National Pet Month

May is National Pet Month

National Pet Month is observed in May. This month is a celebration of the benefits that pets bring to people’s lives, and vice versa. It is observed annually in the United States in May and during the month of April in the United Kingdom. Most importantly, National Pet Month aims to promote the benefits of pet ownership. It also supports pet adoption. In addition, it increases public awareness of services available from professionals who work with animals. And, further, it raises awareness of the role, value, and contribution to society of working companion animals.

Wear a black and white animal paw prints awareness ribbon to raise awareness of National Pet Month. You can find it on this website and let it encourages others to think about their role in this important month. Engrave your personalized pin with a name, date, or message. Or wear a non-personalized pin to show the importance of animals in your life.

Wear an Animal Paw Prints Awareness Pin

What Is National Pet Month?

Pets deserve celebration. In fact, there are about 80 million households in America that own a pet. And for all the unconditional love that pets offer, it’s only right that they should have their moment. This important awareness month celebrates the role of pets in human lives. During this time, you can show some extra love to the pets in your life.

When Is National Pet Month?

National Pet Month comes around every May.

If you are a proud pet owner, you might enjoy celebrating:

• National Pet Week (May 1-7)
• Purebred Dog Day (May 1)
• National Rescue Dog Day (May 20)

Oddly enough, National Pet Day does not happen during National Pet Month. It takes place on April 11 of each year.

How Was It Founded?

National Pet Month is a collaborative effort between the British National Office of Animal Health (NOAH), the Pet Food Manufacturers Association, and volunteers.

This awareness month is technically a non-profit organization seeking to bridge groups, people, professionals, and businesses to help animal charities become more functional. Today, they also advocate providing necessary resources for responsible pet ownership through their community and website. Many animal charities do voluntary work to rescue homeless pets. However, they need resources to carry out that work. Whether it is food, medical assistance, or shelter, the National Pet Month organization brings people together to help animals in need.

What Is the Purpose?

The primary purpose of this special awareness month is to highlight the role that animals play in our lives. It is a Thanksgiving celebration of sorts. It also promotes numerous pet-related causes.

Here are some of the ways to make a difference:

• Promotes and Encourages Responsible Pet Ownership

Some people have no idea what it takes to raise pets. They may take pets home impulsively, not knowing the responsibilities of having another living creature in the house. Raising a pet requires effort, time, and smart budgeting. National Pet Month promotes resources and materials for responsible pet ownership.

• Raises Awareness of the Benefits of Animals in the Home

Some people do not know what they are missing until they own a pet. Pets are great mood enhancers. They help the elderly go through loneliness or sick people during therapy. They offer unconditional love and quickly shift sadness to happiness.

• Introduces the Importance of Pet Care Specialists to More People

Some professional specialists can help you raise your pet properly. If you have a pet, we recommend that you make time to go to a veterinarian and establish connections with other local pet care specialists. They will help you when facing issues about the animal’s health and welfare. In addition, National Pet Month aims to educate owners on the importance of bringing their pets to specialists. Veterinarians, sitters, groomers, trainers, and breeders are just a few of the pet care professionals that owners utilize.

• Highlights the Value of Service Animals

Whether trained or not, service animals have significant roles in the lives of owners. Assistance animals provide support while working animals undergo training to perform domestic service. This month aims to raise awareness of the selfless support pets provide in therapeutic and working roles. This way, the pets have opportunities to receive the care, welfare, and love they need.

• Starts Fundraising for Animal Welfare Organizations

National Pet Month promotes groups and institutions that can support the welfare operations of charities for pets. Animals have welfare needs to be cared for: companionship, socialization, diet, shelter, and health. Pets that do not have owners lack this care.

Some charities deal with training pets. Others provide medical assistance to pets. All need funds and awareness to do their incredible work, and National Pet Month provides that awareness. The true significance of this month shows in the collective effort of pet owners and organizations to care for our furry friends.

Final Thoughts

National Pet Month is just one of the many occasions we have to celebrate our animal companions. There are many other holidays dedicated to pets, and we encourage you to celebrate them if you can.

Some other popular dates include:

• April 30 – National Pet Adoption Day and National Tabby Day
• August 26 – National Dog Day
• October 27 – National Black Cat Day. And, don’t forget, keep black cats indoors during the days and weeks around Halloween.
• October – National Animal Safety and Protection Month