National Love Your Pet Day (February 20)
National Love Your Pet Day is celebrated every year on February 20, and honestly, it’s a pretty easy holiday to appreciate.
Whether you share your home with a dog, cat, bird, reptile, or something a little more unusual, this day is all about showing them a bit of extra love. Pets have a way of becoming part of the family, greeting us at the door, keeping us company, and somehow knowing exactly when we need comfort.
It’s one of those simple holidays that doesn’t need much planning, just time, attention, and a few belly rubs.
When is the Holiday?
It occurs annually on February 20th and is a day set aside for pet owners to show extra affection and care to their animal friends.
Who Invented It?
No one knows exactly who started the holiday. It likely popped up in the early 2000s, possibly from pet lovers or animal organizations wanting to encourage responsible pet care and celebrate the human–animal bond.
The History of the Holiday
While the holiday itself is fairly recent, our relationship with animals goes back thousands of years.
Dogs were likely the first domesticated animals, with evidence suggesting humans began bonding with wolves over 10,000 years ago. Cats followed much later, around 7,500 BC, when they started living near farming communities to hunt rodents.
Over time, pets shifted from working animals to companions. Today, they’re known for reducing stress, improving mood, and even helping with anxiety and loneliness. It’s really just a modern excuse to celebrate something humans have valued for centuries.
Top 5 Facts About the Holiday
- Around 70% of U.S. households own at least one pet (source: Vet Advantage)
- Dogs are the most popular pets in the U.S with 45.5% of homes in America having one.
- Cats come in a close second with 32.1% of the homes
- Spending time with pets can lower stress levels
- Many pets can recognize their owner’s voice and routine
Coloring Page
Celebrate National Love Your Pet Day with a free printable coloring page featuring happy pets, perfect for kids, classrooms, or a calm creative activity.
Activities to Celebrate
Make a special treat – Try baking pet-safe snacks using simple ingredients your pet loves.
Go somewhere new – Take your dog on a different walking route or visit a new park to change things up.
Have a mini photo shoot – Grab your phone and capture some silly or sweet moments together.
Extra grooming session – Brush their coat, clean their toys, or give them a relaxing bath.
Teach a new trick – Even older pets enjoy learning something new, and it’s great bonding time.
Just be present – Put your phone down and spend uninterrupted time playing, cuddling, or relaxing together.
**This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and a participant in other affiliate programs, I earn a commission on qualifying purchases.**
Links to Resources
- Explore a variety of pet products on Amazon.
- Download helpful checklists from the American Kennel Club.
- Access reliable resources at the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Related Holidays
- National Puppy Day: March 23 – Celebrates all things puppy
- National Pets in Film Day: June 19 – Famous animals from movies
- National Take Your Dog to Work Day: Friday after Father’s Day – A fun office-friendly holiday
- International Cat Day: August 8 – A day just for cats
- National Dog Day: August 26 – Celebrate man’s best friend
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