet Wellness Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | October 1 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | October 1 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | October 1 | Thursday |
| 2027 | October 1 | Friday |
| 2028 | October 1 | Sunday |
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