8 Ways to Enjoy National Pet Day

National Pet Day (April 11) was founded in 2006 by Colleen Paige, an advocate for animal welfare and a devoted pet mom. She created National Pet Day to celebrate the joy pets bring into our lives! Here are some fun ways to celebrate National Pet Day in 2024 to show your dog, cat (or other animal companions!) how much you love and appreciate them.

Host a Pet Party

Gather with other pets and their parents in a park (weather permitting) or your home to enjoy some playtime, music and special treats.

Have an Adventure

If your dog (or adventurous cat!) loves the outdoors, take them on an extra long walk, go hiking on pet-friendly trails, or even take a trip to the beach!

Get Crafty

There are so many ways to combine your love of arts and crafts with your love of animals:

• Make a custom paint-by-number portrait (many online services will create one for you from a photo)
• Use a paw print mold kit to make a lasting impression
• Sketch or paint a picture of your pet
• Sew them a comfy blanket or pillow
• Create a backdrop (and maybe costumes!) and make your pet the star of a photo shoot
• Turn your pet’s photos in to art by uploading them to Canvas Zoo

Sign Up for a Subscription Box

Turn National Pet Day into a year-long celebration by signing up for a subscription service so your pet receives special treats, toys and goodies in the mail every month!

Make Homemade Treats

Use our Tails of Tastiness cookbook to whip up some extra-delicious treats your good boy or girl will savor, or keep things simple with homemade pupsicles (3 different options!).

Enjoy Some R&R

You don’t need to spend money or even go out of your way to show your dog or cat how much you care. What they crave most is one-on-one time with their favorite human! Shower your pet with extra love and attention and you’ll make their day. You can play their favorite music, play with their favorite toys, or pick a theme like spa day, movie night, or a calm and cozy cuddle session.

Remember a Special Pet

Honor the memory of a pet who’s crossed the Rainbow Bridge by framing a favorite picture, planting a tree or memorial garden, or making a donation to animals in need.

Volunteer or Adopt

What better way to commemorate National Pet Day than by adopting a beautiful soul waiting for their forever home! If it’s not the right time to bring a new pet into your life, you can still make a meaningful difference by fostering, or by volunteering some of your time at a local animal shelter.

If thinking about National Pet Day gives you the warm fuzzies, you’ll love our roundup of 15 heartwarming senior pet adoption stories!