7 Tips for a Happy National Pet Day

Happy National Pet Day! It’s that one extra special day of the year to celebrate your furry friend. Of course, it’s no secret that every day is pet day for pet parents… But, there’s nothing wrong with today being even more special.

Especially, when it comes to our cats and dogs!

However this isn’t only a time to celebrate our own furry loved ones. It’s also a day to celebrate and contribute to those pets less fortunate, like those languishing in animal shelters. Let’s all do something this year to make it a happy National Pet Day for all pets, whether they have families or not.

Before we get onto ideas, here’s how this pawsome day was first started…

Happy National Pet Day on 11 April

Behind every good idea, often you’ll find a great person. As is the case for National Pet Day. This annual celebration was founded by animal rights activist Colleen Page, who came up with the concept in 2006. Since then it’s become a celebrated day around the world, on 11 April each year.

And it’s no wonder – who could resist getting into an extra-giving mood on behalf of our perky pets.

A one-woman wonder

Interestingly, Colleen is the founder of many of the world’s animal-centric days of the year. For example, she is single-handedly responsible for starting National Dog Day, National Cat Day, National Puppy Day, National Pet Day, and more!

The message behind National Pet Day is to remember those furry friends who don’t have their furever home. Cats and dogs just like yours, (or who could be yours) waiting to fill someone’s heart with love.

Pets in need are still pets indeed

New Zealand pet shelters are inundated with lost, abandoned and unwanted pets. This is why we’ve put together an entire guide on what and how to donate to animal shelters this year.

Looking for something exxxtra special to do with your own doggy or catkins instead? Here’s your list:

7 ways to have a happy National Pet Day

In this section we’ve rounded up seven different ways to celebrate your pet, including activities and great destinations for at home or away. We’ve also included safety tips to make sure your pet is protected while they enjoy this special day with you.

Here’s what’s on the list:

• Pet getaways
• Beach getaways
• Tip top treats
• The ultimate walk (long or short, no stress)
• Toys for pets, a little something special
• Movies (you betcha!)
• A softer landing

Once you’ve read this, be sure to check out 10 wonderful random acts of kindness for pet lovers too. Now onto the details of how to give your best bud a happy National Pet Day!

#1. On the road

If your animal companion likes getting out of the house, then a road trip could give you both the ultimate refresher. New Zealand is brimming with animal friendly getaways. Check out Pets Can Come Too and Bring Fido for rental options. And for dog friendly campsites, try Kiwi Camping or Trip Advisor.

Whether you’re planning to sleep under the stars or cosy up in a woodside cabin, be sure to read these tips for travelling with your dog or cat. We’ve also put together a pet travel guide for what to pack for pets. Also be sure to read our tips for travelling with pets to give your cat or dog a softer landing via the right prep.

#2. A day on the beach

Not to worry if you can’t get away for a whole weekend, or overnight. Sharing time bonding with your fur pal can also be done simply: on the beach.

After all, New Zealand is essentially a whole lotta island and a whole lotta peninsula. Which equals an infinite choice of glorious beach destinations. We’ve simplified the process by rounding up the top dog friendly beaches for Kiwi canine – click here!

You can also read about pet safety at the beach to keep them safe between the sun, sands and waves.

#3. Treats ahoy!

If you’re feeling squeamish when you hear the word ‘treat’, maybe you’ve heard how putting on the pounds can lead to diabetes in dogs and cats. Not to worry! Just like we can swap crisps and chocolate for walnuts and vegie nachos, there are equivalent ways to make your pet smile.

Read about National Pet Obesity Day for some excellent tips for how to treat your pet safely. And that said, you should check out some of our actual fantastic recipes, from dog birthday cakes to homemade cat treats. There’s a world of good food awaiting your pet friend.

And because this is all about how to have a happy National Pet Day, be sure to keep things that can poison your pet locked up!

#4. Walking with your BFF

Another ultimate outing in your pet’s eyes is simply going for a walkabout. This might be wandering ’round the block, in the park or even up a mountain. Although we usually think of dogs when it comes to walkies, they can also be something to do with your cat. That’s right, read about training a cat to walk on a lead (just don’t force your cat if they don’t want to).

Because dogs don’t ever need to be forced to take a walk, here’s a DIY dog walking checklist. Plus, a guide to choosing dog leashes and leads.

If thinking about walkies has you thinking about IVDD in Dachshunds or hip dysplasia in dogs at the same time, then not to worry. We know walking is not every pet’s cup of tea. This is why we’ve rounded up top ways for exercising dogs without walking.

#5. Give the gift of love (and a gift 😊)

Just like people get attached to phones, cars, and couches, pets also have their favourite items. Some breeds – we won’t name any names… ok we will – like the Persian cat simply hate it when you interfere with ‘their stuff’. Read about the Persian and different cat breeds and their personality quirks.

Anyways, where were we…? Oh yes! Giving your pet the perfect gift.

These Christmas gifts for cats and dogs are fabulous any time of the year. And because the seasonal temperatures are beginning to dip, here are some winter warmers like dog jackets to keep your pet cosy.

#6. Movie night with your pet

What’s better than date night? Movie night with your pet! We’ve rounded up the ultimate cat movie viewing list. We also have the best dog movies around. What better way to wind down a happy National Pet Day than with the silver screen?

After your pet is tired out and you’ve tucked them into bed, you might want to tuck into a good book. In which case, check out our holiday reading list for animal lovers.

#7. Pet insurance for a happy National Pet Day

Nothing beats good parenting. And other than loving your furbaby, nothing demonstrates good parenting better than protecting them well. It’s the perfect way to have a happy National Pet Day every day, knowing your pet baby is safe.

By safe, we mean that when they get injured or ill or need non-routine vet care for something else you can give it to them without first having to bargain with your bank balance.

We all know how expensive the bills for overnight hospital stays and surgery can be, and the last thing any pet parent wants is to have to question if they can afford to give their pet the medical attention they need when they need it most.

Besides, when you sign up to become a PD Insurance customer, we’ll give you one or more months of free cat insurance or dog insurance. Click below to get started now.