How to Celebrate National Love Your Pet Day
By Chester Canonigo / February 20, 2025 / No Comments / Animal Factoids, Ball Python, Blog, Dogs, Fish, King Cobra, Ownership, Pets, Puppies, Red-Eared SLider, Snakes, Turtles, zoo
Because They Deserve It
Mahatma Gandhi once said: “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.”
Although it is meant to be a reflection for a whole population of people, we have to understand that this general behavior is brought about by each individual involved.
That means if everyone is mindful enough about their treatment of their pets, the entire populace benefits.
That’s why every February 20, we celebrate National Love Your Pet Day—a day dedicated to pampering our pets and acknowledging the joy they bring into our lives. Whether you have a playful dog, a curious cat, or an exotic reptile, this day is all about them.
When Did National Love Your Pet Day Begin?
National Love Your Pet Day doesn’t have a clearly documented origin like some major holidays, but it’s believed to have started in the United States sometime in the early 2000s as part of a growing cultural trend of celebrating pets as family members.
Like many pet-related observances, it most likely quickly gained traction through pet advocacy groups, online communities, and social media influencers who wanted to raise awareness about animal companionship, proper pet care, and pet adoption.
As people began to share pet stories and photos online, February 20 became the unofficial but widely recognized day to shower pets with extra attention.
It didn’t take long for people to start noticing this trend. Over time, in the mid-2000s, businesses and animal shelters joined the celebration—offering promotions, pet adoption events, and educational resources to highlight responsible pet ownership.
I believe it was in 2010 when National Love Your Pet Day went global. That’s also around the time I got involved with social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. It was these social media platforms that helped spread the message beyond the U.S.
It Started with Cats and Dogs
Almost everyone loves cats and dogs.
But the definition for “pet” no longer applies to just those two socially accepted animals.
These days, exotic pets such as reptiles, birds, fishes, insects, and arachnids are just as recognized as pet companions and as such are included in the scope of the National Love Your Pet Day celebration.
Each pet, regardless of type or species, brings its unique charm and requires specific care and attention.
20 Things You Can Do on National Love Your Pet Day (for All Kinds of Pets)
1. Cook or prepare a special treat
Homemade treats for your dog, a gourmet wet food mix for your cat, fresh fruit for your parrot, or live bugs for your gecko. As long as it’s safe and species-appropriate — go for it!
2. Upgrade their living space
Add a new hide or hammock in a reptile tank, give your hamster a new tunnel, or clean and redecorate your aquarium. Even small changes make a big difference.
3. Schedule a wellness check
Book that long-overdue vet appointment — even for reptiles and birds. Preventive care = real love.
4. Have a pet photo shoot
Use natural light, their favorite toy, and a few treats. Whether it’s for Instagram or just your photo album, it’ll be worth it.
5. Teach them a new trick or behavior
Dogs and cats aren’t the only smart cookies!
Rats, birds, ferrets — even snakes — can respond to training with repetition and positive reinforcement. Engage your pet’s mind by teaching them a new trick or command. It’s a fun way to strengthen your bond and keep them mentally stimulated.
6. Donate to a rescue or shelter
Preferably one that helps your kind of pet. There are shelters for rabbits, turtles, reptiles, and exotics too.
7. Let them try a new toy or enrichment
Puzzle feeders, shredding boxes, mirrors, snuffle mats, or scent trails — all help keep pets mentally stimulated.
8. Go on an adventure
Take your dog for a new trail walk, your cat for a supervised backyard stroll, or your snake for a bask in the sun (with you watching closely, of course).
Take your pet on a new adventure. Visit a different park, go for a hike, or explore a new neighborhood. New experiences can be exciting and enriching for both of you.
9. Give them a massage or grooming session
Brush your guinea pig, trim your lizard’s nails, or give your ferret a gentle rub-down. Aside from it being a great way to keep them looking and feeling their best, it strengthens your bond with them.
10. Make a custom nature playlist or white noise setup
Classical music calms many animals. Birds, for example, love sounds that imitate the rainforest or wherever they naturally come from.
Try it — your pet might have taste!
You might end up enjoying it just as much as they do.
11. Create a DIY hideout or play zone
Use cardboard, clean rags, or PVC pipes to make a cool new space for your rat, snake, or bunny to explore.
12. Post a tribute or story online
Share your pet’s adoption story, quirks, or just a cute photo. Use hashtags like #LoveYourPetDay or #SpoilYourPet to join the celebration.
13. Set up a playdate (only if safe and species-appropriate!)
Some birds, rodents, and reptiles tolerate or enjoy others of their kind — but always research species compatibility first!
14. Try a new treat dispenser or slow feeder
Perfect for animals that eat too fast or need stimulation — especially dogs, ferrets, and parrots.
15. Make a pet scrapbook or journal
Document your pet’s milestones — first cuddle, funny moment, weird behavior. Great for kids too.
16. Learn more about their natural history
Read up about your pet’s wild cousins. Understanding their origin helps you care for them better.
17. Do a deep clean of their habitat
Vacuum fur, wipe glass tanks, refresh bedding. A clean space is a happy place!
18. Include them in family bonding time
Watch a movie together, cuddle while reading, or let them sit beside you during merienda. It’s the simple joys that count.
19. Celebrate their unique traits
Does your cat love the sink? Does your iguana enjoy jazz? Let them do their weird thing today — all-out.
Me, I used to have a dog who loved climbing trees. I ended up creating small platforms that would make it easier for her to climb down instead of giving me a mini heart attack each time she leapt down from such great heights.
20. Last but Definitely Not the Least, Spend Quality Time Together and Give Extra Cuddles or Quiet Time (Whichever They Prefer)
Dedicate uninterrupted time to bond with your pet. Nothing beats quality time spent together with the ones you love. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a play session, or simply cuddling on the couch, your presence means the world to them.
On the other hand, some pets don’t want stimulation — they want peace. Respect their energy and vibe with them on their terms.
Just be there and spend as much quality time together with them as you can.
National Love Your Pet Day is more than just a celebration; it’s a reminder of the special bond we share with our pets. Whether they’re furry, feathered, or scaled, our pets deserve our love and attention every day.
So, take this opportunity to show them just how much they mean to you.
Note: Always consult with a veterinarian before introducing new activities or treats to your pet’s routine.
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