Pet Appreciation Week takes place in the first full week of May each year, and takes place from May 5 to 11 this year. People celebrate this day by raising awareness about pet care and pet-related health issues. Various activities are organized to teach people how to care for pets responsibly as well as fostering and adopting pets. People engage with their pets and bond with them through many different activities to make them feel loved, cared for, and appreciated.
History of Pet Appreciation Week
Pet Appreciation Week was initiated by the American Veterinary Medical Association in 1981. It aimed to raise awareness of the benefits of pets in our daily lives. In recent times, the hashtag #NationalPetWeek is used by pet owners on various social media platforms to honor and appreciate their pets.
The American Veterinary Medical Association aims to provide helpful tips and techniques throughout the week to help pet owners improve the quality of life for their pets. The association was established in 1863 and was originally known as the United States Veterinary Medical Association. Around 40 delegates belonging to seven different American states participated at a convention held in New York City.
The name was changed to the American Veterinary Medical Association in 1889. In the beginning, the AVMA had only 1,000 members, and membership was given to veterinary school graduates.
Today, it has over 91,000 active members that look after the health of different kinds of animals. Moreover, they also work for the betterment of other fields, including public health, food safety, and academics.
Pet Appreciation Week timeline
The world's first dog show is organized in Newcastle.
The Kennel Club is established to foster fairness in dog shows.
The National Institute of Health debates over the mental and physical benefits of having pets.
The European Convention for the Protection of Pet Animals is put into action.
Pet Appreciation Week FAQs
Is there a Pet Appreciation Day?
No, but there’s a National Love Your Pet Day, which is celebrated every February 20.
What day is National Pet Day 2021?
National Pet Day is celebrated on April 11.
Is this National Pet Week?
Pet Appreciation Week is celebrated during the first full week in May.
How to Celebrate Pet Appreciation Week
Teach your pet cool tricks
If you own a dog, consider enrolling it in dog training classes. Such classes can help your pet learn new skills and interact with fellow dogs. This will ultimately make your pet happier and more confident. These classes also require pet owners to be part of the entire training process. So if you don't get to spend much time with your dog, this is the perfect opportunity to do just that.
Surprise your pet with a gift
Everyone likes to receive gifts and pets are no exception. Make your four-legged friends feel special this pet appreciation week by taking them out to a pet store and buying them a new toy. It could be a new frisbee, a chew toy, or even a pack of its favorite pet food.
Whip up a fancy meal for your pet
Nothing tastes better than a freshly cooked homemade dinner. And there's nothing wrong with pampering your pet with a fancy meal every now and then. Check out pet recipes online or create something with your pet's favorite food ingredients. Make sure to avoid adding any ingredients that your pet may be allergic to.
5 Facts About CatsThat Will Blow Your Mind
They don't crave desserts
Unlike dogs, cats cannot taste the sweetness in food.
Hearing is their strongest sense
The hearing power of cats is five times sharper than that of humans.
They can rotate their ears 180 degrees
An average cat can have up to 32 muscles in each ear, which help them rotate their ears 180 degrees.
Yes, cats do sweat
Cats sweat from their paws and toes.
Lack of cognitive skills
Cats can’t interpret what humans say.
Why Pet Appreciation Week is Important
It fosters the mental health of pet owners
In today’s fast-paced life, people tend to feel more stressed and isolated. Pet Appreciation Week allows people to strengthen their bond with domestic pets. Spending more time with animals reduces stress levels and stabilizes hormonal balance. Pet Appreciation Week promotes mental health thanks to the comfort and companionship pets can provide.
It creates opportunities for socializing
As the digital age mostly keeps us glued to our computer screens at home, we miss out on socializing opportunities. Taking your pets for grooming classes or shopping allows you to meet new people and make friends. You get to exchange information and share experiences as pet-owners, which you would not have been able to do otherwise.
It allows identification and treatment of behavioral issues in pets
Some pets tend to develop behavioral issues when they do not get enough attention. Pet owners guilty of ignoring their pets for long can use this opportunity to reconnect with their pets and identify any poor habits or health conditions their pets might have developed. It could be the result of any trauma or changes in diet, household interior, etc. Such issues can be rectified before it is too late.
Pet Appreciation Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | May 1 | Sunday |
| 2023 | May 7 | Sunday |
| 2024 | May 5 | Sunday |
| 2025 | May 4 | Sunday |
| 2026 | May 3 | Sunday |
Log In With Google 