National Pets in Film Day (June 19)
National Pets in Film Day celebrates the animals that have become stars of the silver screen.
Whether they’re making us laugh, cry, or cheer, pets in film hold a special place in cinematic storytelling.
From timeless classics like Lassie to animated favorites like Bolt, their roles have shaped the way we see animals in media.
This tribute recognizes their charm, loyalty, and emotional impact, both on screen and off. A great pick for fans of weird holidays in June.
When is the Holiday?
National Pets in Film Day is observed annually on June 19.
Who Invented It?
There’s no known founder, but like many niche holidays, this one likely emerged from fans or pet film enthusiasts who wanted to honor animals in cinema.
The History of the Holiday
The holiday acknowledges decades of storytelling shaped by animals. From early film dogs like Rin Tin Tin to CGI-enhanced animal leads, pets have gone from background props to leading characters.
As society’s connection with animals deepened, films began portraying pets as family members, sparking empathy and admiration among audiences.
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Top 5 Facts About the Holiday
Rin Tin Tin was rescued from a WWI battlefield and went on to become one of the first canine film stars.
The Homeward Bound pets had professional trainers and stunt doubles for complex scenes.
Lassie was played by a male dog named Pal, even though Lassie was female.
CGI now allows more expressive animal roles without compromising welfare.
The American Humane Association monitors film sets to ensure animals are treated ethically.
Activities to Celebrate
Movie Night: Watch Beethoven, A Dog’s Purpose, or Bolt.
Costume Fun: Dress up your pet as a famous movie character and share on social media.
Trivia Night: Create a pet-in-film quiz for family and friends.
Photo Challenge: Recreate movie posters featuring your pet.
Pet Adoption Drive: Partner with shelters to celebrate with a cause.
Craft Time: Make DIY movie-themed pet bandanas.
Outdoor Screening: Project Lady and the Tramp in your backyard with themed treats.
Social Media Posts: Share favorite movie pet memories using #PetsInFilmDay.
Top Films With Pets in Them
Here is a list of 50 classic films where pets play a central role, either through live-action, a combination of live-action/CGI, or even those with animation where the portrayal of pets is central to the story.
- “Lassie Come Home” (1943)
- “Old Yeller” (1957)
- “Benji” (1974)
- “Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey” (1993)
- “Beethoven” (1992)
- “Marley & Me” (2008)
- “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale” (2009)
- “Cujo” (1983)
- “Turner & Hooch” (1989)
- “101 Dalmatians” (1996)
- “My Dog Skip” (2000)
- “Because of Winn-Dixie” (2005)
- “Free Willy” (1993)
- “Babe” (1995)
- “Charlotte’s Web” (2006) – Live-action version
- “The Adventures of Milo and Otis” (1986)
- “Air Bud” (1997)
- “Snow Dogs” (2002)
- “Eight Below” (2006)
- “Hotel for Dogs” (2009)
- “A Dog’s Purpose” (2017)
- “The Call of the Wild” (2020) – CGI/live-action blend
- “A Dog’s Journey” (2019)
- “The Secret Life of Pets” (2016) – Mentioned for its theme, but primarily an animated film
- “War Horse” (2011)
- “Seabiscuit” (2003)
- “Togo” (2019)
- “The Incredible Journey” (1963)
- “White Fang” (1991)
- “Shiloh” (1996)
- “Balto” (1995) – A blend of live-action and animation
- “Lassie” (2005)
- “The Art of Racing in the Rain” (2019)
- “Bolt” (2008) – Primarily animated, but significant for pet-centric storytelling
- “Lady and the Tramp” (2019) – Live-action/CGI version
- “Must Love Dogs” (2005)
- “Marmaduke” (2010)
- “The Shaggy Dog” (2006)
- “We Bought a Zoo” (2011)
- “Marley & Me: The Puppy Years” (2011)
- “Beverly Hills Chihuahua” (2008)
- “Rin Tin Tin” (various films)
- “Hidalgo” (2004)
- “Dog Day Afternoon” (1975) – Features a pet’s central role indirectly influencing the plot
- “All Dogs Go to Heaven” (1989)
- “The Fox and the Hound” (1981)
- “Flicka” (2006)
- “Black Beauty” (1994)
- “The Doberman Gang” (1972)
- “K-9” (1989)
Related Holidays
National Take Your Dog to Work Day (Friday after Father’s Day): Let your own star join your work crew.
International Cat Day (August 8): Honors our feline companions worldwide.
National Answer Your Cat’s Questions Day (January 22): A quirky take on pet communication.
National Love Your Pet Day (February 20): Celebrates all pets and their unconditional love.
National Dress Up Your Pet Day (January 14): Time to turn your pet into a movie star.
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