The month of May is here. It’s also National Pet Month. Every May we recognize the joy our pets bring to our lives. So, why not pay it — or “paw it” — forward to our pets? Take time to celebrate the joy your pets bring you this National Pet Month.
9 WAYS TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL PET MONTH
So, in order to hopefully lessen your load, I wanted to share some of my research with you. Personally, I stay quite busy. When I compiled this list I kept “busy” individuals in mind. That’s why each idea below is simple and requires minimal effort on your end. At the same time, each idea is definitely heartfelt.
1.GIVE YOUR PET A MUCH NEEDED “PHOTOSHOOT” THIS NATIONAL PET MONTH.
We live in a photo sharing generation. Well, not just a photo sharing generation, a share everything general. We pretty much put our whole life on social media. If you’re a pet owner, I’m sure you have pictures of your pets all over your social media accounts.
Let’s be honest, though. Most of the pictures we take are when our pets are caught in the “act”. How about mixing it up a little? Give your pet the photoshoot they deserve.
2. ENJOY A DAY TRIP WITH YOUR PET
Now, not every pet is the queen or king of traveling. But, if you have a pet who is, definitely take the time out during National Pet Month for a quick trip. Even if it’s just a drive around town.
Let your pet enjoy the sights and sounds around them. If possible, this would be the perfect time to let them dip their toes in the water. That is, of course, that they are a fan of water.
3. SPOIL YOUR PET WITH A HOMEMADE MEAL
With day to day life, it’s hard to even spoil yourself with a nice homemade meal. But, I bet anything different from the norm will leave you with a tail wag or sweet purr. Plus, it only takes a few ingredients to make a great homemade meal for your pet.
Keep in mind, everything we eat isn’t safe for our pets. In fact, the ASPCA lists quite a few human foods that are dangerous to our pets.
Human Food Pets Should Avoid
- Alcohol
- Avocado
- Chocolate
- Coffee
- Caffeine
- Citrus plants
- Coconut
- Coconut oil
- Grapes
- Raisins
- Macadamia nuts
- Almonds
- Pecans
- Walnuts
- Onion
- Garlic
- Chives
- Excessive salt
- Undercooked meat
- Undercooked eggs
- Xylitol
- Yeast dough
4. INTRODUCE A NEW ACTIVITY TO YOUR PET
Most dogs enjoy a stroll with their owner. Even some cats like taking a nice walk on a leash from time to time. Why not mix your pet’s activity up some? Who knows, you may find something new that you like, too.
What you decide to do doesn’t have to be “extreme”. I’m not exactly suggesting “doggie yoga”. Although that does sound like great bonding. You could even do something as simple as switching up where you talk to your dog for a walk. Try a new trail. Visit a new store or restaurant that allows pets.
5. VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME AT A LOCAL ANIMAL SHELTER
In the United States alone there is estimated to be about 3,500 shelters. That number may seem like a lot. But, it’s not when you consider how many animals they take in on a yearly basis. It’s estimated that as many as 8 million pets come into animal shelters across the United States.
If we were to divide those 8 million animals across the 3,500 shelters available, that’d be over 2,000 pets in each shelter. As you probably know, there aren’t many shelters prepared for that type of load. Needless to say, shelter overpopulation is a huge problem.
Animal shelter staff carries quite the load every single day. That’s why they are so welcoming to volunteers. I know what you’re thinking. With life as busy as it is, how can you really find time to volunteer?!
Even just taking an hour of the month of May will make a huge statement for many shelter pets you interact with. As far as you know that interaction may be the most they receive the whole time they are at the shelter.
6. PROMOTE RESPONSIBLE PET OWNERSHIP WHEREVER YOU ARE
It’s up to us to be the voice for pets everywhere. That is, of course, because they don’t have their own voice to speak. Make your pet proud and speak to others about responsible pet ownership.
There are many valuable resources online that explain responsible pet ownership. If you aren’t much of a public speaker, make sure to find these and print them out. You can share them with other pet, or soon-to-be, owners.
7. FIND A SUPER DOG-FRIENDLY CITY NEAR YOU
There are a ton of cities that are considered to be super dog-friendly. Then even have restaurants that love your dog just as much as YOU do! As well as fun things for you and your dog to do together.
There are a lot of cities out there you and your pooch can go celebrate National Dog Month in. Plus, it will be a nice little getaway for you as well.
According to Dog Time, these cities include cities from Miami to Virginia Beach. Miami is actually #1 on the list. Other cities include Atlanta, Austin, Portland, and Raleigh.
8. SPOIL YOUR DOG WITH A MEMORY FOAM DOG BED
I can’t stress how AWESOME memory foam dog beds are. Well, honestly, I can’t stress how awesome memory foam is in general. Memory foam cushions joints and muscles. It also promotes energy and overall good health.
In the long run, buying a memory foam dog bed will save you money in the long run. That’s because beds like the PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed and Lounge are super durable. The Ultimate Dog Bed and Lounge even comes with a removable cover that is washable. That makes for super easy cleanup!
9. GET CRAFTY AND CHERISH YOUR PET’S PAW PRINTS FOREVER
Getting a copy of your pet’s paw print is a great way to have them near you until the end of time. Having a copy of your pet’s paw print is also a great way to always remember those who left paw prints in our hearts over the years.
