In an age where technology can often limit our ability to form meaningful human connections, our pet companions provide support and connection just by being around. We love our pets unconditionally, and that reciprocation can reduce stress and anxiety.
The Emotional and Physical Benefits of Having a Pet
According to the story by National Today, studies have shown that pet owners have a lower risk of heart disease. In addition to these physical health benefits, having a pet can be like having a furry therapist - they're loyal, giving us a feeling of companionship that is often priceless.
It seems like National Pet Day has been around longer than its 10-year history. With the help of social media and celebrities, pet lovers worldwide can mark this holiday together - from the U.S., the U.K., Ireland, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, Israel, Spain, Guam, and Scotland.
The History of Pet Celebrations Throughout Time
Celebrating National Pet Day each year is an opportunity to both appreciate the joy our fur family members bring us and to consider adopting animals in need of homes. A pet is for life, and the love and companionship of a four-legged family member can bring us health, happiness, and lots of cuddles.
Humans have been recognizing and honoring the love of animals for millennia. Archaeologists have discovered dog collars thought to be from circa 3500 B.C. in Mesopotamia, and the Phoenicians are credited with introducing domesticated cats to Europe in 900 B.C.
Colleen Paige Founded National Pet Day in the 2000s
In 1866, Henry Bergh founded the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals after witnessing a carriage driver in Russia beating a fallen horse three years earlier.
According to an article by NDTV, in the 2000s, animal welfare advocate and pet lifestyle expert Colleen Paige founded National Pet Day to bring attention to the needs of animals waiting in shelters to be adopted.
President Obama Joins in Celebrating National Pet Day
Celebrities across the globe have gotten on board with National Pet Day, including Taylor Swift, Ellen DeGeneres, Ricky Gervais, Cee Lo Green, Jimmy Fallon, and Willy Nelson.
President Obama also posted a pic of Bo, one of the two Portuguese water dogs who inhabited the White House during his time in office.
Read Also: Kids Are Closer To Pets Than Their Own Siblings: Study
Celebrate National Pet Day by Supporting Animal Shelters and Rescues
Going forward, let us use the holiday to remind us to take care of our current four-legged family members, who bring us so much love and joy while also supporting animal shelters and rescue organizations.
Animals need homes, and each day is an opportunity to use National Pet Day's motto, "Don't shop! Adopt!" to provide these dedicated animals the fur-ever home they deserve. After all, our pets deserve to be celebrated every day, not just on April 11, as also noted in an article by CNBC TV18.
Ultimately, this National Pet Day, it's important to remember the ongoing needs of many cats and dogs still waiting in shelters to be adopted
Related Article: Just 10 Minutes With Pets Can Significantly Relieve Stress, Study Finds
