Celebrate "Love Your Pet Day"

According to the recent survey done by the American Pet Products Association, 62% of households in the United States (or 72.9 million homes) have at least one pet. Most pet guardians consider their pets to be part of the family and often refer to them as their “children”.

Pets offer us loyalty, friendship and unconditional love. It has been scientifically documented that a pet’s extraordinary companionship, sense of humor and playful behavior reduces stress and anxiety, lowers blood pressure and enhances our overall health. Without a doubt, for our pets, every day is “Love Your Human Day”.

However, today, Wednesday February 20, we celebrate the official “Love Your Pet Day”. This is a special day that we have purposefully set aside to show our beloved animal companions how important they are to us. This distinctive pet holiday was actually created by humans to remind pet pawrents just how lucky we are to have those amazing furry, finned or feathered family members in our lives. 

It’s a day in which we are asked to set aside extra time out of our busy day in order to pamper our beloved pets, and shower them with an abundance of love and affection. Some folks even are offering suggestions to honor our animal companions to make them feel special. 

For dog people, make plans to spend more time with your dog today. Take him for an extra-long walk in the park or a romp with his canine companions at the local dog park. To keep his skin and fur in top condition, have him professionally groomed.  

For cat people, break out your kitty’s favorite toys and get fiercely involved in energetic interactive play. Hide some of her favorite treats around the house which will stimulate her “hunt for prey” instincts. And after playtime is over, turn on the radio to a classical music station and curl up with her for a relaxing nap. Those deep resonating purrs are just what the doctor ordered.

But as I think about this “holiday” I cannot help but wonder what would prompt the need for a “Love Your Pet Day”. Most of the pet people I know observe this auspicious occasion 24/7, 365 days a year. Isn’t loving our furry friends simply the cornerstone of the bond and deep relationship that develops between a pet and their guardian?

Since our pets celebrate “Love Your Human Day” every day, don’t you think it is incumbent upon us to reciprocate their adoration in much the same way? Tell us your opinion in a comment.